Recipe of Bicol Express

Name: Bicol Express
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: PTM
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 Servings

Bicol Express is a fiery and flavorful Filipino stew that combines tender pork, spicy chilies, creamy coconut milk, and the unique umami of shrimp paste. Named after the Bicol region's fiery cuisine, it's a delightful adventure for your taste buds.

4 Servings

40 min Preparation

Intermediate

Meat

Ingredients

500g pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups coconut milk
4-6 red Thai chili peppers (adjust to taste)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tomato, diced
2 tablespoons shrimp paste (bagoong)
2 tablespoons cooking oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Join me and let's see how to make Bicol Express

Instructions:

Step 1

Heat the cooking oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the onions and cook until they become translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until they soften.

Step 5

Add the pork pieces and cook until they turn brown and slightly crispy.

Step 6

Stir in the shrimp paste (bagoong) and continue to cook for a few minutes, mixing well to distribute the flavor.

Step 7

Add the coconut milk to the pan, stir, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the pork becomes tender. Stir occasionally.

Step 8

While the stew is simmering, slice the red Thai chili peppers. You can adjust the amount depending on your spice preference, but traditionally, it's quite spicy.

Step 9

Add the sliced chili peppers to the stew. Be cautious and use gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling the chilies, as they can be extremely spicy.