Vegetarian Kare-Kare

Experience the rich, nutty flavors of Filipino comfort food with a plant-based twist in this Vegetarian Kare-Kare recipe. A vibrant medley of tender eggplant, crisp green beans, hearty bok choy, and banana heart is smothered in a luscious, peanut-infused sauce, made extra aromatic with freshly prepared annatto oil. Protein-packed tofu adds substance, while a simmer in vegetable broth ensures every bite is brimming with bold, savory goodness. This meat-free adaptation of the traditional Kare-Kare is easy to make and perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike. Serve this creamy, soulful stew over steamed rice for an irresistible, wholesome meal. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a flavorful way to enjoy this Filipino classic.

Nutriscore Rating: 83/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplant
• 1 bunch bok choy
• 200 grams green beans
• 1 small banana heart
• 300 grams tofu
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 5 cloves garlic
• 1 large onion
• 2 tablespoons annatto seeds
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil

Directions

Step 1

Start by preparing the annatto oil. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the annatto seeds and allow them to steep until the oil turns a deep orange color, about 5 minutes. Strain the oil and discard the seeds. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large pot or skillet, heat the remaining cooking oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 3

Cut the eggplant into bite-sized chunks and add them to the pot with the onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until they begin to soften.

Step 4

Next, cut the tofu into cubes and add it to the pot, stirring gently to avoid breaking them.

Step 5

Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the peanut butter until fully incorporated.

Step 6

Season the stew with salt and pepper, and pour in the prepared annatto oil.

Step 7

Trim the green beans and slice the banana heart into rings. Add them and the whole bok choy to the pot.

Step 8

Cover and cook the stew on low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to cook until tender.

Step 9

Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Step 10

Serve hot with steamed rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3465.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3291.9

Total Fat 210.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 38.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 35.9g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 6237.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 254.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 88.0g	0%
Total Sugars 100.0g
Protein 147.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2013.0mg	0%
Iron 36.3mg	0%
Potassium 9500.3mg	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: 54.1%

Protein: 16.9%

Carbs: 29.1%