Quick & Easy Pinoy Lunch Ideas

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Pinoy cuisine, a vibrant tapestry woven from diverse cultural influences, is a testament to the Philippines’ rich history. From Spanish colonization to American occupation and Chinese trade, these external forces have left an indelible mark on the nation’s culinary landscape. Today, Filipino dishes are celebrated for their bold flavors, unique ingredient combinations, and heartwarming comfort.

The Dragon’s Kiss: A Pinoy-Chinese Fusion

For this culinary adventure, we’ll embark on a fusion journey, blending the hearty flavors of Filipino cuisine with the delicate nuances of Chinese cooking. The result? A dish that is both familiar and extraordinary.

Got Coconut Milk? Make Ginataang Gulay, a Cozy Filipino Vegetable Stew
Got Coconut Milk? Make Ginataang Gulay, a Cozy Filipino Vegetable Stew

Image Source: foodandwine.com

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup baby corn, halved
  • 1/2 cup snow peas, trimmed
  • 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onion
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

    • Preparation:

    1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
    2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken marinates, blanch the broccoli, baby corn, and snow peas in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
    3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Dredge the marinated chicken in cornstarch and add to the hot oil. Cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
    4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the bell pepper and green onion. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
    5. Create the Sauce: Combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry.
    6. Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer until the sauce thickens.
    7. Serve: Serve the Dragon’s Kiss over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of sesame oil.

    Total Time: 45 minutes

    Serving Ideas:

    Elegant Presentation: Serve the Dragon’s Kiss in individual bowls, garnished with a sprig of cilantro and a drizzle of sesame oil.

  • Family-Style Feast: Serve the dish family-style in a large platter, alongside steamed rice and a variety of stir-fried vegetables.
  • Noodle Bowl: Serve the Dragon’s Kiss over a bed of rice noodles or lo mein for a hearty and satisfying meal.

    • The Dragon’s Kiss is a testament to the culinary creativity that arises from cultural exchange. It’s a dish that celebrates the bold flavors of Filipino cuisine while embracing the delicate nuances of Chinese cooking. As we savor each bite, we’re not just enjoying a meal; we’re embarking on a culinary journey through time and space.