Binagoongang Baboy

Binagoongang Baboy Recipe - A Delicious Filipino Pork Dish

Region / culture: Philippines | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Binagoongang Baboy is a classic Filipino dish known for its bold flavors, primarily due to the use of bagoong, or fermented shrimp paste. This dish combines the savory taste of pork with the unique, salty flavor of bagoong, along with a hint of sweetness and the freshness of tomatoes, garlic, and onions. It's a hearty and comforting dish that's often served with rice, making it a staple in Filipino households.

History

The origins of Binagoongang Baboy can be traced back to the culinary traditions of the Philippines, where fermentation and the use of bagoong have been a part of the culture for centuries. Bagoong is made by fermenting fish or shrimp with salt, and it's a common ingredient in many Filipino dishes. Binagoongang Baboy, which literally means "pork in shrimp paste," is a testament to the Filipino people's creativity in using local ingredients to create dishes with rich, complex flavors.

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil
0.25 cup chopped garlic
0.25 cup chopped onion
0.25 cup coarsely chopped tomatoes
1 and 0.5 lb (227 g) boneless pork shoulder, cut into cubes
0.75 cup water
0.5 tsp sugar
4 tbsp bagoong (shrimp paste)

How to prepare

1. Heat oil in a large skillet.
2. Sauté garlic, onion, and tomatoes until they become soft.
3. Add the pork and cook until it turns brown.
4. Add water and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Add sugar and bagoong, and continue simmering while stirring occasionally for another 15 minutes or until the pork becomes tender.
6. Serve hot with boiled rice.

Variations

For a spicier version, add chopped chili peppers or a teaspoon of chili flakes while sautéing the garlic, onions, and tomatoes.
Some versions of the recipe include adding coconut milk for a creamier texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
Vegetarians can substitute pork with tofu or tempeh and use a vegetarian bagoong made from fermented beans.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture for your Binagoongang Baboy, here are some tips:

- Use a cut of pork with a bit of fat, like pork shoulder, for a more flavorful and tender result.

- Sautéing the garlic, onion, and tomatoes until they're soft before adding the pork helps to build a flavorful base for the dish.

- Simmering the pork slowly and gently allows it to become tender and absorb the flavors of the bagoong and other ingredients.

- Adjust the amount of bagoong based on your taste preference and the saltiness of the bagoong you're using.

Serving Suggestions

Binagoongang Baboy is best served hot with a side of steamed white rice to balance its strong flavors. A side of sliced green mangoes or a simple vegetable salad can also complement the dish's richness.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in making Binagoongang Baboy include sautéing and simmering. Sautéing the aromatics and pork helps to develop deep flavors, while simmering allows the meat to become tender and absorb the savory bagoong.

Ingredient Substitutions

If bagoong is not available, a combination of fish sauce and a little bit of miso paste can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

- Pork shoulder can be substituted with pork belly for a fattier version or with chicken for a lighter version.

Make Ahead Tips

Binagoongang Baboy can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen when the dish is allowed to rest, making it even more delicious the next day.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Binagoongang Baboy in a traditional Filipino serving dish or a simple, deep bowl to highlight its rustic appeal. Garnish with slices of green onions or a wedge of lime for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A cold, crisp beer or a glass of dry white wine pairs well with the salty, savory flavors of Binagoongang Baboy. For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled glass of calamansi juice complements the dish's richness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm the dish in a pan over low heat, adding a little water if necessary to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Binagoongang Baboy contains approximately 300-400 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients and their quantities.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Binagoongang Baboy contains approximately 10-15 grams of carbohydrates, mainly from the onions, tomatoes, and sugar. The exact amount can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and their quantities.

Fats

This dish is relatively high in fats due to the pork and vegetable oil used in cooking. A serving can contain around 20-30 grams of fat, with a significant portion being saturated fat from the pork. Using leaner cuts of pork or reducing the amount of oil can lower the fat content.

Proteins

Binagoongang Baboy is a good source of protein, providing about 20-25 grams per serving. The protein comes primarily from the pork, making this dish a hearty and filling option.

Vitamins and minerals

The dish provides various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from tomatoes, Vitamin B6, and selenium from pork. The amounts of these nutrients can vary, but they contribute to the overall nutritional value of the meal.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this dish is shrimp (from the bagoong), which can be a concern for individuals with shellfish allergies. It's also important to note that this dish contains garlic and onions, which some people may be sensitive to.

Summary

Overall, Binagoongang Baboy is a flavorful dish that provides a good balance of proteins and fats, along with some carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. However, it's relatively high in calories and fats, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Binagoongang Baboy is a beloved Filipino dish that showcases the unique flavors of bagoong and the comforting richness of pork. With its deep, savory taste and hearty texture, it's a satisfying meal that's perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you're a long-time fan or trying it for the first time, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly as I walked through the bustling market in my hometown. I had always loved exploring the market, the vibrant colors and bustling energy never failed to excite me.

As I browsed through the stalls, my eyes fell upon a particular vendor selling fresh cuts of pork. The meat looked so succulent and juicy, I couldn't resist buying some. As I chatted with the vendor, he mentioned a special recipe for Binagoongang Baboy that his grandmother used to make. Intrigued, I asked him to share the recipe with me.

He smiled warmly and began to recount the ingredients and steps involved in making this traditional Filipino dish. He talked about how the pork is marinated in shrimp paste, garlic, and vinegar, then stir-fried with tomatoes and onions until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together perfectly. My mouth watered just thinking about it.

I thanked the vendor profusely and hurried home to try out the recipe. The aroma of the shrimp paste mixed with the sizzling pork filled my kitchen, transporting me back to my childhood. I remembered how my own grandmother used to cook for our family, her hands moving deftly as she prepared our favorite dishes with love and care.

As I took my first bite of the Binagoongang Baboy, I was flooded with memories of her. The flavors were rich and savory, the perfect combination of salty and tangy. I knew I had to learn more about this recipe and its origins.

Over the years, I sought out different versions of the recipe from friends, family members, and even strangers I met along my travels. Each person had their own unique twist on the dish, adding special ingredients or cooking techniques that made it truly their own.

One day, I had the opportunity to visit a small village in the Philippines where I met a kind elderly woman who was known for her exceptional cooking skills. She graciously invited me into her home and shared her recipe for Binagoongang Baboy with me.

As she cooked, she told me stories of her own grandmother who had passed down the recipe through generations. She spoke of the importance of preserving traditional dishes and passing on culinary knowledge to younger generations. I listened intently, absorbing every detail of her cooking process and the history behind the dish.

After spending a few days with the woman, learning from her and sharing meals together, I felt a deep connection to the recipe and the culture it represented. I realized that cooking was not just about following a set of instructions, but about honoring the past and creating memories for the future.

Now, whenever I make Binagoongang Baboy, I think of all the people who have shared their recipes with me and the stories behind them. Each time I cook this dish, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting bonds.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Binagoongang Baboy with my family, I feel grateful for the culinary journey that has brought me to this moment. The flavors dance on my tongue, the memories flood my mind, and I am filled with a sense of contentment and joy. Cooking this dish has become more than just a recipe, it is a celebration of love, tradition, and the beauty of sharing food with the ones we hold dear.