Pares Kanto, a popular Filipino comfort food, has been a staple in many households and restaurants for decades. This iconic dish, which originated in the streets of Manila, is a delicious combination of braised beef, garlic fried rice, and a savory beef broth. In this article, we will delve into the history of Pares Kanto, its cultural significance, and most importantly, provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook this mouth-watering dish.
A Brief History of Pares Kanto
Pares Kanto, which translates to “pair from the street,” has its roots in the humble streets of Manila. The dish is believed to have originated in the 1960s, when street vendors in the city’s busy streets began serving a simple yet flavorful meal consisting of braised beef, garlic fried rice, and a side of beef broth. The dish quickly gained popularity among locals and eventually spread throughout the country, becoming a staple in many Filipino households.
The Cultural Significance of Pares Kanto
Pares Kanto is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings people together. In the Philippines, food plays a significant role in bringing families and friends together, and Pares Kanto is no exception. The dish is often served during special occasions, such as birthdays and holidays, and is a staple in many Filipino restaurants.
The Key Components of Pares Kanto
Pares Kanto consists of three main components: braised beef, garlic fried rice, and beef broth. Each component is crucial to the dish’s overall flavor and texture.
Braised Beef
The braised beef is the star of the show in Pares Kanto. The beef is slow-cooked in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, resulting in a tender and flavorful piece of meat. The beef is typically cut into small pieces and cooked in a large pot, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Garlic Fried Rice
The garlic fried rice is a crucial component of Pares Kanto. The rice is cooked with garlic, onions, and sometimes, scrambled eggs, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic side dish. The garlic fried rice is typically served alongside the braised beef and beef broth.
Beef Broth
The beef broth is a savory and comforting component of Pares Kanto. The broth is made by simmering beef bones in water, resulting in a rich and flavorful liquid. The broth is often served on the side, allowing diners to dip their braised beef and garlic fried rice into the savory liquid.
Cooking Pares Kanto: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Pares Kanto is a relatively simple process that requires some patience and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking this iconic dish:
Ingredients
- 1 kilogram beef brisket or beef shank, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the beef, soy sauce, vinegar, fish sauce, black pepper, garlic, and onion. Pour in enough water to cover the beef and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- While the beef is cooking, prepare the garlic fried rice. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry until the rice is well coated with the garlic and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- To make the beef broth, combine the beef bones and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the broth is rich and flavorful. Strain the broth and discard the solids.
- To assemble the dish, place a scoop of garlic fried rice on a plate, followed by a piece of braised beef. Serve the beef broth on the side.
Tips and Variations
While the traditional recipe for Pares Kanto is delicious on its own, there are several variations and tips that can enhance the dish.
Adding Vegetables
Adding vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and green beans can add texture and flavor to the dish. Simply add the vegetables to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Using Different Cuts of Beef
While beef brisket or beef shank is traditional in Pares Kanto, other cuts of beef such as beef belly or beef ribs can also be used. Simply adjust the cooking time and method according to the cut of beef.
Serving with Egg
Serving Pares Kanto with a fried egg on top is a popular variation. Simply fry an egg in a pan and place it on top of the garlic fried rice.
Conclusion
Pares Kanto is a delicious and iconic Filipino dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its rich and flavorful broth, tender braised beef, and savory garlic fried rice, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the best of Filipino cuisine. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic Pares Kanto dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
What is Pares Kanto and where did it originate?
Pares Kanto is a popular Filipino dish that originated in the streets of Manila, specifically in the Kanto area of Tondo. The name “Pares” is derived from the Filipino term “pare,” which means “pair” or “partner,” referring to the combination of braised beef and garlic fried rice served together.
This iconic dish has been a staple in Filipino cuisine for decades, with its rich flavors and hearty portions making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The dish is often served in small eateries and street food stalls, where it is cooked to perfection over an open flame.
What are the main ingredients needed to cook Pares Kanto?
The main ingredients needed to cook Pares Kanto include beef brisket or beef shank, garlic, onions, ginger, soy sauce, vinegar, and black pepper. For the garlic fried rice, you will need cooked rice, garlic, onions, and vegetable oil. You will also need some salt and pepper to taste.
It’s worth noting that some variations of Pares Kanto may include additional ingredients, such as star anise, bay leaves, or chili peppers. However, the core ingredients remain the same, and the dish is known for its simplicity and rich flavors.
How do I prepare the beef for Pares Kanto?
To prepare the beef for Pares Kanto, you will need to slice the beef brisket or beef shank into thin strips and marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices for at least an hour. This will help to tenderize the beef and infuse it with flavor.
After marinating, you can then braise the beef in a pot of liquid, such as beef broth or water, until it is tender and falls apart easily. This process can take several hours, but the end result is well worth the wait.
How do I cook the garlic fried rice for Pares Kanto?
To cook the garlic fried rice for Pares Kanto, you will need to heat some vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté minced garlic and onions until fragrant. Then, you can add cooked rice to the pan and stir-fry it with the garlic and onions until everything is well combined.
The key to cooking good garlic fried rice is to use day-old rice, as it is drier and easier to stir-fry than freshly cooked rice. You can also add some soy sauce or oyster sauce to the rice for extra flavor.
Can I use other types of meat for Pares Kanto?
While beef is the traditional choice for Pares Kanto, you can also use other types of meat, such as pork or chicken, as a substitute. However, beef remains the most popular choice due to its rich flavor and tender texture.
If you do choose to use other types of meat, you may need to adjust the cooking time and method accordingly. For example, pork or chicken may require less braising time than beef, and you may need to add more liquid to the pot to prevent the meat from drying out.
How do I serve Pares Kanto?
Pares Kanto is typically served with a scoop of garlic fried rice and a bowl of braised beef on the side. You can also add some dipping sauce, such as a mixture of soy sauce and vinegar, to the dish for extra flavor.
When serving Pares Kanto, it’s best to use a steaming hot plate to keep the rice and beef warm. You can also garnish the dish with some chopped green onions or garlic for added flavor and texture.
Can I make Pares Kanto ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Pares Kanto ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the beef and rice separately and reheat them when you’re ready to serve. The beef can be braised ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use, while the garlic fried rice can be cooked and refrigerated for up to a day.
When reheating the dish, make sure to heat the beef and rice separately to prevent the rice from becoming mushy or the beef from drying out. You can also add some fresh garlic or onions to the dish for added flavor.