Cooking Miki Guisado: A Delicious Filipino Noodle Dish

Miki guisado is a popular Filipino noodle dish that is made with fresh egg noodles, vegetables, and a savory sauce. It is a staple in many Filipino households and is often served during special occasions. In this article, we will guide you on how to cook miki guisado, a dish that is both delicious and easy to prepare.

What is Miki Guisado?

Miki guisado is a type of Filipino noodle dish that originated in the province of Pampanga. It is made with fresh egg noodles, which are cooked in a savory sauce made with pork or chicken broth, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood. The dish is similar to the Chinese stir-fry noodle dish, but it has a unique Filipino twist.

History of Miki Guisado

The history of miki guisado dates back to the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines. During this time, Chinese immigrants came to the Philippines and brought with them their culinary traditions, including stir-fry noodle dishes. The Filipinos adapted these dishes to their own taste, using local ingredients and cooking techniques. Over time, miki guisado became a popular dish in the Philippines, particularly in the province of Pampanga.

Ingredients Needed

To cook miki guisado, you will need the following ingredients:

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When choosing the ingredients for miki guisado, it is essential to select fresh and high-quality ingredients. Fresh egg noodles are a must, as they will give the dish a better texture and flavor. You can find fresh egg noodles at most Asian markets or supermarkets.

For the broth, you can use either pork or chicken broth. Pork broth is more traditional, but chicken broth is also a good option. You can use store-bought broth or make your own by simmering pork or chicken bones in water.

Cooking Miki Guisado

Cooking miki guisado is relatively easy and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook miki guisado:

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

To cook the noodles, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the fresh egg noodles and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are slightly undercooked. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Heat the Oil and Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it is translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Step 3: Add the Shrimp or Pork and Cook Until Browned

Add the sliced shrimp or pork to the wok or frying pan and cook until it is browned. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Cook Until They Are Tender

Add the chopped vegetables to the wok or frying pan and cook until they are tender. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Broth, Soy Sauce, and Oyster Sauce (If Using)

Pour in the pork or chicken broth, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) into the wok or frying pan. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.

Step 6: Add the Cooked Noodles and Stir-Fry

Add the cooked noodles to the wok or frying pan and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are well coated with the sauce.

Step 7: Season with Salt and Pepper to Taste

Season the miki guisado with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the miki guisado hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of salt.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best miki guisado:

• Use a variety of vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, and green onions, to add texture and flavor to the dish.
• Add some protein, such as shrimp or pork, to make the dish more substantial.
• Use a combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce to give the dish a richer flavor.
• Add some chili peppers or chili flakes to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Serve the miki guisado with a side of patis (fish sauce) or calamansi (Filipino lime) for added flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking miki guisado:

• Overcooking the noodles, which can make them mushy and unappetizing.
• Not using enough broth, which can make the dish dry and flavorless.
• Not seasoning the dish enough, which can make it taste bland.
• Not stir-frying the noodles enough, which can make them stick together.

Conclusion

Miki guisado is a delicious and easy-to-make Filipino noodle dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich and savory sauce, fresh egg noodles, and variety of vegetables, it is a dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make a delicious and authentic miki guisado that will impress your family and friends.

What is Miki Guisado?

Miki Guisado is a popular Filipino noodle dish made with thick, chewy noodles called “miki” or “fresh egg noodles.” It is a stir-fry dish cooked in a savory sauce, typically made with a combination of ingredients such as pork, chicken, or seafood, mixed with vegetables and spices. The dish is often served as a main course or as a snack.

The name “Guisado” is a Spanish term that means “stewed,” which refers to the cooking method used to prepare the dish. However, unlike traditional stews, Miki Guisado is cooked quickly over high heat, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic sauce that coats the noodles.

What are the ingredients needed to cook Miki Guisado?

The ingredients needed to cook Miki Guisado may vary depending on personal preferences and regional traditions. However, the basic ingredients include miki noodles, protein sources such as pork, chicken, or seafood, mixed vegetables, garlic, onions, and a savory sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and patis (fish sauce). Other ingredients that may be added include mushrooms, bell peppers, and chili peppers.

Some recipes may also call for additional ingredients such as sesame oil, black pepper, and salt to enhance the flavor of the dish. Fresh herbs such as green onions and cilantro may also be used as garnishes to add freshness and color to the dish.

How do I cook Miki Guisado?

To cook Miki Guisado, start by preparing the ingredients, including slicing the protein sources and mixed vegetables, and mincing the garlic and onions. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat, then stir-fry the protein sources until they are cooked through. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp.

Next, add the miki noodles and savory sauce to the wok or skillet, and stir-fry everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and patis to taste, then serve hot garnished with fresh herbs.

Can I use other types of noodles instead of miki?

While miki noodles are traditional in Miki Guisado, other types of noodles can be used as substitutes. However, the dish may not have the same texture and flavor as traditional Miki Guisado. Some options for substitute noodles include rice noodles, egg noodles, or even instant noodles.

However, it’s worth noting that using other types of noodles may alter the cooking time and method. For example, rice noodles may require soaking in hot water before stir-frying, while egg noodles may require boiling before stir-frying. Instant noodles, on the other hand, may require less cooking time and liquid.

Can I add other ingredients to Miki Guisado?

Yes, Miki Guisado is a versatile dish that can be customized with various ingredients to suit personal tastes. Some options for additional ingredients include cooked meats such as bacon or ham, boiled eggs, and pickled vegetables. Other ingredients that may be added include grated ginger, chili flakes, or curry powder to give the dish an extra kick.

When adding new ingredients, it’s essential to balance the flavors and textures to ensure that the dish remains harmonious. For example, if adding strong-flavored ingredients such as bacon or curry powder, it may be necessary to adjust the amount of savory sauce used.

How do I store leftover Miki Guisado?

Leftover Miki Guisado can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. To store in the refrigerator, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. To freeze, transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container or freezer bag, label, and date.

When reheating leftover Miki Guisado, it’s essential to reheat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Reheating can be done in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven.

Is Miki Guisado a healthy dish?

Miki Guisado can be a nutritious and balanced dish if prepared with healthy ingredients and cooking methods. The miki noodles provide complex carbohydrates, while the protein sources and mixed vegetables add protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

However, the dish can also be high in calories, sodium, and saturated fat if excessive oil and sauces are used. To make a healthier version of Miki Guisado, use less oil, choose low-sodium sauces, and add more vegetables and lean protein sources.