Authentic Filipino Sinigang Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 kg pork, cut into chunks
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium tomatoes, quartered
  • 2 pieces radish, sliced
  • 1 bundle string beans, cut into 2" long
  • 1 bunch spinach or kangkong
  • 2 pieces chilli peppers
  • 1 pack (40g) Sinigang mix
  • 1 liter water
  • 3 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions become tender.
  3. Add the tomatoes and cook until they are soft and have released their juice.
  4. Add the pork chunks and cook until they turn light brown.
  5. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
  6. Add the Sinigang mix and stir well to dissolve.
  7. Add the radish slices and simmer until the pork is tender.
  8. Add the string beans and cook for a few more minutes until they are tender.
  9. Stir in the fish sauce and chili peppers, and add salt to taste.
  10. Add the spinach or kangkong right before turning off the heat, and cover the pot to let the greens wilt from the residual heat.
  11. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - Used to cook the Sinigang.
  • Cooking spoon - Used for stirring the ingredients while cooking.
  • Chopping board - Used for cutting and preparing the vegetables.
  • Knife - Used for chopping the onions, garlic, tomatoes, and other ingredients.
  • Measuring cup - Used for measuring the water and Sinigang mix.
  • Serving bowls - Used for serving the Sinigang.
  • Ladle - Used for scooping and serving the Sinigang soup.
  • Stove or cooker - Used for heating and cooking the Sinigang.

Recipe variations

  • Chicken Sinigang: Substitute pork with chicken meat for a lighter version.
  • Beef Sinigang: Replace pork with beef chunks for a heartier flavor.
  • Seafood Sinigang: Use shrimp, fish, or a combination of different seafood instead of meat.
  • Vegetable Sinigang: Make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding a variety of vegetables such as eggplant, okra, and bok choy.
  • Sinigang sa Miso: Add a few tablespoons of miso paste to give the soup a rich and savory flavor.
  • Spicy Sinigang: Increase the number of chili peppers or add additional spicy ingredients like bird's eye chili or hot sauce for a spicier kick.
  • Sinampalukang Manok: Use tamarind leaves instead of the Sinigang mix for a more traditional sour taste.
  • Sinigang with Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple to the soup to give it a hint of sweetness.
  • Sinigang with Guava: Replace the tomatoes with ripe guava for a unique and tangy twist.
  • Sinigang with Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup for a citrusy flavor.

Recipe overview

Sinigang is a popular Filipino soup characterized by its sour and savory flavor. The dish is hearty and filling, typically made with pork, and a variety of vegetables such as radish, string beans, and leafy greens. The tartness comes from a special ingredient known as a Sinigang mix, although traditionally tamarind, kamias, or even tomatoes are used. This recipe walks you through the simple steps to create this warm and comforting dish. The preparation involves sautéing and simmering, and in less than an hour, you'll have a pot full of delicious Sinigang ready to serve. Enjoy this with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.

Common questions

  1. What type of meat can I use for Sinigang?
    You can use various types of meat for Sinigang, such as pork, beef, shrimp, or fish. For this recipe, we are using pork.
  2. Can I use fresh tamarind instead of Sinigang mix?
    Yes, you can use fresh tamarind if you prefer a more homemade and tangy flavor. Simply extract the juice from about 8-10 pieces of tamarind and add it to the soup. Adjust the amount according to your taste.
  3. Can I substitute the vegetables?
    Yes, you can customize the vegetables based on your preference. Some common alternatives or additions include okra, eggplant, water spinach (kangkong), or bok choy.
  4. How can I make Sinigang less sour?
    If you find the soup too sour for your taste, you can balance the acidity by adding a bit of sugar or honey. Start with a teaspoon and adjust according to your preference.
  5. Can I make Sinigang in advance?
    Yes, you can make Sinigang in advance. In fact, the flavors tend to develop and improve over time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and simply reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook the sinigang soup and accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Chopping board - A chopping board is essential for cutting and preparing the vegetables.
  • Knife - A knife is necessary for cutting the pork and chopping the vegetables.
  • Spoon - A spoon is needed for stirring and serving the sinigang.
  • Ladle - A ladle is useful for serving the sinigang soup into bowls.
  • Bowl - Bowls are used for serving the sinigang.
  • Plate - Plates are needed for serving the sinigang with steamed rice.

Origin stories

Sinigang, a sour and savory stew, is a beloved comfort food in the Philippines. It is often associated with the concept of "asim-kilig," a term used to describe the lip-puckering delight brought about by its distinctive sour taste. The souring agent varies between regions, ranging from tamarind, calamondin, bilimbi, and even unripe mango, reflecting the country's rich biodiversity. Although typically associated with pork, a myriad of variations have sprung forth over the years, with different proteins such as beef, fish, and shrimp taking center stage. In a country known for its sweltering heat, one might find it surprising that this hot, sour soup is a staple. But it's the sourness that makes Sinigang refreshing, a culinary paradox that cools you down while heating you up.

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.