Authentic Inabraw: A Traditional Filipino Vegetable Stew Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups moringa leaves
  • 1 cup string beans, cut into 3-inch pieces
  • 1 cup bitter gourd, deseeded and sliced
  • 1 cup sponge gourd, peeled and sliced
  • 6 pieces okra
  • 1 cup eggplant, sliced
  • 1 large tomato, sliced
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup grilled fish, flaked
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 3 cups water
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and onion to the pot and sauté until onion becomes translucent.
  3. Add the tomato to the pot and cook until it becomes soft.
  4. Add the grilled fish flakes and stir for a minute.
  5. Pour in water and fish sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Add the string beans, bitter gourd, sponge gourd, okra, and eggplant to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  7. Add the moringa leaves and stir. Continue to simmer for another 2 minutes.
  8. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
  9. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian Variation: Omit the grilled fish and replace it with tofu or tempeh.
  • Seafood Variation: Add shrimps, clams, or crab meat to the dish.
  • Meat Variation: Include sliced pork or chicken to make it a heartier dish.
  • Spicy Variation: Add chili peppers or chili flakes to give it a kick of heat.
  • Coconut Milk Variation: Substitute some of the water with coconut milk for a creamier flavor.
  • Leafy Greens Variation: Instead of moringa leaves, use spinach, kale, or other leafy greens.
  • Herb Variation: Add herbs like basil or cilantro for added freshness and aroma.
  • Lemon or Calamansi Variation: Squeeze some lemon or calamansi juice over the dish before serving for a tangy twist.
  • Extra Vegetables Variation: Experiment with other vegetables like squash, pumpkin, or corn.
  • Fermented Fish Variation: Instead of grilled fish, use fermented fish paste as a flavor enhancer.

Recipe overview

Inabraw, also known as Dinengdeng, is a hearty, healthy, and flavorful Filipino vegetable stew. This traditional dish from the Ilocos region is packed with various local vegetables and enriched with grilled fish, offering a delightful blend of tastes and textures. This recipe will guide you through the process of making Inabraw in the comfort of your own kitchen. Expect a healthy, nutrient-dense meal that is simple to prepare and satisfying to eat. This soup dish is perfect for those who are seeking a delicious, comforting, and healthful meal. Enjoy the natural sweetness of the vegetables, the umami from the fish, and the overall savory taste that this dish offers.

Common questions

  1. Can I use other types of fish for this recipe? Yes, you can use any grilled fish of your choice. However, traditionally, this recipe uses grilled fish.
  2. Can I substitute any of the vegetables? Yes, you can substitute the vegetables according to your preference or availability. However, the combination of moringa leaves, string beans, bitter gourd, sponge gourd, okra, eggplant, tomato, and onion provides a delicious flavor profile.
  3. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? Yes, you can omit the grilled fish and use vegetable broth instead of water to make a vegetarian version of this dish.
  4. How do I deseed the bitter gourd? To deseed the bitter gourd, simply cut it in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and white pith.
  5. Can I adjust the amount of fish sauce? Yes, you can adjust the amount of fish sauce according to your taste preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more if desired.
  6. Can I add other seasonings or spices? Certainly! Feel free to add other seasonings or spices like ginger, chili pepper, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor of the dish.
  7. What can I serve this dish with? Inabraw is typically served with steamed rice. You can also enjoy it with grilled or fried fish on the side.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - Used for cooking and simmering the inabraw.
  • Vegetable oil - Used for sautéing the garlic and onion.
  • Spatula - Used for stirring the ingredients in the pot.
  • Knife - Used for slicing the bitter gourd, sponge gourd, eggplant, and tomato.
  • Cutting board - Provides a surface for slicing the vegetables.
  • Measuring cups - Used for accurately measuring the ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - Used for measuring the fish sauce, salt, and pepper.
  • Grill - Used for grilling the fish before flaking it.
  • Fish grilling rack - Used for grilling the fish evenly.
  • Plate - Used for serving the inabraw.

Origin stories

Inabraw, also known as Dinengdeng, is a traditional Filipino dish that hails from the Ilocos region of the Philippines. This dish is a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of Ilocano farmers. They would often incorporate whatever vegetables were in season and readily available in their fields. It is a vegetable stew made with various local vegetables and flavored with bagoong, a fermented fish or shrimp paste well-loved in the Philippines. Inabraw emphasizes the use of simple, fresh, and locally sourced ingredients, which is a reflection of the humble and hardworking spirit of the Ilocanos. The dish also holds a special place in the hearts of Ilocanos as it is often served during gatherings and special occasions, adding a sense of community and shared heritage to every pot.

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.