Easy Pastil Recipe: Mindanao’s Flavorful Rice Wrap

Pastil is a simple yet flavorful Filipino rice dish popular in Mindanao, especially among the Maguindanaon people.

It features steamed rice topped with flaked chicken, beef, or fish that’s seasoned and cooked to perfection, all wrapped in banana leaves.

Often enjoyed as a quick, convenient meal, pastil is cherished for its rich flavor, portability, and versatility.

Equipment Needed

Medium frying pan

Wooden spoon or spatula

Banana leaves (optional for wrapping)

Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

1 cup cooked rice

1/2 lb (250 g) chicken breast or thigh, shredded

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp oyster sauce

Salt and pepper, to taste

Banana leaves for wrapping (optional)

Directions

Preparation time: 10 minutes, Cooking time: 20 minutes, Total time: Approximately 30 minutes

Prepare the Chicken: In a medium frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant.

Cook the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Stir to combine, cooking until the chicken is well-coated and evenly browned, about 8–10 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.

Assemble the Pastil: Place a serving of cooked rice on a piece of banana leaf (if using). Top it with a portion of the cooked chicken. If desired, wrap the banana leaf around the rice and chicken to form a neat package.

Serve: Serve warm, with additional banana leaves for wrapping if you plan to pack it for on-the-go meals.

How to Serve

Pastil is traditionally served wrapped in banana leaves, which adds a subtle aroma and makes it easy to eat with your hands.

You can serve it alongside fresh cucumber slices, tomatoes, or a side of soy sauce for extra flavor. For variation, you can substitute chicken with beef or fish, or even try minced vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Final Word

Pastil is a wonderful way to enjoy a delicious, portable meal packed with flavor.

It’s simple, easy to make, and brings a taste of Mindanao’s culinary heritage to your kitchen. Enjoy!