Easy Kansi Bulalo Recipe

Kansi Bulalo: A Delicious Filipino Comfort Food with Tender Beef and Tamarind Broth

Kansi Bulalo is a traditional Filipino dish from the Visayas region, specifically from Bacolod City. It combines beef shank and bone marrow in a rich, flavorful broth. The beef is simmered for hours until it becomes tender, and the marrow adds a creamy richness that makes the broth thick and hearty. The slow-cooking method ensures that the beef and marrow release deep, savory flavors, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.

What makes Kansi Bulalo stand out from the more common Bulalo is the addition of tamarind, or sampalok, which gives the broth a distinct sourness. The tangy flavor of tamarind balances the richness of the beef and marrow, making the broth less heavy and more refreshing. This sourness sets Kansi apart from regular Bulalo, which is known for its milder, simpler taste. The combination of sour and savory in Kansi Bulalo creates a unique flavor profile that many find irresistible.

In addition to the beef and marrow, Kansi Bulalo includes vegetables such as corn on the cob and cabbage. The corn adds a slight sweetness, and the cabbage provides a mild crunch, both of which complement the rich broth. Some variations of the dish also include banana blossoms, which add another layer of flavor and texture to the soup. These vegetables help round out the dish and make it even more satisfying.

Kansi Bulalo is perfect for cool weather, making it a favorite comfort food for rainy days or special gatherings. It is commonly served with steamed rice, which soaks up the flavorful broth, making each bite even more filling. The dish is often enjoyed with family and friends, bringing people together for a warm and hearty meal.

The appeal of Kansi Bulalo lies not only in its taste but also in the slow-cooking method that brings out the best in simple ingredients. It reflects Filipino ingenuity in turning local, accessible ingredients into a rich and complex dish. Whether served during special occasions or as a comforting everyday meal, Kansi Bulalo offers warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. It is a perfect example of Filipino cuisine’s ability to create bold, delicious flavors with straightforward ingredients.

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Here is the easiest recipe for you to enjoy:

Easy Kansi Bulalo Recipe

Recipe by Yummy FoodCourse: Soups, MainCuisine: FilipinoDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Kansi Bulalo is a flavorful Filipino dish with tender beef, bone marrow, tamarind broth, and vegetables. Perfect for comfort food lovers!

Ingredients

• 1 kg beef shank (with bone marrow)

• 500g beef brisket or beef ribs (for added meatiness)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 6 cups water (or adjust as needed)

• 2 stalks lemongrass (tanglad), pounded

• 3 pieces batwan (or 2 tbsp tamarind paste as a substitute)

• 3 pieces green chilies (siling haba)

• 1 tbsp annatto powder (achuete) dissolved in 2 tbsp water

• 1 tbsp fish sauce (patis)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Boil the Beef: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the beef shank and brisket, then let it boil for 10 minutes. Remove the scum that rises to the top.
• Simmer Until Tender: Add onions and lemongrass, then lower the heat. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is tender. (If using a pressure cooker, cook for about 40 minutes.)
• Add Flavor: Once the beef is tender, add batwan (or tamarind paste) and let it cook for another 10 minutes to release its sour flavor.
• Color & Spice: Pour in the annatto water and add the green chilies. Stir and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
• Season to Taste: Add fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the sourness or saltiness according to preference.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy it with steamed rice and a side of patis with calamansi for extra flavor.

You can add vegetables to your Kansi Bulalo to make it even more nutritious and flavorful. Some common vegetables that go well with this dish include bok choy, corn on the cob, and string beans. Simply add the vegetables of your choice during the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. Enjoy your enhanced Kansi Bulalo with added vegetables!

Other BEEF recipes may be found HERE.