As a peanut stew, kare-kare needs real peanut butter or fresh-ground peanuts with no added sugar, so the sauce reads nutty rather than candied. Give the oxtail hours at a low simmer until the collagen melts. Rush it and you get chewy, greasy meat instead of something silky.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep30 min
Cook180 min
Makes6 servings
CuisineFilipino
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
Contains peanuts
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for6servings
Oxtail
Collagen-rich and cheap; the long braise turns it silky, so don't substitute a lean cut.
Can you make Kare Kare in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Kare Kare? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Kare Kare ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Kare Kare gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Kare Kare vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
Community Notes
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