There’s a certain joy that fills my kitchen when I decide to recreate a classic dish, and “The Best Pork Binagoongan” is a shining star on that list. The first time I made it, I had a bunch of eggplants staring at me from the pantry and a craving for comforting flavors. Little did I know that the combination of succulent pork belly and aromatic shrimp paste would transform my evening into a delightful feast.
As I cooked, the savory scent of garlic and onion dancing with the rich undertones of vinegar and shrimp paste filled the air, weaving a tapestry of flavors that hinted at something extraordinary. This dish isn’t just about feeding the body; it’s about nourishing the soul, turning an ordinary meal into a cherished family experience.
What makes this recipe truly special is its ease and versatility, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy weeknight dinner. So, if you’re tired of the fast-food routine and eager to indulge in something homemade, grab your apron and let’s dive into the vibrant world of Pork Binagoongan!
Why is The Best Pork Binagoongan a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The fusion of succulent pork belly with the deep, savory notes of shrimp paste creates a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes your taste buds.
Quick Cooking: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Heartwarming Comfort: Think of it as a hug in a bowl, ideal for cozy dinners with family and friends.
Versatile Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, making it a crowd-pleaser for both casual meals and festive occasions.
Unique Twist: The use of eggplant adds a rich texture that enhances every bite, making it a standout choice in your cooking repertoire. Plus, if you’re looking for more delightful dishes that elevate your homemade meals, check out our eggplant recipes for more inspiration!
The Best Pork Binagoongan Ingredients
For the Pork
• Pork belly or spare ribs – Cut into bite-size pieces for tender bites that soak up flavors beautifully.
For the Flavor Base
• Sauteed shrimp paste – Elevates the umami profile, creating depth in “The Best Pork Binagoongan.”
• Onion – Finely chopped to add sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
• Garlic – Minced to infuse the dish with warmth and rich flavor.
• Tomatoes – Quartered for a refreshing burst of tang that balances richness.
For the Cooking Liquid
• Cooking oil – Use olive oil or avocado oil for a light, flavorful sauté.
• Water – Helps to create a sauce that melds all the flavors together.
• Oyster sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to your sauce.
• Sugar – Just a tablespoon to round out the flavors harmoniously.
• Cane vinegar – Provides a zesty kick that brightens the dish.
For the Garnish
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall taste.
• Chili (optional) – Adds heat for those who love a spicy twist.
• Chopped green onions or cilantro – Fresh herbs to brighten and finish the dish beautifully.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting this unforgettable experience that is both nourishing and heartwarming!
How to Make The Best Pork Binagoongan
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Fry the Eggplant: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Fry the sliced eggplant until golden brown, then set aside on a plate to cool.
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Sear the Pork: In the same pan, season the pork belly or spare ribs with salt and pepper. Sear until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside with the eggplant.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
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Mix in the Shrimp Paste: Stir the sautéed shrimp paste into the garlic and onion mixture, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until well combined.
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Add Tomatoes: Toss in the quartered tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 4-5 minutes. Their juices will add a lovely freshness to the sauce.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in water, oyster sauce, sugar, and additional salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the pork is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as desired. For extra heat, add chopped red chili peppers at this stage and stir well.
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Incorporate the Vinegar: Carefully pour in the cane vinegar and resist stirring for about 3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Thicken the Sauce: Continue to simmer the mixture until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency, about 5-10 minutes.
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Add Eggplant: Gently fold in the fried eggplant with the pork and sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in that delightful flavor.
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Garnish your Dish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish.
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Serve: Serve your Pork Binagoongan hot over a bed of steamed rice, soaking up all the delicious sauce.
Optional: Serve with a slice of lime for a fresh squeeze of acidity.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for The Best Pork Binagoongan
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Choose Quality Pork: Opt for fresh pork belly or spare ribs with good marbling for the best flavor and tenderness in your Pork Binagoongan.
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Perfect Eggplant: To avoid bitter eggplant, sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes before frying. Rinse and pat dry to enhance their flavor.
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Layering Flavors: Don’t rush the sautéing process; cook the garlic and onion until they’re lightly caramelized. This adds a sweet depth to the dish that makes “The Best Pork Binagoongan” unforgettable.
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Vinegar Timing: Remember to add the cane vinegar and resist mixing for a few minutes; this technique allows the vinegar’s pungency to mellow and blend beautifully with other flavors.
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Adjusting Spice Level: If you enjoy a spicier kick, add fresh chopped chili peppers when adjusting seasoning. This will create a delightful balance to the savory richness.
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Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the green onions or cilantro topping! They not only brighten the dish visually but also add a fresh lift to every hearty bite.
What to Serve with The Best Pork Binagoongan?
The rich, savory flavors of this dish create a delightful canvas for a memorable meal.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, it’s the classic pairing to soak up all the delicious sauce.
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Garlicky Broccolini: The slight bitterness and crunch of broccolini enhance the dish’s richness, adding a refreshing contrast.
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Cucumber Salad: A cool, crunchy side brings a vibrant freshness that perfectly balances the savory notes of the pork.
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Egg Fried Rice: This buttery, umami-packed rice enhances the dish, creating a comforting combination that feels indulgent.
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Sinigang Soup: A warm, tangy soup with a kick can elevate the meal into a flavorful feast, complementing the pork beautifully.
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Pineapple Juice: The tart sweetness of pineapple juice is a delightful beverage choice that refreshes after each bite of rich binagoongan.
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Banana Bread Pudding: For a comforting dessert, this warm pudding offers a sweet, soft finale to your meal.
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Chili Mango Salsa: This bright, zesty salsa adds an exciting flavor burst, pairing beautifully with the savory pork.
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Lemonade: A refreshing, tangy drink, lemonade cleanses the palate and complements the dish’s richness, making each bite enjoyable.
The Best Pork Binagoongan Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish while enjoying the wonderful flavors that can suit everyone’s taste!
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pork with firm tofu, which absorbs the savory sauce perfectly while providing a delightful texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add more chopped chili peppers or a splash of chili oil to ramp up the heat, making every bite a thrilling experience.
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Sweet Twist: Swap out sugar for a bit of honey or maple syrup for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that complements the richness.
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Coconut Cream: Stir in a small amount of coconut cream at the end for a luxurious twist that brings a creamy texture and tropical touch.
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Vegan Delight: Replace shrimp paste with miso or a savory vegan mushroom paste to maintain depth of flavor without any animal products.
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Extra Savory: Add a tablespoon of fish sauce along with the oyster sauce for an umami bomb that enhances the overall taste.
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Fruits & Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or pineapple chunks for added color and a fresh crunch, creating a burst of flavor with each bite.
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Rice Alternatives: Serve over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a healthier twist that still delivers the savory taste you crave.
Each variation offers a unique flair, bringing out the versatility of “The Best Pork Binagoongan” and inviting fun culinary creativity into your kitchen!
Make Ahead Options
Planning ahead with The Best Pork Binagoongan is a breeze and perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the pork belly and sautéed shrimp paste mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, fry the eggplant ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days to preserve its flavor and texture. On cooking day, reheat the pork mixture in a pan, add the eggplant, and simmer until heated through, ensuring a quick and delicious meal. These make-ahead strategies not only save time but also ensure your dish will be just as delicious and comforting as if made fresh.
Storage Tips for The Best Pork Binagoongan
Fridge: Store leftover Pork Binagoongan in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even further, making it taste even better the next day.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn, and label it for easy identification later.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm the dish on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain the integrity of flavors.
The Best Pork Binagoongan Recipe FAQs
What type of pork is best for Pork Binagoongan?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh pork belly or spare ribs. Look for cuts with good marbling, as this will ensure tenderness and enhance the flavor of your dish.
How should I store leftover Pork Binagoongan?
To store your delicious leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it taste even better the next day!
Can I freeze Pork Binagoongan?
Yes, for long-term storage, you can freeze Pork Binagoongan in portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to seal it well to prevent freezer burn. I often label the containers with the date for easy reference later!
What if my eggplant is bitter?
Very! If you encounter bitter eggplant, try this simple trick: sprinkle the sliced eggplant with salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes. This draws out some of the bitterness. Rinse and pat them dry before frying, and you’ll have deliciously tender eggplant in your dish.
What if my sauce won’t thicken?
No worries! If you find your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, continue to simmer it without the lid for a little longer, stirring occasionally. If needed, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then gradually add it to the sauce while stirring, allowing it to thicken in just a few minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
Please be cautious! For those with shellfish allergies, omit the shrimp paste and consider using a vegetarian alternative or simply enhance flavors with spices and herbs that you enjoy. Always check each ingredient to ensure it’s safe for your dietary needs.
The Best Pork Binagoongan with Savory Eggplant Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fry the Eggplant: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Fry the sliced eggplant until golden brown, then set aside on a plate to cool.
- Sear the Pork: In the same pan, season the pork belly with salt and pepper. Sear until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside with the eggplant.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in the Shrimp Paste: Stir the sautéed shrimp paste into the garlic and onion mixture, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until well combined.
- Add Tomatoes: Toss in the quartered tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in water, oyster sauce, sugar, and additional salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the pork is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as desired. For extra heat, add chopped red chili peppers and stir well.
- Incorporate the Vinegar: Carefully pour in the cane vinegar and resist stirring for about 3 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce: Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency, about 5-10 minutes.
- Add Eggplant: Gently fold in the fried eggplant with the pork and sauce.
- Garnish your Dish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice.
