Pares, also known as beef pares, is a Filipino dish. It’s a braised beef stew served with garlic fried rice and clear beef broth soup. It’s a favorite street food and diner dish in the Philippines.
It’s known for its tender beef stewed in a sweet-soy sauce. While both beef stew and pares have slow-cooked beef, they’re different. Pares has a sweet-savory sauce, unlike beef stew’s savory gravy.
Pares is served with rice and soup, making it a complete meal. Beef stew, on the other hand, is often eaten alone or with bread.
Key Takeaways
- Pares is a Filipino braised beef stew dish, while beef stew is a more generic dish found in various cuisines.
- Pares has a distinct sweet-savory sauce, while beef stew typically has a more savory gravy-like consistency.
- Pares is often served with rice and soup as a complete meal, while beef stew is usually served on its own or with bread.
- Pares is a popular street food and diner-style dish in the Philippines, known for its tender beef.
- While both dishes feature slow-cooked beef, they differ in their origins, preparation methods, and flavors.
What is Pares?
Pares is a favorite Filipino dish loved by many. It’s a hearty beef stew with flavors that warm the soul. The name “pares” comes from the Spanish word “par,” meaning “pair.” This refers to the beef paired with garlic fried rice, or sinangag, and a clear beef broth.
Origin and Etymology of Pares
The story of pares begins with the Philippines’ rich food traditions. The name “pares” comes from Spanish, showing the country’s mix of cultures in its food.
Pares has a long history, starting in the early 1900s. It’s often found in roadside diners, or paresan, and small eateries, or carinderias. These places are key to Filipino food culture.
“Pares is a quintessential part of the Filipino culinary experience, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that has been passed down through generations.”
Description of Pares
Pares is a favorite Filipino dish that mixes savory and sweet tastes. It has tender beef asado cooked in a sweet-soy sauce marinade. This meat is served with garlic fried rice, or sinangag, and a warm beef broth soup.
The soup’s roots come from the broth used to make the beef tender. It’s seasoned with onions, garlic, peppercorns, chives, and sometimes bay leaves. This broth adds flavor and warmth to the dish.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Beef Asado | Tender beef simmered in a sweet-soy sauce marinade |
| Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) | Fragrant and flavorful fried rice made with garlic |
| Beef Broth Soup | Comforting soup made from the broth used to tenderize the beef, seasoned with onions, garlic, peppercorns, chives, and sometimes bay leaves |
The mix of components – tender beef, aromatic rice, and soothing soup – makes pares a mouthwatering and satisfying meal. It’s a beloved part of Filipino cuisine.
Variations of Pares
The classic pares dish is loved by many, but there are interesting variations too. One is called pares kariton or pares kanto. It combines beef and broth, with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it.
This version is less sweet and has fewer spices than the beef asado. But it’s more savory because of beef tendons, bone marrow, and fatty cuts. It’s a hearty dish that’s popular in the Philippines’ cities.
Pares Kanto and Pares Kariton
Pares kanto and pares kariton are two popular pares types. Pares kanto is sold by street vendors, while pares kariton comes from pushcarts or mobile stalls.
- Pares kanto has a thicker, savory broth. The beef and sides are in one bowl.
- Pares kariton has a thinner broth. It’s served separately, so you can add as much as you want to your rice and beef.
Both versions are great for enjoying pares on the go. They meet the needs of many street food lovers in the Philippines.
| Variation | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Pares Kanto | Thicker, more savory broth; beef and accompaniments served together in a single bowl |
| Pares Kariton | Thinner broth served separately, allowing customers to customize their dish |
Are beef stew and pares the same?
Beef stew and pares both have slow-cooked beef. But, they come from different places and taste differently. Pares is a Filipino dish with tender beef in sweet-soy sauce. Beef stew has a savory gravy.
Pares is served with rice and pickled veggies, making a perfect meal. Beef stew is often eaten alone or with bread.
The way they’re cooked also sets them apart. Pares is simmered slowly for tender beef and rich flavors. Beef stew has a thicker broth and more veggies, making it heartier.
| Characteristic | Beef Stew | Pares |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Western cuisine | Filipino cuisine |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, gravy-like | Sweet-soy sauce |
| Cooking Method | Simmered with vegetables | Slow-simmered beef |
| Serving | Standalone or with bread | Paired with rice and pickled vegetables |
In conclusion, beef stew and pares may share beef, but they’re unique dishes. Knowing their differences helps us appreciate different cuisines more.
Cooking Pares at Home
Making the classic Filipino dish pares at home is a fun and rewarding experience. It lets you enjoy the rich flavors and tender texture of this beloved comfort food. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, learning to make pares is a delightful journey.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make pares at home, start with the right cut of meat. Beef brisket is the best choice because it has lots of connective tissues. These tissues break down during cooking, making the meat tender and soft.
The first step is to clean the beef by boiling it. This removes any impurities.
- Rinse the beef brisket and place it in a large pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer the beef for 30 minutes to an hour, skimming off any scum that rises to the surface.
- Drain the beef and return it to the pot. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, star anise, ginger, and bay leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and falling off the bone.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more soy sauce or sugar as desired.
The secret to great pares is patience and slow cooking. Simmering the beef in the sauce makes the flavors blend together. This turns the meat into tender and juicy goodness.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef brisket | 2 lbs |
| Soy sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Star anise | 2 pieces |
| Ginger, sliced | 2 inches |
| Bay leaves | 2 pieces |
By following these simple steps, you can make authentic pares in your own kitchen. Enjoy this delicious dish with your loved ones. Savor the comforting and satisfying experience of homemade pares.
Serving and Storing Pares
Pares, a favorite Filipino beef stew, is often served in a combo set. This includes the hot beef stew, a bowl of clear beef broth, and garlic fried rice. It’s a classic way to enjoy the dish’s flavors and textures. But, you can also have it with just steamed rice if you like.
When serving how to serve pares, make sure the stew is hot and flavorful. The clear beef broth soup adds a refreshing contrast. The garlic fried rice, with its crispy texture, completes the meal by soaking up the sauce.
If you want to store pares for later, you can refrigerate it for 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This way, the beef stays tender and the flavors stay vibrant.
| Serving Pares | Storing Pares | Reheating Pares |
|---|---|---|
| – Served in a combo set with beef stew, clear broth soup, and garlic fried rice – Can also be enjoyed with just steamed rice |
– Can be refrigerated for 3-4 days – Store in an airtight container |
– Gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave – Avoid overcooking the beef |
“The secret to the perfect pares lies in the balance of flavors and the care taken in its preparation. It’s a dish that truly nourishes the soul.”
Popularity and Cultural Significance
Pares, a beloved Filipino dish, is a comforting staple across the country. It’s especially popular among motorists looking for a hearty meal after a long day. Roadside diners and small eateries are where people go to enjoy this flavorful stew.
Pares holds deep cultural significance for Filipinos. It represents the country’s diverse culinary heritage, blending Chinese and Filipino flavors. It’s a cherished part of Filipino dining, often enjoyed with family and friends. Its popularity stems from its ability to evoke nostalgia and comfort.
Pares is a source of national pride, showcasing the country’s rich gastronomic traditions. Its lasting presence on menus and in the hearts of Filipinos highlights its cultural significance. It brings people together through the shared joy of good food.
| Popularity Factors | Cultural Significance |
|---|---|
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The popularity and cultural significance of pares are clear. It’s a comfort food with deep roots in Filipino traditions. Pares brings people together through the shared love of good food.
Nutritional Value of Pares
Pares, the beloved Filipino beef dish, is not only a delightful culinary experience but also a nutritious meal. A closer look at the nutritional information of pares reveals its impressive macronutrient profile and the health benefits of pares.
At the heart of pares is the tender, braised beef, which provides a rich source of protein. The protein content in pares helps support muscle growth, repair, and maintenance, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
Accompanying the beef is the garlic fried rice, which contributes carbohydrates to the dish. Carbohydrates serve as the primary source of energy for the body, ensuring that you feel energized and fueled throughout the day.
The clear beef broth that’s typically served with pares is more than just a flavorful accompaniment. It’s a nutrient-dense component that provides a range of macronutrients and vitamins, including but not limited to iron, calcium, and B vitamins.
Moreover, the pares dish may also include various vegetables, further enhancing its nutritional profile and providing a well-rounded meal. These vegetables can contribute additional fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish.
In summary, the nutritional value of pares lies in its balanced macronutrient composition, with protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the rice, and a host of essential nutrients from the broth and accompanying ingredients. Incorporating pares into your diet can be a delicious and nutritious way to support your overall health and well-being.
Comparison with Other Beef Dishes
Pares is special because it has a sweet-savory sauce made with soy sauce and brown sugar. This sauce is different from the tomato-based or citrus-forward sauces in other Filipino beef dishes. It makes pares unique.
The way pares is cooked is also different. It simmers the beef in a sweet and savory sauce until it’s very tender. This method gives pares a rich, caramelized flavor. Other beef dishes, like Beef Mechado or Beef Kaldereta, are cooked differently, resulting in a heartier texture.
Even though pares is different, it shares some similarities with other Filipino beef dishes. Like Bistek, pares uses thin slices of beef. This allows the meat to absorb the flavorful sauce well. Also, all these dishes are served over rice, making them comforting and satisfying.
| Dish | Key Difference from Pares | Similarity to Pares |
|---|---|---|
| Beef Mechado | Tomato-based sauce | Slow-cooked beef |
| Bistek | Citrus-forward sauce | Thin slices of beef |
| Beef Kaldereta | Tomato-based sauce | Served over rice |
In summary, pares is unique because of its sweet-savory sauce and cooking method. It stands out as a delicious and distinctive dish in Filipino cuisine.
Conclusion
Pares is a standout Filipino dish that highlights the nation’s rich culinary history. It’s a beloved street food and comfort meal. It features tender beef stewed in sweet-soy sauce, served with garlic fried rice and a clear beef broth soup.
This dish is unique because of its flavor, serving style, and cultural importance. It’s different from other Filipino beef dishes. Its distinct taste and cultural significance make it special.
The key takeaways about pares are its unique flavors and its role as a comfort food. It shows the creativity of Filipino cuisine. It mixes international tastes with local ingredients for a unique dining experience.
Pares is loved by many, whether as street food or a home-cooked meal. It’s more than a meal; it’s a cultural symbol. It reflects the Filipino people’s warmth, hospitality, and culinary skill.
FAQ
Are beef stew and pares the same?
No, beef stew and pares are not the same. They both have slow-cooked beef but differ in many ways. Pares is a Filipino dish with tender beef in sweet-soy sauce. Beef stew has a savory gravy.
What is Pares?
Pares, or beef pares, is a Filipino dish. It’s a tender beef stew with sweet-soy sauce. It’s often served with garlic fried rice and clear beef broth soup.
What are the variations of Pares?
There’s a variation called pares kariton or pares kanto. It combines beef and broth, slightly thickened. This version is less sweet and more savory, using beef tendons and fatty cuts.
How can Pares be cooked at home?
Beef brisket is the best meat for pares at home. It’s boiled first, then simmered in a sauce. The sauce includes soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices until the meat is tender.
How is Pares typically served?
Pares is served in a combo set. This includes hot beef stew, clear broth, and garlic fried rice. It can also be enjoyed with steamed rice alone.
What is the cultural significance of Pares?
Pares is a beloved comfort food in the Philippines. It’s often found in roadside diners and small eateries. It’s a favorite for a hot meal after a long day.
What is the nutritional value of Pares?
Pares offers a good mix of nutrients. It has protein from beef, carbs from rice, and nutrients from the broth and veggies.