Authentic Utan Bisaya Recipe: A Taste of Visayan Comfort Food

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch of malunggay leaves
  • 1 bunch of alugbati leaves
  • 1 bunch of okra, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup of pumpkin, peeled and chopped
  • 2 cups of water
  • 2 medium-sized tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 medium-sized onion, sliced
  • 1 thumb-sized ginger, peeled and sliced
  • 2 pieces of green chili peppers
  • 1 piece of fish (preferably mackerel), cleaned and sliced
  • 1 teaspoon of salt

Steps and instructions

  1. Prepare a pot and put in the water, ginger, onion, and tomatoes.
  2. Bring the water to boil over medium heat.
  3. Once boiling, add the pumpkin and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until it becomes slightly tender.
  4. Add the fish slices into the pot and let it cook for another 10 minutes.
  5. After the fish is cooked, add the okra, green chili peppers, alugbati leaves, and malunggay leaves into the pot.
  6. Season with salt and let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes.
  7. Turn off the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Pot - A large cooking vessel used to prepare the dish.
  • Knife - Used for slicing the vegetables and fish.
  • Cutting board - Provides a sturdy surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
  • Measuring cup - Used to accurately measure the amount of water needed.
  • Spoon - Used for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
  • Ladle - Used for serving the Utan Bisaya into bowls.

Recipe variations

  • Replace the fish with chicken or pork for a meaty version of Utan Bisaya.
  • Add shrimp or other seafood to enhance the seafood flavors.
  • Include other leafy greens such as spinach or kangkong (water spinach) in addition to or instead of alugbati and malunggay.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit the fish and add tofu or tempeh for protein.
  • Experiment with different vegetables like eggplant, yard-long beans, or squash to add more variety.
  • Add a squeeze of calamansi or lemon juice for a tangy twist.
  • For a spicy kick, add more chili peppers or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
  • Include other herbs and spices like garlic, lemongrass, or turmeric to enhance the flavor profile.

Recipe overview

Utan Bisaya is a healthy and hearty vegetable soup that hails from the Visayas region in the Philippines. This traditional Filipino dish is filled with nutritious greens like malunggay (moringa) and alugbati (spinach vine), along with okra, pumpkin, and fish. Known for its simplicity and easy preparation, Utan Bisaya is perfect for those looking for a warm, comforting meal that's also light and nourishing. With its savory fish broth and a medley of vegetables, you'll have a taste of the Visayas' rich culinary tradition. Expect to have a delicious, healthy dish ready in just around 30 minutes. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use other types of fish? Yes, you can use other types of fish such as tilapia or bangus (milkfish) if you prefer.
  2. What can I use as a substitute for malunggay leaves? If malunggay leaves are not available, you can substitute with spinach or kangkong (water spinach) leaves.
  3. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like eggplant or string beans to enhance the flavors and textures.
  4. Is there a vegetarian version of Utan Bisaya? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the fish and using vegetable broth instead of water.
  5. Can I adjust the spiciness level? Of course! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the green chili peppers.
  6. How many servings does this recipe yield? This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pot - A pot is needed to cook the Utan Bisaya.
  • Knife - A knife is necessary for slicing the vegetables and fish.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board provides a surface for chopping and slicing ingredients.
  • Serving spoon - A serving spoon is used to portion out the Utan Bisaya when serving.
  • Bowls - Bowls are needed for serving individual portions of the Utan Bisaya.
  • Plates - Plates can be used to serve the Utan Bisaya alongside rice or other dishes.
  • Tablespoon - A tablespoon can be used for measuring and adding salt to the dish.

Origin stories

Utan Bisaya, a simple yet delightful vegetable soup, originates from the Visayas region of the Philippines. It's an everyday dish, woven into the fabric of the locals' daily life due to its nutritious value and easily accessible ingredients. Intriguingly, the recipe varies from one household to another, reflecting the diverse agricultural produce of the region. Some might add corn, while others might include bamboo shoots, making every iteration of this dish a unique experience. Also, the simplicity of the dish is a testimony to the Visayan people's humility and their profound connection with nature, reminding us that the most straightforward meals often carry the deepest flavors and stories.

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.