Pork Binagoongan is a classic Filipino dish featuring tender pork belly simmered in a rich, savory shrimp paste sauce. The combination of salty, umami-packed bagoong, tomatoes, and a touch of sweetness creates a truly irresistible flavor. Garnished with golden fried eggplant and fresh green onions, this dish is best enjoyed with steamed white rice. Perfect for those who love bold, authentic Filipino flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup shrimp paste (bagoong alamang)
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2-3 Thai chili peppers, sliced (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 eggplant, sliced into rounds (optional)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the pork belly cubes and cook until browned and fat is rendered, about 8-10 minutes. Remove excess oil if desired.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the shrimp paste (bagoong alamang) and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring well to combine with the pork and aromatics.
- Pour in the vinegar and let it simmer without stirring for 2 minutes to cook off the acidity.
- Add the brown sugar, Thai chili peppers (if using), and ground black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the water and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.
- (Optional) In a separate pan, fry the eggplant rounds until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more shrimp paste or sugar to balance the flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with fried eggplant and chopped green onions. Best enjoyed with steamed white rice.
Tip: If you need shrimp paste (bagoong alamang), you can find it on Amazon.
