If you love to travel for food, then Bulalo (Beef Shank Stew) is a must-try dish that will make your heart and belly warm. Known for its rich, beefy broth and tender meat, this Filipino soup is most famous in Batangas and Tagaytay, where cool mountain weather makes it a perfect meal to cozy up with. Imagine sitting at a roadside eatery, enjoying the view of Taal Volcano, while savoring a bowl of steaming Bulalo—sounds pretty perfect, right?
A Little History
Bulalo is believed to have originated from the Batangas region, a province known for its cattle farming. Thanks to its abundant supply of high-quality beef, locals used the flavorful beef shanks and bone marrow to create this hearty dish.
Over time, the recipe spread to other areas, especially Tagaytay, a favorite weekend destination near Manila. Travelers from all over the country flock to Tagaytay for the scenic views but also for the Bulalo served in local restaurants—often considered some of the best you’ll ever taste!
Now that we’ve set the scene, let’s dive into how you can bring a taste of Batangas into your kitchen with this easy and delicious Bulalo recipe.
How to Make Bulalo: The Best Comfort Food
Now that you know a little about the origins of Bulalo, it’s time to whip up a bowl of this Filipino classic. The secret? Slow-cook the beef shanks to perfection so the meat and bone marrow melt in your mouth.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg beef shank (with bone marrow)
- 8 cups of water
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 5 cloves of garlic, smashed
- 2 ears of corn, cut into 3 pieces each
- 2 large potatoes, quartered
- Pechay or cabbage, green beans, and green onions
- 1 tablespoon peppercorns
- Fish sauce or salt to taste
- Optional: chili peppers for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Blanch the beef shanks (optional) – To keep your broth clear, blanch the beef shanks in boiling water for 5 minutes, then rinse them under cold water. It removes impurities and keeps your broth clean.
- Boil the beef – In a large pot, add the water and bring to a boil. Add the beef shanks and reduce to a simmer. Skim off any scum that forms on the surface. Simmer on low for 2 hours to tenderize the meat and extract the rich flavors of beef marrow.
- Add aromatics– After about 2 hours, toss in the onion, garlic, and peppercorns. Let everything simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Add veggies – Drop in the corn and potatoes and cook until soft and tender, about 20 minutes. Add the green beans, cabbage, or pechay in the last 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Season to taste – Add fish sauce or salt to your preference. You can toss in some chili peppers if you like a little heat.
- Serve – Ladle your Bulalo into bowls. Get a generous portion of tender beef, marrow, veggies, and broth. Garnish with green onions, and serve it with rice and a side of dipping sauce made from calamansi and soy sauce.
Bulalo Tips for Travelers and Foodies
- Where to Try Bulalo: If you ever find yourself in the Philippines, visit Tagaytay or Batangas for a bowl of authentic Bulalo. The cool climate makes it the perfect setting to enjoy this warm, hearty dish, and many local restaurants are known for their own take on the classic recipe.
- Pair it with rice: Filipinos often enjoy Bulalo with steamed white rice and dipping sauces made from calamansi (a local lime) and soy sauce. The citrusy dip perfectly balances the richness of the soup.
- Bulalo variations: Some versions include banana blossoms or saba bananas to add a hint of sweetness, while others use green beans for added texture. Feel free to experiment!
Why We Love Bulalo (And You Will Too!)
Bulalo is not just about the flavors—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re enjoying it in a roadside diner in Tagaytay or at home with your family, the dish brings comfort and warmth with every spoonful. The slow-cooked beef shanks release a rich, savory broth, and the marrow offers a buttery, indulgent treat. Plus, it’s packed with vegetables, making it a hearty, satisfying meal for any occasion.
This Bulalo recipe gives you a taste of Batangas right at home. So, next time you’re craving something warm, beefy, and nourishing, try the recipe—and let the flavors of the Philippines transport you to a place of comfort and joy!
Ready to bring the taste of the Philippines to your kitchen? Try this Bulalo recipe, and let me know how it turns out! Share your creative twists in the comments section.
Check out other recipes of popular Filipino dishes — Sinigang na Bagnet and Pork Adobo.
