Craving a flavorful and satisfying Filipino dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than Pork Guisantes! This beloved recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients transformed into a delicious masterpiece. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Pork Guisantes boasts tender pork belly simmered in a rich sauce with sweet peas – a delightful combination of savory and sweet. This recipe offers a fantastic introduction to homemade cooking, even for those new to Filipino cuisine.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities according to your needs.
- 1 lb pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- Cooking oil
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Culinary Journey
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Sizzle the Pork: Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes on all sides. This step helps to develop a richer flavor and lovely texture. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer to Perfection: Return the browned pork to the pot. Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, soy sauce, sugar, fish sauce (if using), black pepper, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the pork is incredibly tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Pea Power: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Let them heat through and become tender.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Serve your Pork Guisantes hot with steamed rice. This is a complete and balanced meal, perfect for a satisfying and delicious dinner.
Cooking Tips for Extra Deliciousness
- Pork Selection: Using pork belly provides the best flavor and texture, but you can substitute with pork shoulder for a leaner option.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. Some prefer a slightly sweeter dish, while others may prefer it less sweet.
- Fish Sauce: Fish sauce is optional but adds a unique umami flavor that elevates the dish. If you're unsure, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the dish uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid.
Variations: Explore the Possibilities
- Spicy Pork Guisantes: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Boost: Include other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans along with the peas.
- Shrimp Addition: Add cooked shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking for extra protein and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Pork Guisantes recipe is a delightful exploration of Filipino flavors. It’s a healthy meal, easy to make, and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the deliciousness!