Pinapaitang baka or beef stew (bitter beef stew) is a unique Ilocano cuisine that has a main ingredient of beef sirloin, beef liver and papait (bile liquid).

I know that this authentic dish is famous not only in Ilocos Region but also in the entire Philippines. But now that I’m based in US, it’s surprising to know that some Americans like our pinapaitan too! Filipino dishes have a way to win the palette of other races. Chicken pork adobo, sinigang na baboy, pancit, lumpia, egg roll and others to name the few that really wins the taste of other races. No wonder why because it’s really good! Naimas! 🙂 Masarap naman kasi talaga ang lutuing Pinoy di po ba?

Ingredients:
1/2 kg. beef sirloin – sliced thinly
1 medium sized onion – sliced finely
2 cloves of garlic- crushed and minced
1 finger of ginger – crushed
3 tbsp. of bile liquid if available
2-4 pcs. siling haba (chili fingers/banana peppers)
1 tbsp. patis (fish sauce)
1-2 tsp. rock salt
2 stalks onion leaves/spring onions – slice finely
2-3 cups water
2 tbsp. vegetable/canola oil for sauteing

Procedure:
1) Saute garlic and onion followed by the beef sirloin, beef liver and ginger.
2) Add the patis and continue sauteing until beef turns to light brown.
3) Add the water followed by the papait and siling haba.
4) Let it boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5) Your pinapaitang baka is ready to serve with steamed rice. Enjoy! 🙂