Pork Binagoongan
Pork Binagoongan
Contents
Pork Binagoongan is a savory Filipino dish made with tender pork belly simmered in shrimp paste (bagoong), garlic, onions, tomatoes, and vinegar. Known for its bold umami and salty-sweet flavors, it’s a staple Filipino comfort food often served with steamed rice and fried eggplant for contrast.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 kg pork belly, cut into slices
- 4 tbsp shrimp paste (bagoong alamang)
- 5 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 3 tbsp vinegar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Pepper to taste
- 2–3 cups water
- Red and green chilies (optional)
- Eggplant, sliced and fried (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Alamang: Wash the shrimp paste to remove excess salt. Set aside.
- Sear the Pork: Heat a pan without oil. Add pork belly slices and sear until lightly browned and fat renders. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the rendered fat, sauté garlic, onions, and tomatoes until softened. Gently crush tomatoes to release their juices.
- Add Alamang: Add the washed shrimp paste and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
- Pour Vinegar: Add vinegar and let it simmer without stirring for 2 minutes to evaporate the raw taste. Then stir.
- Combine Pork: Add the seared pork and toss to coat with the mixture.
- Simmer: Pour 2–3 cups of water, season with pepper and soy sauce, and cover. Simmer for 30–45 minutes or until pork is tender.
- Optional Eggplant: While the pork cooks, fry eggplant slices (optional).
- Finish: Add sugar and chilies (if using). Cook until the sauce reduces and thickens.
- Serve: Add fried eggplant (optional), stir to coat, and transfer to a serving plate. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Tips and Notes
- Shrimp Paste: Taste bagoong before using—some varieties are saltier than others. Adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Pork Belly: If unavailable, use pork shoulder or other fatty cuts for tenderness.
- Sweetness: Adjust sugar to balance the saltiness of the shrimp paste.
- Spice Level: Add chilies for extra heat or omit them for a milder flavor.
FAQ
What can I use instead of shrimp paste?
Miso paste or a mix of soy sauce and fish sauce can substitute, though the flavor will differ.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to a month. Thaw and reheat gently.
What to serve with Pork Binagoongan?
Pair with steamed rice, fried eggplant, green mangoes, or a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Why is my pork tough?
To ensure tenderness, simmer the pork until fork-tender, usually 30–45 minutes.
Related guides
- Bicol Express: Classic Filipino Recipe
- Crispy Pata Recipe: A Complete Guide to Filipino Deep-Fried Pork Leg
- Dinakdakan: A Creamy and Tangy Filipino Pork Dish
- Filipino Lechon: Whole Roasted Pig
- Lechon Kawali Recipe: Crispy Filipino Pork Belly