Description: A rich and flavorful Filipino stew, Chicken Caldereta is a comforting dish perfect for family meals. Tender chicken pieces are braised in a savory tomato-based sauce with vegetables, peanut butter, and a hint of spice, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This version incorporates atsuete powder for a vibrant color and an even richer taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 & ¾ kilograms chicken, cut into serving pieces
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 180g tomato sauce
- 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), cut into squares
- 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
- Grated cheese (cheddar or quickmelt), for topping (optional)
- Green olives, sliced
- 3 red chilies, sliced (or more, to taste)
- 3 tablespoons pickle relish
- 2 cups hot water
- 1 tablespoon 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 ground black pepper. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator. The longer the marination, the more flavorful the chicken will be. Reserve the marinade sauce after marinating.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Peel and cube the potatoes and slice the carrots. Cut the bell peppers into squares. Mince the garlic and chop the onion. Set all the vegetables aside.
Step 3: Fry the Vegetables: In a large, deep pot or Dutch oven, heat some cooking oil over medium heat. Fry the bell peppers for about 1 minute, then remove from the pot and set aside. Next, fry the potatoes and carrots until they are lightly browned on the outside but still firm. Remove from the pot and set aside. Frying the vegetables beforehand helps them retain their shape and texture during the stewing process.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken: In the same pot, add more cooking oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic until lightly golden brown and fragrant. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot and sauté for about 10 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
Step 5: Simmer the Caldereta: Pour the reserved marinade sauce into the pot. Add the laurel leaves and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine. Sauté for a few minutes until the sauce is slightly absorbed by the chicken. Pour in the hot water, stir, cover the pot, and cook for 15 minutes on medium-low heat, or until the chicken is almost tender.
Step 6: Add the Peanut Butter and Atsuete Powder: Add the peanut butter and atsuete powder to the pot. Stir well to dissolve the peanut butter and ensure the atsuete powder is evenly distributed, giving the stew a rich color and nutty flavor. Cover the pot and simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 7: Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add the fried carrots, potatoes, pickle relish, and sliced red chilies to the pot. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. If desired, add grated cheese according to your preference. Stir and cook until the sauce is reduced and thickened.
Step 8: Finish and Serve: Add the green olives and fried bell peppers to the pot. Simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove the pot from the heat. Serve the Chicken Caldereta hot with steamed rice.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Chicken Caldereta recipe is a crowd-pleaser because it combines savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors in a rich and comforting stew. The tender chicken, melt-in-your-mouth vegetables, and creamy peanut butter sauce create a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and delicious. The atsuete powder adds a vibrant color, making the dish even more appealing. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with steamed white rice or brown rice.
- Garnish with extra grated cheese, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.
- Pair with a side of warm pandesal (Filipino bread rolls) for dipping in the sauce.
- Serve with a side of pickled papaya (Atchara) to complement the richness of the dish
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
- Adjust the amount of red chilies according to your spice preference.
- If you don’t have atsuete powder, you can use a pinch of paprika for color.
- To thicken the sauce further, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the stew in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Leftover Chicken Caldereta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving size)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 35-45g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion
Chicken Caldereta is a beloved Filipino classic that offers a delightful culinary experience. With its tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and colorful vegetables, this stew is a true comfort food that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to indulge in the delightful flavors of Chicken Caldereta!
Questions and Answers About Chicken Caldereta:
- What is Caldereta?
- Caldereta is a Filipino stew made with meat (usually goat, beef, or chicken) braised in a tomato-based sauce with vegetables, potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and liver spread or peanut butter. It is a rich and flavorful dish with a slightly sweet and savory taste.
- Can I use other types of meat besides chicken?
- Yes, you can use other types of meat such as beef, goat, or pork. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some meats require longer braising to become tender.
- What can I substitute for peanut butter if I have a peanut allergy?
- If you have a peanut allergy, you can substitute peanut butter with liver spread or cashew butter. Alternatively, you can omit the peanut butter altogether, but the flavor and texture of the dish will be slightly different.
- Can I make this recipe spicier?
- Yes, you can make the recipe spicier by adding more red chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stew. You can also use chili garlic sauce for an extra kick.
- How do I store leftover Chicken Caldereta?
- Leftover Chicken Caldereta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
