Authentic Filipino Pakbet Recipe: A Delicious Vegetable Medley

Ingredients

1 medium-sized bittermelon, seeded and sliced thinly
2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced thinly
3 medium-sized okra, sliced into 1-inch pieces
1 medium-sized onion, sliced
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 medium-sized tomato, sliced
200 grams of pork belly, cut into small pieces
1/2 cup of shrimp paste
1/2 cup of water
2 tablespoons of cooking oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the pork belly pieces and fry until they are browned. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté the garlic and onion until they become soft and fragrant.
Add the sliced tomatoes into the pan and cook until they are soft.
Return the pork belly pieces into the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine.
Add the shrimp paste into the pan and stir well to combine the ingredients.
Add the bittermelon, eggplants, and okra into the pan. Stir well to combine the ingredients and let them cook for a few minutes.
Add the water into the pan and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until the vegetables are cooked to your liking.
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
Remove the pan from the heat and serve the Pakbet hot. Enjoy!

Tools for making

Pan - A medium-sized pan for cooking the ingredients.
Knife - A sharp knife for slicing the bittermelon, eggplants, and other ingredients.
Cutting board - A cutting board to safely chop and prepare the vegetables.
Spatula - A spatula or wooden spoon for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
Measuring cup - A measuring cup to accurately measure the water and shrimp paste.

Recipe variations

Vegetarian Option: Omit the pork belly and replace it with tofu or tempeh for a meat-free version.
Seafood Variation: Add shrimp, fish fillets, or squid to the dish for a seafood twist.
Chicken Pakbet: Substitute the pork belly with boneless chicken thighs or breast, sliced into small pieces.
Spicy Pakbet: Add chili peppers or chili flakes to the dish to give it a spicy kick.
Herb-infused Pakbet: Add fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley to enhance the flavors of the dish.
Chunky Pakbet: Instead of thinly slicing the vegetables, cut them into larger chunks for a heartier texture.
Vegetable Medley: Feel free to add other vegetables like string beans, squash, or bell peppers for more variety.
Coconut Milk Twist: For a creamier version, replace the water with coconut milk.
Garlic Lover's Pakbet: Increase the amount of minced garlic for those who enjoy a stronger garlic flavor.
Experiment with Seasonings: Try adding other seasonings like soy sauce, fish sauce, or vinegar to adjust the taste according to your preference.

Recipe overview

Pakbet, also known as Pinakbet, is a traditional Filipino dish that features an array of colorful and nutritious vegetables, flavorful shrimp paste, and tender pieces of pork. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delicious dish in the comfort of your own home. You'll be sautéing, simmering, and seasoning a medley of vegetables including bittermelon, eggplants, and okra, alongside pork belly and shrimp paste, resulting in a delectable dish that's both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you're familiar with Filipino cuisine or are trying it for the first time, this Pakbet recipe is sure to be a treat for your taste buds. Enjoy the process and the meal!

Common questions

Can I substitute the pork belly with another type of meat? Yes, you can substitute the pork belly with chicken, beef, or even tofu if you prefer a vegetarian version of the dish.
Is it necessary to remove the seeds from the bittermelon? Yes, it is recommended to remove the seeds from the bittermelon as they can make the dish more bitter. However, if you enjoy the bitter taste, you can leave the seeds in.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones? While fresh vegetables are preferred for this recipe, you can use frozen vegetables if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don't have shrimp paste? Shrimp paste is a key ingredient in Pakbet, but if you don't have it, you can substitute it with fish sauce or soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
Can I adjust the spice level of Pakbet? Yes, you can adjust the spice level of Pakbet by adding chili peppers or chili flakes if you prefer a spicier dish. Adjust the amount according to your taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting board - A sturdy surface for chopping and slicing the vegetables and meat.
Knife - A sharp knife for cutting and preparing the ingredients.
Pan - A wide and deep pan for sautéing and cooking the Pakbet.
Spatula - A utensil for stirring and flipping the ingredients in the pan.
Measuring cup - For accurately measuring and adding the water and other ingredients.
Plates and bowls - For serving the Pakbet.
Spoons and forks - Utensils for enjoying the Pakbet.

Origin stories

Pakbet, also known as Pinakbet, is a traditional Filipino vegetable stew that originates from the Ilocos region of the Philippines. This dish is often associated with the "Bahay Kubo," a folk song that enumerates various local vegetables, many of which are used in this recipe. The unique blend of vegetables and the use of bagoong, a fermented fish or shrimp paste, reflect the rich biodiversity and the resourcefulness of the Ilocano people in utilizing the ingredients abundant in their region. It is a testament to the Filipinos' resilience and ability to create flavorful and nutritious dishes with simple, locally-sourced ingredients.

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.