Kare-kare is a traditional stew consisting of meat such as tripe, pork leg, ox tail, goat or chicken, vegetables, and a thick, savory peanut sauce flavored with annatto seeds. Shrimp paste (bagoong) is often served on the side in order to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Kare-kare is traditionally cooked in a clay cooking pot known as palayok, and the vessel also acts as a serving bowl once the dish is properly cooked. Nowadays, it is often served at numerous Filipino festivities. Some believe that kare-kare has origins in the Pampanga region, while others claim that the name of the dish is derived from the Indian word curry, and that it was introduced to the Philippines by Indians from the Rizal province.

Over the years, the dish has evolved, so some cooks like to add chilis or green papaya for an extra kick, although the traditional kare-kare sauce should ideally be devoid of seasonings, spices, and chilis. Regardless of the origins of kare-kare, it is still a favorite dish among the natives.