A spicy and creamy Filipino dish made with pork belly, shrimp paste, and coconut milk.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 500gpork belly
- 1tbspcooking oil
- 1pieceonion, chopped
- 4clovegarlic, minced
- 1piecethumb-sized ginger, sliced
- 3tbspshrimp paste (bagoong)
- 6piecelong green chilies, sliced diagonally
- 2piecered chili peppers, chopped (optional)
- 2cupscoconut milk
- 1cupcoconut cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make Bicol Express
Prepare the Pork
In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté the pork until it turns light brown and the fat starts to render, about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté Aromatics
Add the onions, garlic, and ginger to the pan. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent.
Add Shrimp Paste
Stir in the shrimp paste (bagoong). Cook for about 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors with the pork and aromatics.
Add Chilies
Add the long green chilies and red chili peppers (if using). Stir and cook for about 2 minutes.
Pour Coconut Milk
Add the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the pork to become tender and the sauce to thicken.
Add Coconut Cream
Pour in the coconut cream for a richer sauce. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent curdling.
Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Once the sauce is thick and creamy, remove from heat.
Serve
Bicol Express is best enjoyed with steamed rice.
Tips & Tricks
For a less spicy version, reduce the number of red chili peppers.
Stir occasionally to prevent the coconut milk from curdling.
FAQS
How do I make Bicol Express less spicy for kids?
To make Bicol Express less spicy for kids, you can reduce the number of long green chilies and omit the red chili peppers. You can also add a bit more coconut milk or cream to balance the heat and make the dish creamier.
What are some good substitutions for shrimp paste in Bicol Express?
If you don't have shrimp paste (bagoong), you can substitute it with fish sauce or soy sauce for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that this may alter the dish's authenticity, but it will still be delicious!
How should I store leftover Bicol Express?
To store leftover Bicol Express, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
What can I serve with Bicol Express to make a complete meal?
Bicol Express pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, which helps balance the rich and spicy flavors. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad to add some crunch and freshness to your meal.
Is Bicol Express suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, Bicol Express can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the shrimp paste and any other sauces used are gluten-free. The main ingredients, such as pork belly, coconut milk, and spices, are naturally gluten-free.
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North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia