Secret ingredient revealed! elevate your binagoongan pork with this one simple trick

Binagoongan pork is a beloved Filipino dish that tantalizes taste buds with its savory, umami-rich flavors. This dish is a staple in many Filipino households and is often served during special occasions and gatherings. If you’re looking to impress your family and friends with a delicious and authentic Filipino meal, look no further than this binagoongan pork recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound pork shoulder or belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup fermented shrimp paste (bagoong alamang)
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped garlic
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the pork: In a bowl, combine the pork pieces with the bagoong, onions, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, water, black pepper, and bay leaf. Mix well to ensure that the pork is evenly coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok over medium heat, add the cooking oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers.
3. Sauté the pork: Add the marinated pork to the hot oil and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the pork is browned on all sides.
4. Reduce heat and simmer: Reduce the heat to low and add 1/2 cup of water. Cover the skillet and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Adjust seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may add more bagoong for a stronger shrimp flavor or more vinegar for a tangier taste.
6. Garnish and serve: Once the pork is cooked, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh and vibrant presentation. Serve hot with rice or your favorite side dishes.

Tips for the Perfect Binagoongan Pork:

• Choose the right pork: Pork shoulder or belly is the best cut for binagoongan pork as it has a good amount of fat that adds flavor and richness to the dish.

• Use high-quality bagoong: The quality of the bagoong will greatly impact the flavor of your binagoongan pork. Look for a bagoong that is dark in color and has a strong, pungent aroma.

• Don’t overcook the pork: Overcooking the pork will make it tough and chewy. Simmer the pork until it is tender but still has a slight bite to it.

Variations on the Classic Binagoongan Pork:

• Spicy binagoongan pork: Add 1-2 chopped chili peppers to the marinade for a spicy kick.

• Sweet binagoongan pork: Add 1/4 cup of brown sugar or honey to the marinade for a sweeter flavor.

• Vegetable binagoongan pork: Add chopped vegetables such as green beans, carrots, or bell peppers to the dish for a healthier and more colorful meal.

Serving Suggestions:

• Steamed rice: Binagoongan pork is traditionally served with steamed rice, which helps to absorb the delicious sauce.

• Other side dishes: You can also serve binagoongan pork with other side dishes such as fried eggplant, boiled spinach, or sautéed vegetables.

Nutritional Information:

One serving of binagoongan pork (1 cup) contains approximately:

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

The Health Benefits of Binagoongan Pork:

• Good source of protein: Pork is a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.

• Contains essential vitamins and minerals: Binagoongan pork contains vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are important for overall health.

Popular Questions

Q: What is the difference between bagoong and alamang?
A: Bagoong is a fermented shrimp paste, while alamang is a type of small shrimp. Bagoong is made by fermenting alamang in salt for several months.
Q: Can I use shrimp paste instead of bagoong?
A: Yes, you can use shrimp paste instead of bagoong, but the flavor will be slightly different. Shrimp paste is not as pungent as bagoong, so you may need to use a bit more to achieve the same flavor intensity.
Q: Can I make binagoongan pork ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make binagoongan pork ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld together even more over time, making the dish even more delicious.
Q: What are some other Filipino dishes that use bagoong?
A: Bagoong is a versatile ingredient used in many Filipino dishes, including kare-kare, sinigang, and paksiw.
Q: Is binagoongan pork spicy?
A: Traditional binagoongan pork is not spicy, but you can add chili peppers to the marinade if you prefer a spicy dish.