What is this food?
Beef caldereta (about 100g). It’s a savory Filipino stew made with beef, usually cooked with tomato sauce and sometimes liver/vegetables, giving it a rich, hearty taste.
Why it matters to health
Beef caldereta is a good source of protein, which helps with building and repairing body tissues and keeps you full. In this 100g serving, it has 284 kcal and 24.9g fat, plus 315mg sodium—so it’s best to enjoy in reasonable portions, especially if you’re watching salt or saturated fat. The 1.1g fiber and 1.6g carbs are modest, so pairing it with fiber-rich sides (like vegetables and rice in the right amount) helps balance your meal. Everything in moderation works well here: enjoy caldereta as part of your 3 full meals and 1–2 snacks per day, not as a “daily staple” by itself.
Healthier tips
- Keep the portion: aim for about 1/2 to 1 cup caldereta per meal (depending on your appetite and rice amount).
- Balance the plate: add extra vegetables (e.g., carrots, bell peppers, leafy greens) to boost fiber and micronutrients.
- Watch sodium: if it tastes very salty, add more water or extra vegetables when reheating, and go lighter on salty sides.
- Choose the right carbs: pair with small rice serving or swap part of rice with more vegetables or a side salad.
- For healthier cooking: skim excess oil from the stew if it’s oily, and avoid frequent deep-fried add-ons.
Common Filipino dishes
Beef caldereta, Kare-kare, Menudo, Afritada, Sinigang na baboy