Soup
Bulalo with Saba Banana (Beef Shank Soup with Sweet Plantains)
Original name: Bulalo with Saba Banana
About this dish
A soulful Filipino beef marrow stew, Bulalo gets a whimsical twist with the addition of sweet saba bananas. The rich, savory broth mingles with the caramel-like sweetness of the plantains, creating a bowl of pure comfort that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
beef shank
protein1.5 kg
Imperial measurement: 3.3 lbs
saba bananas
fruit4 pieces
corn
vegetable2 ears
bok choy
vegetable4 heads
onion
vegetable1 large
garlic
herb6 cloves
peppercorns
spice1 tablespoon
fish sauce
seasoning3 tablespoons
water
liquid3 liters
Imperial measurement: 12 cups
salt
seasoning1 teaspoon
Method
Boil the beef
15 minutesIn a large pot, combine beef shank, onion, garlic, and peppercorns. Pour in water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
Simmer the broth
2 hoursCover and let simmer gently for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the broth is rich. Add more water if needed.
Add corn and bananas
15 minutesOnce beef is tender, add corn and saba banana slices. Cook for another 15 minutes, until the bananas are soft but hold their shape.
Season and finish
5 minutesStir in fish sauce and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste. Add bok choy and cook for 2 minutes, just until wilted.
Serve hot
0 minutesLadle the bulalo into bowls and serve steaming hot. Enjoy the marrow from the bones as a treat!
Equipment
- [object Object]
Nutrition facts
Tips
- For a clearer broth, skim the foam patiently during the first 15 minutes of boiling.
- If you can't find saba bananas, use ripe plantains or even regular bananas, though saba are ideal.
- Serving with a side of rice is traditional and helps balance the rich broth.
Serving suggestions
- Serve hot in deep bowls with steamed rice on the side. Enjoy the tender beef and marrow right out of the bones.
Rate this recipe
No ratings yet. Be the first to rate it.
Recipe by
Liza Villanueva
Specialises in Filipino cuisineLiza makes ube halaya that has healed family rifts. She believes purple is a flavor.
Describe yourself in three words: Cheerful, whimsical, loves purple.