Craving a taste of the Philippines? Then look no further! This Pancit Palabok recipe, made easier with Mama Sita's convenient seasoning mix, is a delicious and surprisingly simple dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget complicated recipes; this one delivers authentic flavor with minimal effort, making it a fantastic option for both beginner and experienced cooks. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea and create a truly memorable meal!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Pantry Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. The Mama Sita seasoning mix significantly simplifies the process, ensuring authentic flavors without the fuss.
- 1 pound dried thick rice noodles (Pancit Bihon)
- 1/2 cup Mama Sita's Pancit Palabok seasoning mix
- 6 cups water
- 1/4 cup cooking oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cooked chicharon (pork cracklings), crushed
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, roughly chopped (optional, for extra protein)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup cooked hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
For the Special Palabok Sauce:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup shrimp broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon annatto powder (atsuete) - for color (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions: Cooking Your Pancit Palabok
This recipe is designed for ease and speed, making it an ideal healthy meal option. Follow these simple steps to achieve delicious results.
1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Avoid overcooking; you want them slightly firm to prevent mushiness.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and slightly softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the wok and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the wok and set aside.
4. Prepare the Palabok Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and water until smooth. Gradually whisk in the shrimp broth and annatto powder (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine Everything: Add the Mama Sita's Pancit Palabok seasoning mix to the wok with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to combine. Pour in the prepared Palabok sauce and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. The sauce will thicken as it simmers.
6. Add Noodles and Shrimp: Add the cooked noodles and shrimp to the wok. Gently toss to coat everything evenly in the flavorful sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Pancit Palabok to a serving platter. Top generously with crushed chicharon, chopped green onions, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and optional cooked shrimp. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Pancit Palabok
- Don't overcook the noodles! Slightly firm noodles are ideal.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. You can also add a dash of sugar for a touch of sweetness.
- Get creative with toppings: Feel free to experiment with other toppings like shredded pork, sliced carrots, or even some fresh herbs.
Variations and Delicious Twists
- Vegetarian Pancit Palabok: Omit the shrimp and chicharon and add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, or bean sprouts.
- Spicy Pancit Palabok: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 60-70g
- Fat: 15-20g
This easy Pancit Palabok recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavorful sauce, tender noodles, and crispy toppings makes it an irresistible dish that will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy!