Delicious and Easy-to-Make Bangsilog: A Traditional Filipino Breakfast Dish

Ingredients

4 pieces of Bangus (Milkfish) fillet
4 cups of cooked rice
4 cloves of garlic, minced
4 large eggs
1/2 cup of vinegar
1/4 cup of soy sauce
1 small onion, chopped
1 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of salt
2 tablespoons of cooking oil
1 tablespoon of sugar

Steps and instructions

Marinate the Bangus fillets in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, sugar, and chopped onion for at least 30 minutes.
While the Bangus is marinating, cook the rice and set it aside. Heat a wok or large frying pan, add 1 tablespoon of oil, then sauté half of the minced garlic until it turns golden brown. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for a few minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining oil and the rest of the garlic. Sauté until the garlic turns golden brown.
Add the marinated Bangus to the pan and fry each side for about 3-5 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the outside is crispy. Remove the fish from the pan and set it aside.
In the same pan, fry the eggs. For sunny side up eggs, crack the eggs into the pan and cook until the whites are firm and the yolks are still slightly runny. Alternatively, you can scramble the eggs if preferred.
Arrange the fried rice, Bangus, and eggs on a plate. Serve hot and enjoy your Bangsilog.

Tools for making

Wok or Large Frying Pan - Needed for cooking the Bangus fillets and frying the eggs.
Knife and Chopping Board - Used for mincing garlic and chopping onions.
Measuring Cups and Spoons - Required for precise measurement of ingredients such as vinegar, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and sugar.
Spatula - Used for flipping and turning the Bangus fillets while frying.
Tongs - Helpful for handling and flipping the fish fillets without breaking them.
Plate - Used for serving the cooked Bangsilog.
Bowl or Container - Needed for marinating the Bangus fillets.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of fish fillet such as tilapia or salmon instead of Bangus.
Experiment with different marinades or sauces, such as adding lemon juice or using teriyaki sauce.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the fried rice for added flavor and texture.
Try a different type of rice, such as brown rice or jasmine rice, for a different taste and texture.
For a healthier alternative, you can grill the fish fillets instead of frying them.
Make it vegetarian-friendly by substituting the fish fillet with tofu or tempeh.
Add spices or herbs to the marinade or the fried rice, such as chili flakes, ginger, or cilantro, to give the dish an extra kick.
Serve the Bangsilog with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad.
For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Instead of regular white vinegar, try using apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Recipe overview

Bangsilog is a popular Filipino breakfast that combines Bangus (Milkfish), Sinangag (Fried Rice), and Itlog (Egg) - hence the name. This hearty meal starts with marinating milkfish fillets in a savory mixture that includes vinegar, soy sauce, and spices. The fish is then pan-fried to perfection, served alongside garlicky fried rice and a sunny-side-up egg. This recipe also offers the flexibility to scramble the eggs if preferred. The result is a satisfying mix of flavors and textures, making it a beloved start to the day for many. Whether you're new to Filipino cuisine or a long-time fan, Bangsilog is a delicious and fulfilling dish to try.

Common questions

How do I make the Bangus fillets crispy?
To achieve crispy Bangus fillets, make sure to fry them in hot oil over medium-high heat. This will help to crisp up the outer layer of the fish while keeping the inside moist and tender.
Can I use bone-in Bangus instead of fillets?
Yes, you can use bone-in Bangus for this recipe. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the fish is cooked through. Thicker pieces may require additional cooking time.
Can I use a different type of fish?
While this recipe specifically calls for Bangus (Milkfish), you can use other types of fish fillets such as tilapia or salmon if desired. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Can I marinate the Bangus overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the Bangus fillets overnight if you prefer. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the fish more deeply. Just make sure to keep the marinated fish in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
What can I serve with Bangsilog?
Bangsilog is usually served with a side of atchara (pickled papaya) or sliced tomatoes and cucumber. You can also serve it with a dipping sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, and chili peppers for added flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Frying Pan - A large frying pan or skillet to fry the Bangus fillets and eggs.
Wok - An alternative to the frying pan, a wok can also be used for frying the Bangus and eggs.
Mixing Bowl - For marinating the Bangus fillets in the vinegar and soy sauce mixture.
Tongs - Useful for flipping and handling the Bangus fillets while frying.
Spatula - To help flip the Bangus fillets and eggs during cooking.
Garlic Press - Optional, but a garlic press can make mincing the garlic easier and faster.
Plate - To serve the Bangsilog and present it nicely.
Serving Utensils - Such as a spoon or fork, to serve the rice, Bangus, and eggs onto the plate.

Origin stories

Bangsilog is a popular breakfast dish in the Philippines, composed of Bangus (milkfish), Sinangag (garlic fried rice), and Itlog (fried egg). The term "Bangsilog" is a portmanteau of these three words. This meal is part of a family of dishes known as "Silog" meals that are commonly served in "Tapsilogan" eateries across the country. Tapsilogan is a casual dining concept that sprouted from the heart of Philippine urban communities and has become a beloved part of everyday Filipino life. These establishments offer hearty breakfast meals at any time of the day or night, making them a popular destination for night owls, early birds, and everyone in between. The Silog dishes represent the Filipino's knack for innovation in their cuisine, combining simple ingredients into a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Additionally, the Bangus or milkfish used in Bangsilog holds a special place in the Filipino palette as it is the national fish of the Philippines.

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.