Filipino Pancit With Beef

Introduction

Filipino Pancit with Beef is one of those dishes that can bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth to any table. Growing up, this dish was a staple during family gatherings, birthdays, and celebrations, and I’ve continued to love it well into adulthood. The savory flavors of beef, soy sauce, and tender vegetables combined with the satisfying texture of rice noodles make for a perfect meal that can feed a crowd or simply satisfy your craving for something hearty and delicious. My family loves it because it’s filling, packed with flavor, and easy to prepare, making it a go-to for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The balance of crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, and tender beef offers a variety of textures, while the soy sauce adds that deep umami flavor. For me, Filipino Pancit with Beef is the perfect meal to share with loved ones, and I’m thrilled to pass on this recipe.

Why You’ll Love Filipino Pancit with Beef

Filipino Pancit with Beef is an incredibly versatile and flavorful dish that brings together simple ingredients for a comforting meal. Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish has something for everyone. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of rice noodles, tender beef, and a medley of vegetables makes this a well-rounded, filling meal.
• Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe by adding or swapping vegetables based on what you have available.
• Flavor-packed: The soy sauce, garlic, and chicken stock infuse the dish with a deep, savory flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or celebrating a special occasion, this dish will feed a crowd and leave everyone satisfied.

Ingredients

To prepare Filipino Pancit with Beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 package (8.8 ounces) Thai Vermicelli rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 pound beef, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 3 green onions, diced
• Kosher salt and cracked pepper, to taste

These simple ingredients work harmoniously to create a delicious, comforting dish. The rice noodles act as the base of the dish, while the beef provides richness and depth of flavor. The vegetables add a crunchy texture and color, while the soy sauce and chicken stock provide that authentic umami flavor.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make this Filipino Pancit with Beef:

1. Soak the Noodles:
   • Begin by soaking the rice noodles according to the package directions. This usually involves placing them in warm water for about 20-30 minutes or until they soften. Once they’re softened, drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • While the noodles are soaking, slice the beef into bite-sized pieces. Dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic. Slice the carrots and chop the green onions. Prepare all your ingredients so everything is ready to go.
3. Heat the Oil:
   • In a wok or large sauté pan, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot before adding the beef to ensure it browns nicely.
4. Cook the Beef:
   • Add the sliced beef to the pan, along with the diced onion, minced garlic, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the beef is browned and the onions have softened. Season with kosher salt and cracked pepper to taste.
5. Add Stock and Veggies:
   • Pour in the chicken stock and stir to combine. Then, add the shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, and diced green onions. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the stock has been absorbed slightly.
6. Combine with Noodles:
   • Once the vegetables are tender, add the soaked rice noodles to the beef and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together to combine well. Make sure the noodles are coated with the flavorful sauce and that the beef and vegetables are evenly distributed.
7. Serve:
   • Once everything is well-combined, serve the pancit hot. You can garnish with additional green onions or serve with a side of lemon wedges for added freshness.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Filipino Pancit with Beef is a hearty dish that is both filling and nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutrition facts per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 350-400
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 20g

Please note that these values may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.

How to Serve

When serving Filipino Pancit with Beef, here are some great ideas:

• Garnish with green onions for extra freshness and color.
• Serve with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the dish for added brightness.
• Pair with a side of crispy fried spring rolls or lumpia for a full Filipino meal experience.
• Top with fried garlic for a burst of flavor and texture.
• Serve with a cold drink such as iced tea or lemonade to balance the savory flavors.

Additional Tips

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your Filipino Pancit with Beef turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use thinly sliced beef: Thinly slice your beef across the grain to ensure it stays tender and cooks quickly.
2. Don’t overcook the noodles: Rice noodles cook quickly, so be sure to soak them just until they’re softened and avoid cooking them in the pan for too long.
3. Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce or salt based on your personal preference and the type of soy sauce used.
4. Add more vegetables: If you love veggies, you can add more cabbage, bell peppers, or even snap peas for extra crunch and color.
5. Make it spicier: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some sliced chili peppers to the mix while cooking the beef.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of noodles?
   • Yes! You can use other types of rice noodles or even egg noodles if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
2. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
   • Absolutely! You can easily swap the beef for chicken or pork. Simply adjust the cooking times based on the type of meat you use.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stove with a bit of chicken stock or water.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   • Yes! You can skip the beef and use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
   • It’s best to eat this dish fresh, but if you must freeze it, make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat it thoroughly when ready to eat.
6. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
   • You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
7. Can I add more spice?
   • Yes! Add red chili flakes, fresh chopped chilies, or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.
8. What other vegetables can I add?
   • You can add bell peppers, peas, or baby corn for additional texture and flavor.
9. Can I use a wok to cook this?
   • Yes! A wok is ideal for stir-frying and gives the dish a nice smoky flavor. But if you don’t have one, a large sauté pan works well too.
10. Can I serve this with rice?

• While the dish already has noodles, serving it with a side of rice is a great option if you want to add more carbs or have it as part of a larger meal.

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