Why Make This Recipe

Palabok is a beloved Filipino dish that showcases a blend of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for celebrations and gatherings, making it a popular choice among families. The combination of rice noodles, savory meats, and a rich sauce creates a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easy to share with friends and family!

How to Make Palabok

Ingredients

• Rice noodles (400g)
• Shrimp (200g, peeled and deveined)
• Ground pork (200g)
• Firm tofu (200g, cubed)
• Annatto powder (1 tbsp)
• Fish sauce (2 tbsp)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1, chopped)
• Pork broth (4 cups)
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp, dissolved in water)
• Hard-boiled eggs (2, sliced)
• Chicharon (crushed, for topping)
• Green onions (chopped, for garnish)
• Lemon or calamansi (sliced, for serving)

Directions

1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, sauté garlic and onion until fragrant. Add ground pork and cook until browned.
3. Add shrimp and tofu, cook until shrimp turns pink.
4. Pour in pork broth and bring to a boil. Add annatto powder and fish sauce.
5. Stir in cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce.
6. Pour sauce over noodles. Top with hard-boiled eggs, chicharon, and green onions.
7. Serve with lemon or calamansi on the side. Enjoy this flavorful and festive Filipino dish!

How to Serve Palabok

Palabok is best served warm. You can place the noodles on a large plate or in bowls, then pour the sauce over the top. Top with slices of hard-boiled eggs and sprinkle chicharon and green onions for extra crunch and flavor. Serve with lemon or calamansi on the side for an added zesty touch!

How to Store Palabok

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to 3 days. When you want to eat it again, just reheat in a pan or microwave. Keep in mind that the noodles may soak up some of the sauce, so you might want to add a little water or broth when reheating.

Tips to Make Palabok

• Make sure to cook the noodles just right; you don’t want them too soft or overcooked.
• For a more intense flavor, let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes after adding the cornstarch.
• Adjust the fish sauce to your taste. It adds a salty depth, but you can start with less and add more as needed.

Variation

Feel free to add other toppings like sautéed vegetables or additional proteins such as chicken or beef. You can also switch the shrimp for other seafood like squid or fish if you prefer.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of noodle for Palabok?
Yes, while rice noodles are traditional, you can use other types like egg noodles, though the flavor may change.

2. Is Palabok gluten-free?
Yes, if you ensure that all ingredients, especially the fish sauce and cornstarch, are gluten-free, Palabok can be suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

3. Can I prepare Palabok in advance?
Yes! You can make the sauce in advance and store it separately. Just cook the noodles and combine before serving.