Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 1 hr 30 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 45 mins | Servings: 6
🛒 Ingredients
✔️ 1.5 kg beef shank (or short ribs, cut into serving pieces)
✔️ 2 large tomatoes (quartered)
✔️ 1 medium onion (quartered)
✔️ 8 cups water
✔️ 2-3 tbsp fish sauce (to taste)
✔️ 1 large radish (sliced into rounds)
✔️ 1 bunch of string beans (cut into 2-inch pieces)
✔️ 1 large eggplant (sliced into rounds)
✔️ 1 bunch kangkong (water spinach, trimmed)
✔️ 3 pieces green chili (siling haba, optional)
✔️ 1 pack sinigang mix (Knorr or Mama Sita’s Tamarind Soup Mix) OR
✔️ 1 1/2 cups fresh tamarind pulp (boiled, strained, and mashed for natural sourness)
🔥 Directions
Step 1: Boil the Beef
1️⃣ Combine beef shank, tomatoes, onions, and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2️⃣ Lower to a simmer and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours (or 40 minutes in a pressure cooker) until the beef is fork-tender. Skim off any scum that rises to the top.
Step 2: Flavor the Broth
3️⃣ Add fish sauce and stir. Taste and adjust as needed.
4️⃣ Pour in the sinigang mix (or fresh tamarind pulp). Stir well and simmer for another 10 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
5️⃣ Toss in radish, eggplant, and string beans. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly tender.
6️⃣ Add green chili for extra heat (optional).
7️⃣ Lastly, add kangkong and let it cook for 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
🔥 Serve hot with steaming rice and enjoy the comforting tangy broth!
🔎 Tips for the Best Sinigang na Baka
✔️ For richer broth: Use beef bones for a deep, flavorful stock.
✔️ Want a healthier option? Add more veggies like okra or sitaw.
✔️ No tamarind? You can substitute with calamansi or green mango for natural sourness.
✔️ Faster cooking? A pressure cooker will tenderize the beef in just 40 minutes!
🍽️ What to Pair with Sinigang na Baka
For the ultimate Filipino meal, pair Sinigang na Baka with Tortang Talong (eggplant omelet). The smoky eggplant and fluffy eggs balance the sourness of the broth. Looking for a perfect side dish? Try Tortang Talong today!
Another great option is Chicharon Bulaklak, adding a crispy, savory bite to contrast the soup’s rich, tangy flavors. Craving crunch with your Sinigang? Check out Chicharon Bulaklak!
🛒 Best Ingredient Brands to Use
✔️ Sinigang Mix: Knorr or Mama Sita’s for a quick and authentic tamarind flavor
✔️ Beef: Go for well-marbled beef shank or short ribs for the best taste
✔️ Fish Sauce: Use Barrio Fiesta or Rufina for a deep umami flavor
✔️ Vegetables: Fresh kangkong and radish give the best texture and taste
📜 The History of Sinigang
Sinigang is one of the most beloved comfort foods in the Philippines, known for its tangy and savory broth. The dish dates back to pre-colonial times when early Filipinos used tamarind, guava, or green mango to sour their stews. While pork sinigang is the most popular, beef sinigang is a richer, heartier version loved for its deep flavors. Today, Sinigang remains a staple in Filipino homes, perfect for cold and rainy days!