Savory LechonSilog: A Traditional Filipino Breakfast Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lechon kawali, chopped
  • 1 cup garlic fried rice
  • 2 medium-sized tomatoes, sliced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 cups of vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of cooking oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by preparing your garlic fried rice. Heat oil in a pan, add the minced garlic and fry until golden brown. Add the rice and stir until the garlic is well distributed. Set aside.
  2. In the same pan, fry the eggs sunny side up or based on your preference. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Next, place the chopped lechon kawali in the pan and cook over medium heat until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to turn the pieces occasionally for an even crisp.
  4. Slice the tomatoes and cucumber while waiting for the lechon to cook.
  5. Once the lechon is crispy, remove from heat. Prepare your plate by placing a scoop of garlic fried rice, a piece of fried egg, and a portion of the crispy lechon kawali.
  6. Garnish the plate with sliced tomatoes and cucumber. Serve hot and enjoy your Lechonsilog.

Tools for making

  • Pan - Used for frying the garlic fried rice, eggs, and lechon kawali.
  • Knife - Used for chopping the lechon kawali and slicing the tomatoes and cucumber.
  • Cutting Board - Provides a stable surface for chopping and slicing ingredients.
  • Spatula - Used for flipping and stirring the lechon kawali while frying.
  • Plate - Used for serving the Lechonsilog.
  • Frying Pan - Used for frying the lechon kawali until crispy.
  • Stove - Used for cooking the garlic fried rice, eggs, and lechon kawali.
  • Tongs - Used for handling the lechon kawali and eggs while cooking and serving.

Recipe variations

  • Use a different protein: Instead of lechon kawali, you can try using other meats like crispy fried chicken, tocino (sweet cured pork), or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • Spice it up: Add some heat to your Lechonsilog by incorporating chili flakes or chopped chili peppers to the garlic fried rice or as a garnish.
  • Experiment with seasonings: Customize the flavor of the lechon kawali by adding different herbs and spices to the marinade or seasoning rub. Some options include lemongrass, paprika, cumin, or thyme.
  • Change up the rice: Instead of garlic fried rice, you can use plain steamed rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even quinoa for a healthier twist.
  • Try different toppings: Enhance the dish by adding toppings like pickled vegetables, atchara (Filipino pickled green papaya), or a drizzle of your favorite sauce such as soy sauce, vinegar, or a sweet and tangy sauce.
  • Create a fusion version: Incorporate flavors from other cuisines by using different seasonings or sauces. For example, you can add soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions for an Asian-inspired Lechonsilog.

Recipe overview

Lechonsilog is a rich and flavorful Filipino dish that combines lechon kawali (crispy pork belly), sinangag (garlic fried rice), and itlog (fried egg). This hearty meal is often enjoyed as a breakfast staple but it can also be served for lunch or dinner. It's a reinvention of the classic 'silog' meal, adding an exciting twist with the crispy and savory lechon. In this recipe, we'll guide you step-by-step on how to create this delectable dish from the comfort of your own kitchen. Expect to prepare a fragrant garlic fried rice, a perfectly fried egg, and crispy lechon kawali that will all come together in a symphony of flavors. We'll also be including fresh cucumber and tomatoes to balance the rich taste. Get ready to enjoy a serving of Lechonsilog that's bursting with traditional Filipino flavors.

Common questions

  1. How do I make the lechon kawali crispy? - To make the lechon kawali crispy, you need to cook it over medium heat until it turns golden brown and crunchy. Make sure to turn the pieces occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  2. Can I use leftover lechon instead of lechon kawali? - Yes, you can use leftover lechon instead of lechon kawali. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
  3. Can I use a different type of rice? - While garlic fried rice is the traditional choice for Lechonsilog, you can use any type of cooked rice you prefer.
  4. What can I use as a substitute for vinegar? - If you don't have vinegar, you can use lemon or calamansi juice as a substitute.
  5. Can I add more vegetables or toppings? - Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables or toppings to customize your Lechonsilog. Some popular additions include pickled vegetables, atchara, or even sautéed greens.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pan - A frying pan or skillet to cook the lechon kawali and fry the eggs.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the lechon kawali and slicing the tomatoes and cucumber.
  • Cutting Board - A sturdy cutting board to safely chop the ingredients.
  • Spatula - A spatula or turner to flip the lechon kawali and eggs while cooking.
  • Plate - A serving plate to present the Lechonsilog.
  • Frying Oil - Cooking oil to fry the lechon kawali and eggs.
  • Spoon - A spoon for stirring the garlic fried rice.
  • Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons for accurately measuring the salt and black pepper.
  • Kitchen Towels - Kitchen towels for wiping and cleaning as needed.

Origin stories

Lechonsilog is an amalgamation of three beloved elements in Filipino cuisine: Lechon, Sinangag, and Itlog - roast pig, garlic fried rice, and egg. The dish is a variant of the popular Filipino meal combo known as 'Silog', which is a short term for Sinangag (fried rice) and Itlog (egg). The prefix 'Lechon' is added because the meat component in this version of the dish is Lechon Kawali - crispy pork belly that's first simmered in spices, then deep-fried to achieve that signature crunch and flavor. The 'Silog' dishes are generally served for breakfast and are a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of Filipino cooks who have turned simple, everyday ingredients into a variety of hearty meals. This culinary innovation has allowed Filipinos to enjoy their favorite proteins, like Lechon, any time of the day, even right at the start! Lechonsilog is indeed a delightful manifestation of Filipino culture and cuisine, where the old, the new, the foreign, and the local meet.

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.