Filipino Kare-Kare

Kare-Kare is a rich and savory Filipino stew, typically made with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables like eggplant, string beans, and banana blossom, all simmered in a thick, nutty peanut sauce. It is a celebratory dish often served at fiestas and family gatherings, originating from the Pampanga region of the Philippines. The stew is traditionally accompanied by a side of bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) to add a salty, umami contrast to its creamy base.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Kare-Kare is a high-protein and high-fat dish due to its oxtail and peanut sauce content, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the vegetables and thickeners. It is a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins from the meat, and provides healthy fats and some fiber from the peanuts and vegetables. A typical serving can range from 400 to 600 calories, depending on the cut of meat and portion size.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	520 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	36 g
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	680 mg
Iron	4.5 mg
Zinc	7.2 mg
Potassium	520 mg
Magnesium	65 mg
Phosphorus	280 mg
Vitamin B12	2.8 mcg
Niacin (B3)	8.5 mg
Vitamin A	150 mcg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Kare-Kare is unique because its peanut-based sauce is believed to have been influenced by Indian or Malay traders, showcasing the Philippines' historical trade connections. Nutritionally, the combination of slow-cooked collagen-rich oxtail and peanuts creates a dish that is both hearty and rich in minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.