Filipino Bulalo Recipe | Authentic Beef Marrow Bone Soup
Filipino Bulalo is a comforting traditional beef soup made by slowly simmering beef shank and marrow bones until the meat becomes tender and the broth turns rich, savory, and deeply flavorful. A beloved specialty of the Philippines, Bulalo is especially associated with the cooler highlands of Batangas and Tagaytay, where it is commonly enjoyed as a hearty family meal. The long simmering process draws flavor and richness from the beef bones while vegetables such as corn, cabbage, and potatoes add sweetness and texture. Served piping hot with steamed rice, calamansi, fish sauce, or chili, Bulalo is classic Filipino comfort food.
Cooking Method
- Place the beef shank and marrow bones in a large stockpot and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 5–10 minutes. Skim off the foam and impurities that rise to the surface.
- Drain and rinse the beef if you want an especially clear broth, then return the beef and bones to a clean pot.
- Add the fresh water, onion, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and simmer for 2–2½ hours, or until the beef is very tender and the marrow is soft.
- Add the corn and potatoes and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Add the carrots and green beans and cook for another 5–7 minutes.
- Add the cabbage or bok choy during the final 2–3 minutes so it remains tender and vibrant.
- Season the broth with salt and adjust the flavor with fish sauce if desired.
- Serve the Bulalo hot with steamed rice, calamansi or lime wedges, and extra fish sauce on the side.
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