Filipino Pancit With Beef

Introduction

When I first tried Filipino Pancit, it was love at first bite. The combination of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and soft noodles was absolutely perfect. Over the years, I’ve made this dish countless times, tweaking it until it became a staple in our household. My family loves this Filipino Pancit with beef, and it’s a go-to dish for celebrations, casual dinners, and even lunch leftovers. It’s packed with flavor, and every bite is a delightful blend of textures and tastes. The soy sauce gives it a savory depth, while the beef adds richness, and the vegetables provide a fresh, satisfying crunch. If you’ve never tried pancit before, this recipe is a great starting point!

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Why You’ll Love Filipino Pancit With Beef

Filipino Pancit is a classic comfort food that’s incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of savory soy sauce, tender beef, and fresh vegetables makes this dish incredibly flavorful.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the veggies or protein to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Healthy & Filling: The dish is packed with nutritious vegetables and protein, making it a well-balanced meal.
• A Taste of Filipino Tradition: Pancit is a beloved dish in Filipino culture, often served during celebrations and gatherings, adding a special touch to any occasion.

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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

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Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Noodles

Start by soaking the rice noodles according to the package directions. These noodles typically need to be submerged in hot water for about 10-15 minutes until they’re soft and pliable. Once done, drain them and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

While the noodles soak, slice the beef into bite-sized pieces, dice the yellow onion, mince the garlic, and slice the carrots. You can also shred the cabbage and chop the green onions so everything is ready to go once you start cooking.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat the canola oil in a wok or large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Canola oil is a great choice for stir-frying because it has a high smoke point, ensuring that the beef and vegetables cook evenly without burning.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Add the sliced beef to the pan, along with the diced yellow onion, minced garlic, and soy sauce. Stir everything together, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Season with kosher salt and cracked pepper to taste. You’ll know the beef is done when it’s no longer pink, and it has a nice brown sear on the outside.

Step 5: Add Stock and Veggies

Pour the chicken stock into the pan to create a flavorful base for the sauce. Then, add the shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, and diced green onions. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 6: Combine with Noodles

Once the vegetables are tender, add the soaked rice noodles to the pan. Toss everything together, ensuring that the noodles, beef, and vegetables are well combined and coated in the savory sauce. Taste the mixture, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the Filipino Pancit hot and enjoy! This dish is best served immediately while the noodles are still warm, and the flavors have had time to meld together.

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories (depending on the amount of oil and beef used)

Macronutrients per serving (approximate):

• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g

Note: These nutrition facts are estimates and may vary depending on the exact brands of ingredients used and portion sizes.

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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How to Serve

Filipino Pancit with Beef is a flexible and satisfying dish. Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve with rice: Pancit pairs wonderfully with steamed rice. While the noodles are already filling, adding a side of rice can make the meal even heartier.
• Top with lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or calamansi (a Filipino lime) can brighten up the dish and add a tangy contrast to the savory beef and noodles.
• Garnish with more green onions: Add extra chopped green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Serve with fried garlic: For extra flavor and crunch, top the dish with fried garlic bits.
• Pair with a Filipino side dish: Serve with a side of Filipino lumpia (spring rolls) or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Different Proteins: While beef is the classic choice for Pancit, you can also use chicken, shrimp, or pork. If you choose chicken or shrimp, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Soak the Noodles Properly: Ensure that you follow the package directions for soaking the rice noodles. Over-soaking can make them mushy, while under-soaking can result in tough noodles.
3. Adjust the Seasoning: Pancit is all about the balance of savory flavors. Feel free to adjust the soy sauce and seasoning to suit your taste.
4. Make it Spicy: Add a dash of chili flakes or some sliced red chilies to bring some heat to the dish. This adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors.
5. Make it Ahead of Time: Pancit tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make Pancit with a different kind of noodle?
   Yes! While this recipe uses Thai Vermicelli rice noodles, you can substitute with other noodles like egg noodles or chow mein noodles.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
   Yes, frozen vegetables like carrots and peas can work as substitutes. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the pan.
3. Can I make Pancit with chicken or shrimp?
   Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
4. What is the best soy sauce for Pancit?
   Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish. Traditional dark soy sauce also adds a richer flavor.
5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and check that the rice noodles are labeled gluten-free (though most rice noodles are naturally gluten-free).
6. How can I make the dish spicier?
   Add chopped fresh chilies or red pepper flakes to the pan while cooking the beef and vegetables for an extra kick.
7. What can I serve Pancit with?
   Pancit pairs well with Filipino-style lumpia (spring rolls), grilled meats, or a simple side salad.
8. Can I freeze leftover Pancit?
   Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
9. Can I add other vegetables to Pancit?
   Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or snap peas. Just make sure they are cooked until tender.
10. How do I prevent the noodles from sticking?
    Make sure to soak the noodles just until they are pliable. Stir the noodles in the pan frequently to prevent them from sticking together.

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Conclusion

Filipino Pancit with Beef is a flavorful, satisfying dish that combines tender beef, crisp vegetables, and delicate rice noodles in a savory sauce. It’s quick and easy to make, and the result is a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special celebration, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich flavors of this Filipino classic, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different proteins and seasonings to make it your own!

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