Low Sodium Kare Kare

Indulge in the rich and hearty flavors of Filipino cuisine with this Low Sodium Kare Kare, a healthier twist on the classic peanut-based stew. Made with tender oxtail, creamy unsalted peanut butter, and a vibrant array of vegetables like eggplant, bok choy, and banana blossom, this dish offers the same comforting taste without the heavy sodium load. The use of annatto-infused water adds a natural reddish hue, while rice flour creates a luxuriously thick and velvety broth. Seasoned with low-sodium fish sauce and a touch of black pepper, this recipe ensures bold flavor while staying heart-friendly. Perfectly paired with steamed rice, this low sodium version is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy traditional Filipino flavors with a mindful approach to health.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:140 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Oxtail
• 1 cup Peanut butter, unsalted
• 2 tablespoons Annatto seeds
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 medium Onion, chopped
• 2 medium Eggplant, sliced into rounds
• 1 bunch Bok choy, trimmed
• 1 cup Green beans, trimmed
• 1 cup Banana blossom, shredded
• 2 tablespoons Rice flour
• 2 tablespoons Fish sauce, low sodium
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 8 cups Water

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot, place oxtail and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 1.5 hours or until the meat is tender. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface.

Step 2

While the oxtail is cooking, soak annatto seeds in 1/2 cup warm water for about 10 minutes. Strain and set the colored water aside, discarding the seeds.

Step 3

In a separate pan, heat a bit of oil and sauté the garlic and onions until the onions are translucent.

Step 4

Add the eggplant and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.

Step 5

Mix the peanut butter with 1 cup of broth from the oxtail pot, blending until smooth. Set aside.

Step 6

Once the oxtail is tender, add the peanut butter mixture, annatto water, and rice flour into the pot. Stir well to combine and let it simmer.

Step 7

Add fish sauce, ground black pepper, bok choy, banana blossom, and green beans. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 8

Adjust the seasoning to taste if necessary, avoiding additional salt to maintain low sodium content.

Step 9

Serve hot with a side of plain steamed rice, optionally garnished with chopped green onions or a few drops of low sodium soy sauce for additional flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(4144.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4153.0

Total Fat 273.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 84.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.6g
Cholesterol 780.2mg	0%
Sodium 4457.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 138.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 43.5g	0%
Total Sugars 48.6g
Protein 316.0g	0%

Vitamin D 72.6IU	0%
Calcium 878.0mg	0%
Iron 31.4mg	0%
Potassium 7053.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 57.5%

Protein: 29.6%

Carbs: 12.9%