Traditional Filipino Bopis Recipe: A Spicy and Savory Delight

Ingredients

  • 1 kg Pork lungs and heart
  • 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
  • 6 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 large Onion, chopped
  • 1 small Red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small Green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 piece Thai chili pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Annatto (atsuete) powder, dissolved in water
  • 2 tablespoons Oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Granulated white sugar
  • 1 cup Water
  • 1 piece Bay leaf

Steps and instructions

  1. Boil the pork lungs and heart in a pot with water and a pinch of salt until tender. This should take about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Once done, drain the water and let the meat cool down. Afterwards, mince the meat.
  2. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until it turns light brown. Add the onions and cook until they become soft.
  3. Add the minced meat to the pan and stir it together with the garlic and onions. Cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Add the red and green bell peppers and Thai chili pepper, if using. Cook until the peppers are tender.
  5. In a bowl, combine vinegar, soy sauce, annatto powder, oyster sauce, black pepper, salt, and sugar. Stir until well combined and then add this mixture to the pan. Mix well and allow it to cook for a couple of minutes.
  6. Add water and bay leaf to the pan. Cover the pan and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the sauce is reduced.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper if required.
  8. Once the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the Bopis hot, with steamed rice on the side.

Tools for making

  • Pot - For boiling the pork lungs and heart.
  • Large Pan - To cook the Bopis mixture.
  • Knife - To mince the boiled pork lungs and heart.
  • Cutting Board - To chop the onions and bell peppers.
  • Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the vinegar, soy sauce, annatto powder, black pepper, salt, and sugar.
  • Spatula - For stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
  • Bowl - To combine the vinegar, soy sauce, annatto powder, oyster sauce, black pepper, salt, and sugar.

Recipe variations

  • Instead of pork lungs and heart, you can use chicken gizzards or beef tripe as a meat alternative.
  • Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or potatoes to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of Thai chili peppers or add crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Experiment with different spices and seasonings such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to customize the flavor profile.
  • For a tangier taste, substitute lime juice or calamansi juice for vinegar.
  • Add coconut milk to create a richer and creamier sauce.
  • Make it vegetarian by replacing the meat with tofu or tempeh and using vegetable broth instead of water.
  • For a smoky flavor, you can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the dish.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water towards the end of the cooking process.
  • Garnish with chopped scallions or cilantro for an added freshness and aroma.

Recipe overview

Bopis is a traditional Filipino dish that is flavorful and robust, typically served as an appetizer or main dish alongside steamed rice. It is made from minced pork lungs and heart, cooked in a blend of delectable spices, creating a spicy and savory dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. This recipe takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, from prepping your ingredients to the final simmering. Despite being a bit labor-intensive, the end result is worth the effort! This Bopis recipe promises an authentic Filipino culinary experience that will definitely impress. Prepare yourself for a hearty and spicy dish that is bursting with flavors and textures, a true delight for adventurous foodies!

Common questions

  1. Can I use other types of meat instead of pork lungs and heart?
    Yes, you can use other cuts of pork such as pork belly or pork shoulder as a substitute for pork lungs and heart.
  2. Is it necessary to use annatto (atsuete) powder?
    No, annatto powder is used to give the dish a vibrant red color. If you don't have annatto powder, you can omit it or substitute it with paprika for a milder flavor.
  3. Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
    Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer Thai chili peppers. If you prefer a milder version, you can omit the Thai chili pepper altogether.
  4. How long should I boil the pork lungs and heart?
    Boil the pork lungs and heart for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender. This will ensure that the meat is cooked properly.
  5. Can I make Bopis ahead of time?
    Yes, Bopis can be made ahead of time. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before serving.
  6. What can I serve with Bopis?
    Bopis is commonly served as a main dish with steamed rice. It can also be enjoyed with bread or as a filling for tacos or sandwiches.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy surface for chopping and mincing the ingredients.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting the pork lungs, heart, and vegetables.
  • Pot - Used for boiling the pork lungs and heart until tender.
  • Pan - Used for sautéing the garlic, onions, meat, and vegetables.
  • Spatula - Helpful for stirring and mixing the ingredients while cooking.
  • Bowl - Used for mixing the sauce ingredients before adding them to the pan.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - To accurately measure the vinegar, soy sauce, annatto powder, oyster sauce, black pepper, salt, and sugar.
  • Cover - Used to cover the pan while simmering the Bopis.

Origin stories

Bopis is a spicy Filipino delicacy that originates from the culinary-rich region of Pampanga in the Philippines. The Kapampangans, renowned for their sophisticated cooking techniques, have a special knack for turning less desirable parts of the animal into a gastronomic delight, and Bopis is a prime example of this. It is traditionally prepared using minced pork lungs and heart, which are sautéed in tomatoes, chilies and onions then simmered until tender. Often served in social gatherings and fiestas, this dish brings a true sense of community to the table. Despite its exotic ingredients, Bopis has managed to capture the hearts of many Filipinos and has become a staple in the realm of Filipino cuisine.

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.