Short Description
Chicken Caldereta is a rich and savory Filipino stew featuring chicken simmered in a tomato-based sauce with potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, olives, and peanut butter. This version incorporates a few unique twists, including atsuete powder for color and a hint of spice from red chilies. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 & ¾ kilograms chicken, cut into serving pieces
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 180g tomato sauce
- 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), seeded and cut into chunks
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
- 9 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 laurel leaves
- Cooking oil, for frying
- Grated cheese, for topping (cheddar or quickmelt)
- Green olives, sliced
- 3 red chilies, sliced (optional)
- 3 tbsp pickle relish
- 2 cups hot water
- 1 tbsp atsuete powder (annatto powder)
- ½ cup peanut butter, unsweetened
Preparation:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce and pepper. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes. Reserve the marinade.
Step 2: Fry the Vegetables: Heat some cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Fry the bell peppers for about 1 minute until slightly softened. Remove from the pot and set aside. Fry the carrot and potatoes until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: In the same pot, sauté the garlic until lightly brown and fragrant. Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Add the marinated chicken and sauté for about 10 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
Step 4: Simmer in Sauce: Pour in the reserved marinade, add the laurel leaves, and tomato sauce. Sauté for a few minutes until the sauce is slightly absorbed. Add hot water, stir, cover, and cook for 15 minutes over medium-low heat.
Step 5: Add Peanut Butter and Atsuete: Add the peanut butter and atsuete powder to the pot. Stir well to dissolve the peanut butter and distribute the atsuete powder. Cover and simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 6: Add Vegetables and Relish: Add the carrots, potatoes, pickle relish, and red chilies (if using) to the pot. Cook for another 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 7: Finish and Serve: Add the grated cheese according to your desired amount. Stir and cook until the sauce has reduced and thickened. Add the green olives and bell peppers. Simmer for 2 minutes more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Caldereta recipe is a delightful twist on a Filipino classic, offering a symphony of flavors and textures. The combination of savory chicken, tender vegetables, and the creamy richness of peanut butter creates a truly satisfying dish. The addition of atsuete powder not only enhances the color but also adds a subtle earthy note, while the pickle relish provides a tangy counterpoint to the richness of the stew. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot over steamed white rice.
- Garnish with extra grated cheese and chopped green onions.
- Serve with a side of warm pandesal (Filipino bread rolls) for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken pieces.
- Adjust the amount of red chilies to your desired level of spiciness.
- If you don’t have atsuete powder, you can substitute with a pinch of paprika for color.
- For a smoother sauce, use creamy peanut butter.
- Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before adding the vegetables to prevent overcooking them.
Preparation Time:
30 minutes (including marinating)
Cook Time:
60 minutes
Total Time:
90 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 550-650 per serving
- Protein: 40-50g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion
Chicken Caldereta is a hearty and flavorful Filipino stew that’s perfect for a comforting family meal. With its rich tomato-peanut sauce, tender chicken, and medley of vegetables, this dish is sure to satisfy. This version includes a few simple tweaks to make it even more delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
A: Yes, you can substitute with beef, pork, or even goat meat. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is tender.
Q2: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Sauté the aromatics and chicken as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender. Add the bell peppers and olives during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Q3: What can I substitute for peanut butter?
A: If you have a peanut allergy, you can try using cashew butter or almond butter as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still add richness to the sauce.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Of course! Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, peas, or corn. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q5: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
