Authentic Filipino Laswa Recipe: A Healthy Soup to Savor

Ingredients

  • 2 cups malunggay leaves
  • 2 cups saluyot leaves
  • 2 cups alugbati leaves
  • 2 cups okra, sliced
  • 1 cup string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium-sized onion, diced
  • 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
  • 1 cup squash, cubed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
  • 4 cups water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the garlic, onion, and tomatoes to the pot and sauté until the onions become translucent and the tomatoes are softened.
  3. Add the squash to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, until it begins to soften.
  4. Add water to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, add the okra and string beans to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
  6. Add the malunggay, saluyot, and alugbati leaves to the pot. Stir the mixture well to combine the ingredients.
  7. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, until the leaves are fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.
  9. Remove the pot from the heat and let the laswa cool slightly before serving.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - A pot large enough to accommodate all the ingredients and for simmering the laswa.
  • Cutting board - Used for chopping and preparing the vegetables.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for cutting and slicing the vegetables.
  • Spoon - A spoon for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
  • Measuring cups - Used to measure the quantities of the ingredients accurately.
  • Measuring spoons - Used to measure smaller quantities of spices and seasonings.

Recipe variations

  • Add shrimp, fish, or pork to make it a seafood or meat-based laswa.
  • Include other leafy vegetables such as spinach or kangkong (water spinach).
  • Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
  • Add a squeeze of calamansi or lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
  • Incorporate other vegetables like eggplant, bitter gourd, or bell peppers.
  • Season with fish sauce (patis) or soy sauce for a savory kick.
  • For a creamy variation, stir in coconut milk or coconut cream.
  • Add a chili pepper or spicy seasoning to give it a spicy kick.
  • Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added freshness.
  • Serve with steamed rice or crusty bread for a more filling meal.

Recipe overview

Laswa is a traditional Filipino vegetable soup that's known for its fresh, wholesome flavor and nutrient-packed ingredients. This recipe incorporates a variety of local vegetables such as malunggay, saluyot, alugbati, okra, string beans, and squash, resulting in a soup that is both hearty and healthy. The process of making Laswa is straightforward and involves sautéing the base ingredients, adding the vegetables in stages, and allowing the mixture to simmer until it's richly flavored and the ingredients are tender. This Laswa recipe is perfect for those looking for a nutritious and comforting meal that showcases the best of Filipino home-cooking.

Common questions

  1. Can I use different types of leafy greens for this recipe? Yes, you can use different types of leafy greens based on your preference or availability. The combination of malunggay, saluyot, and alugbati leaves gives a unique flavor to the dish, but you can substitute or add other greens like spinach or kangkong.
  2. Do I need to pre-cook the vegetables before adding them to the pot? No, you do not need to pre-cook the vegetables. They will cook directly in the pot while simmering. Just make sure to cut them into appropriate sizes for even cooking.
  3. Can I add meat or seafood to the recipe? Yes, you can add meat or seafood if you prefer. Some common additions include shrimp, fish, or pork. Simply cook the meat or seafood separately and add it to the pot along with the vegetables.
  4. Can I adjust the amount of water for a thicker or thinner consistency? Yes, you can adjust the amount of water based on your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker laswa, reduce the amount of water. For a thinner consistency, you can add more water. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
  5. Can I make laswa ahead of time? Yes, you can make laswa ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in a microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - needed for cooking the laswa
  • Knife - for chopping and dicing the vegetables
  • Cutting board - to provide a stable surface for cutting vegetables
  • Wooden spoon - for stirring the ingredients while cooking
  • Measuring cups - to accurately measure the ingredients
  • Measuring spoons - for precise measurement of salt, pepper, and other seasonings
  • Ladle - for serving the laswa into bowls or plates
  • Soup bowls - to serve the laswa
  • Serving spoon - for serving the laswa at the table
  • Napkins - for wiping any spills or messes

Origin stories

Laswa, a quintessential Ilonggo dish, is beloved in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. The dish's simplicity is a testament to the resourcefulness of Ilonggo cooks, who learned to make the most out of the bounty of their local environment. The name "Laswa" is derived from the Hiligaynon word "Lasaw", which means "to dissolve or melt" - a nod to the way the various vegetables soften and meld together in the pot. This nutritious vegetable soup is an embodiment of the Ilonggo's warm and gentle character, which is often referred to as "Nahisabo" or a love of good company and good food. Just as the different vegetables harmonize in the pot, the Ilonggo people value unity and camaraderie, and Laswa is often a centerpiece of communal meals, shared stories, and laughter.

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.