by Penny Angeles-Tan | Nov 16, 2023 | Bon Appetit
Chicken pastel is not something I would cook every day as it has many ingredients. But as I was going through the ref and my pantry, I realized I had most of the ingredients to make it. I just had to run to the grocery for three ingredients: bell pepper, carrot, and Chorizo de Bilbao.
Before leaving, I brought the chicken out to thaw. As I was driving to the grocery, in my head, I was going “Pastel or Curry” over and over, and I decided that if I could not find the Chorizo de Bilbao, that meant that I would be making curry. I had an idea of where it could be, so I went straight to that section and immediately saw it … hanging below the Chinese Chorizo and Chorizo Macau. Decision made!
What part of the chicken should I use?
When it comes to chicken, I confess that I favor the thigh part because it is meaty and extra juicy. You can, of course, use any part or even one whole chicken. I know I saw some recipes that say to use chicken breasts, but … just between you and me … that part is dry … my least favorite part of the chicken.
Chicken fillet is also an alternative, but I find that many chicken stew-type dishes are more flavorful with the bone-in. That being said, you can most certainly use fillets … just add more flavor in with the chicken stock later.
Is substitution ok with marinades?
I say, sure, why not? Experiment! I do it all the time. I work with what I have in the kitchen. For example, I used light soy when I made this because that is what I had on hand. For the citrus, I usually use kalamansi, but since I still had half a lemon in the ref, I decided to use it rather than let it spoil.
Is there a technique for marinating chicken?
Honestly, it is the simplest thing. Just put the chicken in a large bowl, pour in the soy sauce, squeeze on the lemon juice, then give the chicken a massage. After that, just leave it alone for at least thirty minutes. Easy peasy, right?
Prep to kill time.
Some people leave the kitchen while marinating as it does take time. Me? I use that time to get all the other ingredients together and set them aside so that when I need them, I just need to scoop them into the pot. After all, there is still a lot that needs to be done.
- No chicken stock? No problem. Just dissolve one chicken bouillon cube in one cup of hot water, and voila! Instant chicken stock. 🙂
- wash the veggies, then set aside to dry a bit
- peel and chop the garlic
- peel and chop the onion
- unwrap and slice the chicken franks
- unwrap and slice the Chorizo de Bilbao
- peel and slice the potato
- peel and slice the carrot
- slice the bell peppers, removing the seeds
- pop the can of sliced mushrooms and drain
Slow is good.
There are quite a few recipes that call for high or medium-high heat, and that is usually how I start because I want to get the pan or pot nice and hot when I have to saute first. But once I have the meat in the pan, I usually bring it down from high to medium-high. Later, when the juices come out, I bring it down to medium-low to simmer. Cooking at too high temperatures might cook the food faster, but we miss out on the flavor and tenderness of the dish.
When cooking stews, medium-low and low heat are good once you get a good simmer. Trust me, it takes a little longer, but the results are quite gratifying.
If you don’t enjoy cooking, it may seem like a lot to do. Personally, I find cooking therapeutic and seeing (and hearing) my family enjoying what I prepared makes me happy.
Chicken pastel
Prep Time30 minutes mins
Cook Time40 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Filipino, Spanish
Keyword: chicken, entree
Servings: 6
Author: Penny Angeles-Tan
- 1 kg chicken chopped
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 lemon or 1-2 kalamansi
- 2 tbsps. cooking oil
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 onion
- 1 piece Chorizo de Bilbao
- 1 cup chicken stock You can substitute with 1 cup hot water plus 1 Knorr chicken cube.
- 4 pieces chicken franks sliced
- 1 large potato cut into wedges
- 1 piece carrot cut into wedges
- 1 cup all-purpose cream You can substitute it with evaporated milk.
- 1 red bell pepper cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 green bell pepper cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms I like to use champignons.
- salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Wash the chicken cut-ups and place them in a container. Pour over the soy sauce and lemon/kalamansi and mix. Let it sit for 30 minutes to marinate. Set aside.
Peel and chop the other solid ingredients. Set aside.
Cooking
In a pot, saute the garlic and onion in some oil.
When onions are softened, add in the Chorizo de Bilbao.
Add the marinated chicken and lay it out evenly at the bottom of the pan to cook evenly. Scoop the sauteed garlic, onion, and Chorizo de Bilbao on top of the chicken so that they do not overcook or burn. The goal here is to LIGHTLY BROWN the chicken, not fry it. Lower the heat slightly and cover. You will notice that the chicken will not appear fried but will produce a "soup" instead if you do this. Make sure to turn the chicken as you don't want only one side to brown.
If you have more chicken pieces than space, do them in batches. When the first batch is lightly browned on both sides, put in the remaining chicken and place the first batch on top of them. Don't forget to cover. This step should take around 5 to 10 minutes.
Add the sliced chicken franks and chicken stock. Lower the heat and let it simmer covered for 20 minutes.
Add the potato, carrot, and cream. Mix, then simmer covered for another 8 minutes.
Add the bell peppers and mushroom, mix, and cook for another 3 minutes.
Turn off the heat and just let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Nov 12, 2023 | Business
Ms. Krystal Tecson-Garalde, CEO of Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center, led the team in a solemn mini-event to open the brand’s 10th clinic. The DS’ management team, clinic personnel, and some brand ambassadors attended the ribbon-cutting event on the 3rd floor Armal Plaza Building, C. Raymundo, Pasig, November 7.
Ms. Vivien Tecson-Cadivida, DS’ COO, officially welcomed all the attendees. “We’re so happy to have you here today, and thank you for being part of our story. Today marks the beginning of our Next Chapter,” Tecson-Cadivida cheerfully said. She also added that change can be frightening at times but is considered a natural part of life that we should always embrace.
Mr. Kenneth Tecson, owner, Brand CMO, and Campaign/Project Head, graced the event and delivered his heartfelt message to everyone. “Self-love is at the heart of this latest chapter, and we genuinely believe that each person is unique in their own way. At Dear Self, we aim to give you the confidence to appreciate the amazing person that you are and to embrace your beauty from the inside out,” Mr. Tecson remarked.
On the other hand, the faces of Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center were present at the event. Boomboom Neri, Showtime Grace, and Showtime Amina were all happy to be part of the growing Dear Self Family.
“Sobrang happy ko na part ako ng Dear Self, dahil I had another family to rely on. Sobrang tinutulungan nila ako dito, especially to build my personality, para mas maayos akongm akaharap sa mga tao. The best dito sa Dear Self, they know what they are doing, at seryoso sila sa ginagawa nila, thank you so much and more power!” BoomBoom Neri of It’s Showtime said when asked about her message to the brand.
Furthermore, everyone who joined the small celebration was invited to experience the Dear Self Pasig services firsthand while enjoying the celebratory banquet. A drip and facial party were prepared for everyone, plus the newest massage chair feature of the clinic from Gintell Philippines.
“With Dear Self’s newfound home, we promise to be true to our goal — making each one feel that we all deserve to be loved so we don’t need to feel that we are no one,” Ms. Tecson-Garalde ended the event.
Welcome to the Next Chapter
Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center has proven once again that strong business goals, anchored with the management’s heart toward its people and clients despite all shortcomings and obstacles, can bring continuous success – a silver lining!
We will expect more clinics to open this last quarter of the year. The construction of the Dasmarinas Cavite branch is now in full swing, while the Kapitolyo branch will be furnished soon.
“Looking forward to continuing our service, to deliver and to make the best- better, because we always need to elevate our standard, kahit tingin natin nasa best na tayo, we still need to find where to improve. Hangga’t andito ang Dear Self, we can always expect the best quality of service for everyone,” Mr. Christian Tecson, DS’ CFO, said in his inspiring message.
Visit Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center 10 branches today!
Check out these pages to know more:
- Website: https://dearselfaesthetic.center/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dearselfaestheticandwellness
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearselfaesthetic/
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Nov 10, 2023 | Events
As I entered the lobby of The Manila Hotel yesterday, it was impossible for me not to notice the large Christmas tree decorated in ribbons, bows, and balls in gold and red. Interspersed within its branches are twinkly lights that are unlit. But then, that is what I was there for … to see the tree when the Christmas lights are turned on. For The Manila Hotel, this will officially signal the start of the Christmas season.
The event begins with some Christmas carols sung by the Chorale of the Office of the President. As a choir member myself, I highly appreciate the effort they put in and I also couldn’t help but wince whenever I heard someone go out of tune. That being said, I think they gave a joyful performance!
I would have appreciated it more if not for the group of older women who somehow chose to stand around me when the event started and were chatting loudly amongst themselves. Sigh. How disrespectful! However, I was raised to show respect to my elders, no matter how rude THEY were, and just bit my tongue and tried to sidle away slowly and closer to the choir so that I can hear them more, and the chatty biddies less.
I looked over at them just to get a good look and since we were all wearing the same badges I couldn’t help but surmise that they, too, were members of the press. If I had to guess, they were probably from trad media and bosses (or bosses’ wives) as they gave off that kind of air. It doesn’t excuse the rudeness, though. Sigh again.
To be honest, that was the only blemish on an otherwise wonderful afternoon.
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuña
The Manila Hotel President, Atty. Joey Lina
Welcome messages were given by Atty. Joey Lina, President of the Manila Hotel, and Manila Mayor Honey Lacuña.
As far as I know, The Manila Hotel was the first hotel to light up their tree for 2023. Unlit the tree was already beautiful but after several dignitaries were called in front each one stood in front of a podium that had a big red button.
After a countdown, each one pressed their red button simultaneously and the big, beautiful, gold-bedecked tree lit up!
Christmas truly comes early in the Philippines!
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Nov 9, 2023 | Discounts, Sales, and Giveaways
The Manila Hotel unveils its exquisite Christmas Hamper selection that embodies the essence of thoughtfulness and indulgence. Specially crafted to spread holiday cheer, each hamper is brimming with a variety of signature treats and goodies that will surely delight your loved ones.
For those eager to secure these festive treasures early, The Manila Hotel is offering an early bird offer starting from October 25 to November 30, 2023. Choose from three distinct selections, each one tailored to suit different tastes and preferences.
Standard Hamper – Php 2,000 net early bird offer
- ‘Harana’ Pralines in Sinamay Box (9 pieces)
- ‘Wangis’ (The Manila Hotel façade chocolate bar)
- Santa Claus Chocolate (small)
- Christmas Cookies
- Fruit Cake (small)
- Gingerbread Man (big)
Deluxe Hamper – Php 3,200 net early bird offer
- Santa Ana Cabernet Sauvignon or Santa Ana Chardonnay (375 ml)
- ‘Wangis’ (The Manila Hotel façade chocolate bar)
- Christmas Cookies
- Gingerbread Man (big)
- Matte Gold Pralines(10 pieces)
- Assorted Nut Cluster
- Santa Claus Chocolate(big)
- Fruit Cake (big)
- Food for the Gods
Premium Hamper – Php 4,000 net early bird offer
- The Manila Hotel Regular Prestige Card
- The Manila Hotel Willy the Bear
- Pico Andino Cabernet (750ml)
- Pralines (6 pieces)
- Santa Claus Chocolate (medium)
- The Manila Hotel Coffee Drip
- The Manila Hotel Chocolate Bar with Almonds
- Banana Thins
These Christmas Hampers will be available at the regular rate of Php 2,500 net, Php 4,000 net, and Php 5,000 net, respectively, from December 1, 2023, to January 7, 2024.
For orders and inquiries, please call (+632) 8527-0011 or (+632) 5301-5500 or email re************@************el.com.
Terms and conditions apply.
DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-178795 Series of 2023
About The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel is situated in the heart of the City of Manila. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel maintains to be the choice hotel of the most distinguished clientele. Over the years, The Manila Hotel continuously provides the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three (3) ballrooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with the Manila Hotel Spa, adult and children’s pools, and the Manila Hotel Health Club.
The hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate its illustrious past. It also has an Art Gallery that offers a window into a contemporary world, captured through the objective point of view of different artists.
It has six (6) dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang, which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila—it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessens that offers the hotel’s signature pastries, bread, chocolates, and pralines.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 20, 2023 | Business
When building a home, everyone dreams of being able to create a space that they truly love. Whether this means having a house that reflects your unique personality or a space that gives you a sense of true serenity, this can easily be achieved by carefully choosing the colors and finishes of your furniture. With the newly launched finishes by American Standard – Polished Cool Sunrise, Brushed Hard Graphite, and Matte Black, consumers are now able to add a more personal touch to their bathroom spaces.
Every color has a story. Which one fits yours?
Polished Cool Sunrise
Polished Cool Sunrise adds more sophistication and a touch of vibrant color to your bathroom.
The timeless beauty of Polished Cool Sunrise will brighten up your home. Whether you prefer a more sophisticated feel or want a touch of vibrant color in your bathroom, this bright gold polish can infuse your space with a comforting glow that will match what you’re looking for. With this color, light gracefully dances across its glossy finish, which helps you create a warm and joyful ambiance in your home.
Brushed Hard Graphite
The stunning Brushed Hard Graphite shade and its rich grey hue and textured finish create an atmosphere of zen and tranquility.
For those who want to transform their bathroom space, the stunning Brushed Hard Graphite shade and its rich grey hue and textured finish are perfect. If you pair this finish with dark or earth tones, this will create an atmosphere of Zen and tranquility in any room. However, if you’re looking to add more unique character to your home, its industrial-inspired look and refined appearance can also effortlessly balance style and functionality.
Matte Black
The striking beauty of Matte Black helps you escape the noise of everyday life within your home.
The striking beauty of Matte Black helps you escape the noise of everyday life within your home. This finish can either help you set a bold statement or establish understated elegance — all because of its rugged all-black texture that exudes a commanding presence and leaves a lasting impression.
Elevate your bathroom with Acacia Evolution and EasySet
All three-color finishes are available in the Acacia Evolution faucets, EasySet Concealed Auto Temperature Mixer, and EasySet Exposed Auto Temperature and select accessories.
Elevate the look and feel of the bathroom with the modern, minimalistic, clean lines of Acacia Evolution fittings. With EcoStart, the Acacia Evolution faucet releases cold water instead of warm water upon lifting the lever, saving you up to 30% of precious energy as it prevents the boiler from heating up. To get hot water, you will only need to move the lever to the left, and by providing a resistance midway when lifting the lever, ClickMove gives you better water volume control, saving you water. Lastly, ComfortMove provides smooth handle performance for optimal precision and comfort.
The EasySet Auto Temperature Mixers, which come in both Concealed and Exposed variants, will elevate your showering experience to a whole new level of comfort. Adjust the water temperature and volume with a simple push and turn to pamper yourself with a shower at a constant and comfortable temperature with ThermoComfort, even when cold water is used elsewhere in the house. Prevent accidental scalding, especially for the young and elderly, with ThermoSafe, which caps water temperature at 49° Celsius and shuts off when cold water supply fails. As an added precaution, the EasySet Exposed Auto Temperature Mixer features CoolShield to ensure the faucet body is always cool to the touch to prevent any instances of scalding when coming into contact.
If you’re building your first home or planning an upgrade to your current homestead, the bathroom space design plays an important role in your wellness experience at home. Choosing mood-boosting colors for you and your family can transform your basic toilet and bath into a personal sanctuary – something that you will love to come home to every day—a space you and your family will enjoy being in.
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About American Standard
American Standard is the industry leader in bathroom and kitchen products, providing an unmatched legacy of quality and innovation for almost 150 years. American Standard is passionate about improving daily living in ways big and small. From toilet seat innovations to best-in-class kitchen faucets, American Standard seeks to inspire people to create a home they will love every day.
About Lixil
LIXIL (TSE Code 5938) makes pioneering water and housing products that solve everyday, real-life challenges, making better homes a reality for everyone, everywhere. Drawing on our Japanese heritage, we create world-leading technology and innovate to make high-quality products that transform homes. But the LIXIL difference is how we do this: through meaningful design, an entrepreneurial spirit, a dedication to improving accessibility for all, and responsible business growth. Our approach comes to life through industry-leading brands, including INAX, GROHE, American Standard, and TOSTEM. Approximately 55,000 colleagues operating in more than 150 countries are proud to make products that touch the lives of more than a billion people every day. Learn more at www.lixil.com.ph
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