Delicious and Nutritious Bulanglangsilog: A Traditional Filipino Breakfast Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup of uncooked jasmine rice
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
500g of pork, cut into small pieces
1 tablespoon of fish sauce (patis)
1 medium bitter melon, seeded and sliced
1 medium eggplant, sliced
2 medium tomatoes, sliced
1 bundle of okra
1 bundle of string beans
1 medium-sized squash, cut into cubes
5 cups of water
Salt and pepper to taste
4 fresh eggs

Steps and instructions

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to the package instructions and set aside.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
Add the pork to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Add the fish sauce and stir to combine.
Add the tomatoes, bitter melon, eggplant, okra, string beans, and squash to the pot. Stir well to combine with the pork and onions.
Add the water to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
While the soup is simmering, fry the eggs to your desired level of doneness. Season with salt and pepper.
Once the vegetables are tender, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup with a scoop of rice and a fried egg on top.

Tools for making

Large pot - needed to cook the soup
Spatula - for stirring and sautéing ingredients
Knife - to chop and slice vegetables and pork
Cutting board - for safe and convenient food preparation
Measuring cups - to accurately measure the rice and water
Measuring spoons - for precise measurement of fish sauce and salt
Frying pan - to fry the eggs
Slotted spoon - for removing vegetables from the pot

Recipe variations

Use brown rice or quinoa instead of jasmine rice for a healthier option.
Replace pork with chicken, beef, or shrimp for different protein choices.
Add tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan version of the dish.
Experiment with different vegetables such as spinach, cabbage, or carrots.
Add a squeeze of calamansi or lime juice for a tangy flavor.
For a spicy kick, add chili peppers or hot sauce to the soup.
Include other herbs and spices like ginger, lemongrass, or bay leaves for added flavor.

Recipe overview

Bulanglangsilog is a hearty and nutritious Filipino dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. It is a combination of Bulanglang, a traditional Filipino vegetable soup, and Silog, a popular breakfast meal which incorporates garlic rice and a fried egg. The vegetable soup is packed with a variety of colorful vegetables and tender pork, simmered in a flavorful broth. This is then served with fragrant jasmine rice and a perfectly fried egg for a satisfying and well-rounded dish. This recipe provides step-by-step instructions, making it easy to bring this authentic Filipino comfort food to your own kitchen. Whether you're new to Filipino cuisine or a long-time fan, Bulanglangsilog is sure to be a hit. Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner - it's delicious any time of the day!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, you can use any type of rice you prefer. Jasmine rice is commonly used in this recipe, but you can substitute with other varieties like white rice or brown rice.
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! While pork is traditionally used in Bulanglangsilog, you can substitute it with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
What can I substitute for bitter melon? If you're not a fan of bitter melon, you can omit it from the recipe or replace it with other vegetables like zucchini or green bell peppers.
Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! This recipe is versatile, and you can add or remove vegetables based on your preference. Some other vegetables that work well in this dish include cabbage, spinach, or chayote.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before consuming.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - Used for cooking the soup.
Frying pan - Used for frying the eggs.
Knife - Used for mincing garlic, chopping onion, and slicing vegetables.
Cutting board - Used for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Spatula - Used for stirring and flipping ingredients.
Measuring cups - Used for measuring rice and water.
Soup ladle - Used for serving the soup.
Rice cooker - Optional, but helpful for cooking the rice.
Salt and pepper shakers - Used for seasoning the soup and fried eggs.

Origin stories

Bulanglangsilog is a hearty dish that perfectly encapsulates the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. This delightful fusion of Bulanglang, a traditional Filipino vegetable soup, and Silog, a popular Filipino breakfast meal consisting of sinangag (fried rice) and itlog (egg), bears testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Filipino cuisine. The exact origins of this dish are wrapped in the mists of time, lost to the countless kitchens and street-side food stalls that have served it up over the centuries. It is an embodiment of Filipinos' love for combining various elements to create something uniquely flavorful, mirroring the country's diverse and vibrant culture. Every bite of this dish tells a story of the Philippines' abundant produce, communal eating culture, and love for hearty and satisfying meals.

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.