Corned Beef and Cabbage (Guisado): A Filipino-Style Easy Recipe

  

Guisado Goodness: Corned Beef Edition

Corned Beef with Cabbage is a simple and budget-friendly dish that has become a staple in many Filipino households. This dish is quite similar to "sinabawang corned beef," but with the addition of one more ingredient: cabbage. Growing up, my mom used to make this all the time for breakfast before school. The aroma of sautéed garlic and onions would fill the kitchen, creating a comforting start to the day. Ginisang Corned Beef is incredibly easy to prepare in just a few minutes and cooks in one pan. It's a hearty and delicious combination of chunky corned beef and shredded cabbage, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any meal of the day.

Why Filipinos Love Canned Corned Beef

Canned corned beef holds a special place in the hearts of many Filipinos. It's a versatile, convenient, and affordable ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of dishes. For busy households, it’s a lifesaver on hectic days when there’s little time to cook. Its long shelf life makes it a pantry staple, ensuring there's always something delicious to prepare even when fresh ingredients are running low.

Filipinos have a unique way of incorporating corned beef into their cuisine. It's not just a breakfast item but also a popular choice for lunch and dinner. The addition of vegetables, like cabbage or potatoes, not only stretches the meal further but also adds nutrition and flavor. This love for canned corned beef can be traced back to American colonial times when it was introduced to the Philippines. Over the years, it has become deeply ingrained in Filipino culinary traditions.

Recipe video:

What is Corned Beef?

Corned beef is a type of salt-cured beef product. The term "corned" comes from the treatment of the meat with large-grained rock salt, also called "corns" of salt. The history of corned beef dates back to ancient times, but it became particularly popular during the 17th century when the British began producing it in large quantities. Today, it’s widely enjoyed across the world and has been adapted into many different culinary traditions, including Filipino cuisine.

Corned beef became a significant export product in Ireland, especially during the 19th century. It was commonly used to feed armies and navies, due to its long shelf life. However, the version we know today, often found in cans, became more widespread during the 20th century, especially in regions like the Philippines where American influence introduced various canned goods.

Ingredients:

1 can of corned beef (less sodium)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, sliced

1/2 medium-sized cabbage, shredded

Pepper, to taste

1 tbsp oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the pan. Cook until the garlic is golden brown and the onions are soft and translucent.
3. Add the Corned Beef: Open the can of corned beef and add it to the pan. Break it apart with a spoon and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until it's heated through and slightly browned.
4. Add the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the pan. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
5. Season to Taste: Season with pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your Corned Beef and Cabbage with steamed rice or pandesal.

One of the staples in my pantry is canned corned beef. It's my go-to for those days when I don't have the time or the energy to spend more than 30 minutes making dinner. My love for canned corned beef started in childhood when my mom would whip up a quick and delicious meal before I headed off to school. The combination of savory corned beef and the slight crunch of cabbage creates a comforting dish that reminds me of home.

The beauty of this Corned Beef with Cabbage recipe lies in its simplicity and the nostalgic memories it brings. It's not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a quick breakfast before heading out the door or a comforting meal after a long day, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home too.

So next time you're looking for a hearty, quick, and budget-friendly meal, give this Corned Beef and Cabbage a try. It's a true testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious.