| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 295 | 16g | 4g | 16g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 24g | 1.5g |
With the salty breeze of the Atlantic coast swirling around my kitchen, I came across the delightfully vibrant dish – the Siling Habas and Beef Skillet. True, my culinary expertise is rooted in New England seafood, but sometimes the mainland calls, coaxing me to explore land-based delicacies. This recipe strums a unique chord of fusion, combining the bold flavors of beef with the freshness of vegetables, much like a traditional Maine surf and turf.
A heart-healthy feast
What I am truly smitten with is the healthful grouping of ingredients in this Siling Habas and Beef Skillet. Peppered with a sumptuous serving of green beans, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, this dish doesn’t simply satisfy your palate, it also showers your body with a wealth of nutrients. Green beans, for example, touted as a nutrient-dense food, are high in fiber and packed with vitamins. Meanwhile, bell peppers are rich in antioxidants and can potentially reduce the risk of certain chronic illnesses.
The Harmony of Flavors
Now, about the flavors – think of it as a medley of tang, sweetness, and hints of savory spice. The tomatoes and pineapple chunks counterbalance the boldness of the beef with just the right touch of sweetness and acidity. Furthermore, the soy sauce and optional fish sauce add a savory undertone that gives the dish an umami depth. Finally, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you’re a fan of that extra kick.
In terms of pairing, this dish plays well with a side of fluffy white rice or even a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delightful mix of juices. It’s reminiscent of the Portuguese beef and beans skillet, but spun with a bright, tropical twist. Just garnish with cilantro, and you’ve got a dynamic dish brimming with vibrant, hearty flavors.
That’s it, folks! The Siling Habas and Beef Skillet – a recipe I fell in love with for its brilliant blend of nutrition-packed ingredients and diverse flavors. I hope it fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and wins the hearts of your family just as it did for my lovely daughters, Erin and Samantha.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb beef, cut into thin strips
- 2 cups green beans (siling habas), trimmed
- 1 large onion, sliced thinly
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups pineapple chunks
- 1 medium bell pepper, sliced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the thin strips of beef and sauté until they are browned on all sides. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step Two
Remove the browned beef from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions, minced garlic, and chopped tomatoes. Sauté these until the onions become translucent.
Step Three
Add the green beans (siling habas) to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook until the beans are just beginning to soften.
Step Four
Return the browned beef to the skillet and add the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and water. Bring everything to a simmer and let cook for about 10 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and the beans are tender.
Step Five
Add the pineapple chunks and the sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine, and continue to cook until the pepper has softened to your liking. If you prefer a little heat, add the red pepper flakes at this point.
Step Six
Taste the dish and adjust the seasonings if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or soy sauce as desired.
Step Seven
Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top of the dish as a garnish (if using). Serve the Siling Habas and Beef Skillet hot, over rice if desired.
