Authentic Filipino Binagoongan Recipe

Ingredients

1 kilogram Pork belly, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
1/2 cup Shrimp paste (bagoong alamang)
6 pieces Thai chili (siling labuyo), chopped
6 cloves Garlic, minced
1 large Onion, chopped
3 medium Tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup Vinegar
3 tablespoons Sugar
1 teaspoon Ground black pepper
2 cups Water
3 tablespoons Cooking oil
2 pieces Eggplant, sliced
2 pieces Raw mangoes (optional), sliced
1 bunch String beans (optional), ends trimmed

Steps and instructions

Heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add the pork belly pieces, and fry until all sides are brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté the garlic, onions, and tomatoes until soft and fragrant.
Add the shrimp paste and chili, and stir well to combine. Cook for a couple of minutes until the shrimp paste is heated through and well-blended with the other ingredients.
Add the fried pork belly back into the pan, and mix well to coat the pork with the shrimp paste mixture.
Stir in the vinegar and let it simmer without stirring until the smell of the vinegar dissipates.
Add the water, sugar, and ground black pepper. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 40 minutes or until the pork is tender and the flavors are well-absorbed.
If using, add the sliced eggplant, raw mangoes, and string beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Stir well to combine and cook until these vegetables are tender.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the Binagoongan hot with steamed rice.

Tools for making

Large pan - A pan with enough capacity to hold all the ingredients.
Cooking oil - Used for frying the pork belly and sautéing the other ingredients.
Spatula - To stir and mix the ingredients in the pan.
Knife - For chopping the garlic, onions, tomatoes, and other vegetables.
Cutting board - To provide a surface for chopping and preparing the ingredients.
Measuring cups - For accurate measurement of ingredients like vinegar, sugar, and water.
Stove - To provide heat for cooking the dish.
Cover or lid - To cover the pan and simmer the dish.
Plate or bowl - For holding the cooked Binagoongan before serving.

Recipe variations

Replace pork belly with chicken thighs or beef cubes for a different protein option.
Add vegetables like okra, bitter melon, or squash to make it a more hearty and nutritious dish.
For a spicier kick, add more chili peppers or use a spicier variety.
Include pineapple chunks or pineapple juice to add a hint of sweetness and tanginess to the dish.
For a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute the pork with tofu or tempeh and use vegetarian shrimp paste.
Experiment with different types of vinegar such as coconut vinegar, cane vinegar, or apple cider vinegar to vary the flavor profile.
Add coconut milk for a creamier and richer version of Binagoongan.
For a healthier option, use lean cuts of meat and reduce the amount of oil and sugar used.
Try marinating the pork belly or meat of choice in soy sauce, garlic, and calamansi or lemon juice before cooking to add more depth of flavor.

Recipe overview

Discover the savory delight of Binagoongan, a traditional Filipino dish known for its bold and delectable flavors. This recipe involves tender cubes of pork belly sautéed with shrimp paste, also known as bagoong, and a medley of aromatic spices. A dash of chili adds a spicy kick, while the addition of eggplant, raw mangoes, and string beans lends a beautiful balance to the dish. The recipe is relatively straightforward and can be accomplished in a few simple steps. Expect to be captivated by the enticing aroma as you cook, followed by the irresistible taste of the finished dish. Whether you're familiar with Filipino cuisine or trying it for the first time, Binagoongan is sure to impress. Enjoy it hot, served over a bed of steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Common questions

Can I use other types of meat instead of pork belly?
Yes, you can use other cuts of pork like pork shoulder or pork loin as a substitute for pork belly in this recipe.
Is it necessary to use shrimp paste?
Yes, shrimp paste (bagoong alamang) is a key ingredient in Binagoongan as it adds a distinct flavor. However, if you have allergies or preferences, you can omit it or use a suitable substitute like fish sauce.
Can I adjust the level of spiciness?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of Thai chili (siling labuyo) or omit it altogether. If you want it spicier, you can add more chilis according to your preference.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables like eggplant, raw mangoes, and string beans to enhance the flavor and add more texture to the Binagoongan. However, these are optional and you can skip them if you prefer.
How long does it take to cook the pork until tender?
It usually takes about 40 minutes of simmering for the pork to become tender. However, cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the pork pieces, so it's best to check for tenderness and adjust the cooking time if needed.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, Binagoongan can be prepared in advance. In fact, the flavors tend to develop and intensify after a day or two. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large Pan - A large pan is needed for frying the pork belly and sautéing the ingredients.
Cooking Oil - Cooking oil is necessary for frying the pork belly and sautéing the ingredients.
Spatula - A spatula is useful for flipping and stirring the pork belly and other ingredients.
Chopping Board - A chopping board is needed for chopping the onions, garlic, and tomatoes.
Knife - A knife is required for cutting the pork belly into cubes and chopping the onions, garlic, and tomatoes.
Measuring Cups - Measuring cups are useful for accurately measuring the vinegar, sugar, and water.
Stove - A stove is necessary for heating the pan and simmering the Binagoongan.
Serving Plate - A serving plate or dish is needed for presenting and serving the Binagoongan.

Origin stories

Binagoongan, a dish loved in every corner of the Philippines, is known for its robust flavors that wrap the senses in a comforting blanket of home. This much-adored dish is a delicious testament to the ingenuity of Filipino cuisine, which turns simple ingredients into a gastronomic wonder. The crowning jewel of this dish is the bagoong or shrimp paste, a signature condiment in Filipino kitchens. This fermented concoction provides a burst of umami, making each bite an unforgettable experience. Interestingly, the preparation of bagoong itself is a study of patience and time, as the shrimp is salted and fermented over weeks—even months—to reach its peak flavor. Truly, Binagoongan is a celebration of the Filipino’s love for hearty meals and shared laughter at the dining table.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.