Filipino Pancit With Beef

Introduction

When I first made Filipino Pancit with Beef for my family, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But after the first bite, it became an instant hit. The combination of tender beef, savory soy sauce, and the crunch of fresh veggies melded perfectly with the soft rice noodles, and the dish was devoured in minutes. What I love about this recipe is how customizable it is while still staying true to the authentic flavors of Pancit, a beloved Filipino dish. My family has been asking for it regularly ever since, and I’m happy to oblige. It’s simple enough to make on a weeknight but special enough to serve at gatherings, making it the perfect addition to any meal plan.

Why You’ll Love This Filipino Pancit With Beef

Filipino Pancit is one of those dishes that feels like home, no matter where you are. With its light yet hearty combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and soft rice noodles, this recipe strikes a perfect balance between comfort food and a healthy, satisfying meal. The rice noodles, soaked to perfection, take on the rich flavors of the soy sauce, beef, and chicken stock, while the vegetables add a refreshing crunch and a burst of color. It’s a one-pan dish that comes together quickly and is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a family gathering, Filipino Pancit with Beef is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Filipino Pancit with Beef, gather 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 ingredients create a satisfying and flavorful Pancit that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Filipino Pancit with Beef:

1. Soak the Noodles:
   Begin by soaking the rice noodles according to the package directions. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on the brand. Make sure to drain them well and set aside.
2. Prepare Ingredients:
   While the noodles are soaking, slice the beef into bite-sized pieces and dice the yellow onion, garlic, and green onions. Set all the vegetables and meat aside for easy access when cooking.
3. Heat the Oil:
   Heat the canola oil in a wok or large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef slices to the pan.
4. Cook the Beef:
   Add the diced yellow onion, minced garlic, and soy sauce to the pan with the beef. Cook everything together for 3-5 minutes, or until the beef is browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This will give the beef a nice caramelization and a rich flavor from the soy sauce.
5. Add Stock and Veggies:
   Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, and diced green onions. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables have softened, but still maintain some crunch.
6. Combine with Noodles:
   Once the vegetables have softened, add the soaked noodles to the pan. Toss everything together gently to combine, making sure the noodles soak up the delicious flavors of the stock and soy sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
   Serve the Pancit hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired. It’s perfect on its own or served alongside a variety of dishes like grilled meats or seafood.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 400 kcal
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 30g

This dish is a well-rounded meal with plenty of protein and a good amount of vegetables, making it a satisfying option for both lunch and dinner. The noodles provide a healthy carbohydrate base, while the beef and vegetables ensure you’re getting a balanced mix of nutrients.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

The recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or a meal prep dish that you can enjoy throughout the week.

How to Serve

Here are a few ideas on how to serve your Filipino Pancit with Beef:

• As a Main Dish:
  Serve it as a standalone dish for a hearty meal. The combination of beef, vegetables, and noodles is filling enough to stand alone.
• As a Side Dish:
  Pair it with grilled meats, such as chicken, pork, or seafood, for a more substantial meal. The flavors of the Pancit will complement almost any main protein.
• With a Fresh Salad:
  Serve it with a side of Filipino-style ensalada (tomato and cucumber salad) to balance out the richness of the Pancit with some fresh crunch.
• Garnished:
  Garnish with extra diced green onions or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or fried garlic for added flavor and texture.

Additional Tips

1. Use Thinly Sliced Beef:
   For the best texture, slice the beef thinly across the grain. This will help it cook quickly and remain tender.
2. Customize the Vegetables:
   If you don’t have cabbage or carrots, feel free to substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or even spinach for added color and nutrition.
3. Use Low-Sodium Soy Sauce:
   If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce to help control the salt content in the dish.
4. Soak the Noodles Properly:
   Be sure to follow the package instructions for soaking the rice noodles. Over-soaking can cause them to become too soft, while under-soaking can result in a chewy texture.
5. Add Heat if Desired:
   If you like spicy food, feel free to add some sliced chilies or a drizzle of chili oil for a bit of heat.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use another type of noodle?
   Yes, you can use other types of noodles, such as lo mein or egg noodles, although the texture will differ from the rice noodles traditionally used in Pancit.
2. Can I use chicken or pork instead of beef?
   Absolutely! Chicken, pork, or even shrimp can be used as a substitute for beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the beef and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You could also add tofu for protein.
4. Can I make Pancit ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the Pancit in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
5. Can I freeze Pancit?
   Although it’s not ideal, you can freeze leftover Pancit for up to 1 month. The noodles may become softer upon thawing, but the flavors will still be great.
6. How do I store leftover Pancit?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The dish tastes just as good the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
7. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes! Feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to increase the flavor and nutritional content.
8. What can I use if I don’t have a wok?
   If you don’t have a wok, you can use a large sauté pan or skillet instead. Just ensure the pan is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.
9. Is this dish gluten-free?
   If you use gluten-free soy sauce, this dish can be made gluten-free. Be sure to check the label of the soy sauce for any gluten content.
10. Can I use homemade chicken stock?
    Absolutely! Homemade chicken stock will add a richer flavor to the dish, making it even more delicious.

Conclusion

Filipino Pancit with Beef is a dish that brings together the perfect balance of savory flavors, tender beef, and fresh vegetables, all tied together by the comforting texture of rice noodles. It’s an easy, quick-to-make recipe that’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or a long-time fan, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy this flavorful, vibrant dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

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