Pork in Shrimp Paste
Introduction
Pork in Shrimp Paste, or Pork Binagoongan as it’s lovingly called in the Philippines, is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of rich flavors and cultural heritage. This dish boasts a vibrant fusion of succulent pork and the umami goodness of shrimp paste, delivering a taste experience that resonates on many levels. What makes Pork in Shrimp Paste special is its unique balance of savory, salty, and slightly sweet flavors, all brought together by the creaminess of coconut milk. Imagine sitting around a table with family and friends, the aroma of this delectable dish wafting through the air, inviting everyone to dig in and savor moments together. It’s not just food; it’s a heartwarming experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatility: Pork in Shrimp Paste can be served with rice, noodles, or even fresh vegetables, making it a great dish for various occasions and preferences.
Ease of Preparation: Despite its rich and complex flavors, this recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. It’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Taste Explosion: The combination of succulent pork, salty shrimp paste, and creamy coconut results in a symphony of flavours
that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite is an adventure!
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable ingredients, this dish offers incredible value for its rich taste, allowing you to create a feast without breaking the bank.
Comfort Food: The hearty and satisfying nature of Pork in Shrimp Paste makes it a go-to comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Main Components Breakdown
Pork Belly: The star of the dish, pork belly is known for its tenderness and rich flavor. When cooked, it becomes melt-in-your-mouth delicious and soaks up flavors beautifully. Look for cuts with a good amount of fat for the best results.
Shrimp Paste (Bagoong): This savory ingredient is what gives the dish its distinct flavor. Made from fermented shrimp, it adds a depth of umami that is hard to replicate. Use a high-quality shrimp paste for the best taste.
Coconut Milk: Creamy and rich, coconut milk balances the saltiness of the shrimp paste and adds a luxurious texture to the sauce. Its natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile.
Onions and Garlic: Essential aromatic ingredients, they provide a wonderful base for the dish. Sautéing them releases their natural sweetness, elevating the flavor.
Green Chilies: These add a touch of heat that can be adjusted according to your preference. They bring color and brightness to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the pork belly into cubes, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the green chilies.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
Brown the Pork: Add the pork cubes to the pan, cooking until they are browned on all sides (approximately 5-7 minutes).
Add Shrimp Paste: Stir in the shrimp paste and green chilies, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Simmer with Coconut Milk: Pour in 1 cup of coconut milk, bring to a simmer, and cook on low heat for 20-30 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
Season: Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serve: Once ready, serve hot over a bed of rice or noodles, garnished with extra chilies if desired.
How to Serve
Pork in Shrimp Paste is best served hot and fresh, straight from the stove. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the rich sauce. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad or grilled vegetables to balance the meal. For an added touch, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to prevent drying out. You can also use the microwave, heating in short bursts to ensure even reheating.
Prep-Ahead Options: You can chop the ingredients a day in advance, making the cooking process faster when you’re ready to prepare the dish.
Pro Tips & Tricks
Taste Test: Always taste the sauce as it cooks to adjust the seasoning accordingly. If it’s too salty, a little more coconut milk can help.
Common Pitfalls: Avoid overcooking the pork; it should be tender but not falling apart.
Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have shrimp paste, you can use fish sauce as an alternative, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Time-Saving Tips: Use a pressure cooker for quicker cooking time. Additionally, pre-cook rice while the pork simmers to streamline the process.
Recipe Variations
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the pork with tofu or a mix of sturdy vegetables like eggplant and mushrooms.
Seasonal Adaptations: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Regional Variations: In some regions, additional ingredients like tomatoes or potatoes may be added to enhance the dish further.
Ingredient Swaps: Experiment with different meats such as chicken or beef for diverse flavors.
Comprehensive FAQ Section
Can I use a different cut of pork?
- Yes, you can use pork shoulder or loin, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don’t like shrimp paste?
- You can use fish sauce or omit it entirely, though it will change the overall flavor.
Can I make this dish spicier?
- Absolutely! Add more green chilies or even include red pepper flakes for extra heat.
How long does this dish last in the fridge?
- It’s best consumed within 3-4 days.
Can I freeze Pork in Shrimp Paste?
- Yes, it freezes well. Store in airtight containers, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What can I serve with this dish?
- Serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or a side salad.
Can I make it ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare the dish and refrigerate; just reheat before serving.
What if the sauce is too salty?
- Add more coconut milk or a little sugar to balance the saltiness.
Are there gluten-free options?
- Yes! Ensure that ingredients like shrimp paste and fish sauce are certified gluten-free.
How do I adjust this recipe for larger gatherings?
- Simply double the ingredients and increase the cooking time as necessary, ensuring to monitor the dish for doneness.
Pork in Shrimp Paste is a dish that promises not just flavor, but a connection to culture and warmth, making every meal a shared memory. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Authentic Pork in Shrimp Paste – A Filipino Classic
Equipment
- Large pan or skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork belly cubed
- 2 tbsp shrimp paste bagoong
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 green chilies sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cook until fragrant.
- 2️⃣ Brown the Pork: Add pork belly cubes, cooking until lightly browned.
- 3️⃣ Add Shrimp Paste & Chilies: Stir in shrimp paste and green chilies, cook for 3-5 minutes.
- 4️⃣ Simmer with Coconut Milk: Pour in coconut milk, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for 20-30 minutes until the pork is tender and the sauce thickens.
- 5️⃣ Season & Serve: Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot with steamed rice.
Nutrition
I LOVE IT
I absolutely love Panera Bread’s Chicken Salad! It’s the perfect blend of fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. The chicken is always tender and well-seasoned, and the combination of crisp celery, crunchy pecans, and sweet grapes creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully without being too heavy.
Whether I have it on a sandwich, with a side salad, or just by itself, it never disappoints. It’s a great option for a light yet satisfying meal. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a refreshing and tasty chicken salad.
source: https://www.allrecipes.com/search?q=Pork+in+Shrimp+Paste