
Bulalo (Filipino Bone Marrow Soup)
This recipe uses Shank beef — specifically Whole Shank (3-5 lbs).
Learn more about all Shank cuts and cooking methods →
Prep
15 min
Cook
3 hrs
Total
3.5 hrs
Bulalo is the Philippines' beloved bone marrow soup — a clear, rich broth simmered from beef shanks until the marrow melts into the liquid. Simple vegetables let the beefy, marrow-enriched broth be the star.
What Ingredients Do You Need?
- 3 lbs Beef shank with marrow bones
- 2 ears Corn on the cob, cut into pieces
- 1/2 head Napa cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup Green beans
- 1 large Onion, quartered
- 1 tbsp Peppercorns
- 3 tbsp Fish sauce
- 10 cups Water
How Do You Make Bulalo (Filipino Bone Marrow Soup)?
- 1
Simmer beef
Bring beef shanks, onion, and peppercorns in water to a boil. Skim scum. Reduce to simmer for 2.5-3 hours.
- 2
Add corn
Add corn pieces and cook 15 minutes.
- 3
Add vegetables
Add green beans and cabbage. Simmer 5-8 minutes until tender. Season with fish sauce.
- 4
Serve
Serve in large bowls with rice on the side. Eat the marrow straight from the bone.
What Are the Pro Tips for This Recipe?
- 💡 The marrow is the best part — scoop it out with a small spoon and eat it with rice.






