Menudo is a hearty and flavorful dish that holds a special place in Filipino cuisine. Known for its rich, savory sauce and tender cuts of meat, this beloved stew is often found on tables during family gatherings, fiestas, and special occasions. With its blend of juicy pork shoulder, vegetables, and a tomato-based sauce, Filipino pork menudo is a comforting meal that brings people together. Whether you’re new to Filipino cooking or a seasoned pro looking to perfect your pork menudo recipe, this step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious dish that’s bursting with traditional flavors.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the steps of making Filipino pork menudo, let’s go over the key ingredients you’ll need:
For the Marinade
- 500g pork shoulder or pork belly, cubed
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Menudo
- 150g pork liver, cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, cubed
- 1 medium carrot, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (225g) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup water or chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
Optional
- Green peas or chickpeas for extra texture and flavor
Preparation
Marinate the Pork
- In a bowl, combine the cubed pork, soy sauce, calamansi juice, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure that the pork is evenly coated with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes. This helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Fry the Potatoes and Carrots
- Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Fry the cubed potatoes and carrots until they are lightly golden and crispy on the outside. Set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Sauté the Aromatics
- Using the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed.
- Sauté the garlic and onions until they become fragrant and the onions turn translucent. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Cook the Pork and Liver
- Add the marinated pork to the pan and cook until browned on all sides. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan so that the pork sears properly.
- Add the pork liver and cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until the liver is lightly browned. Do not overcook the liver to avoid it becoming tough.
Add Tomato Sauce and Seasoning
- Stir in the tomato sauce and tomato paste, making sure the pork and liver are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add the fish sauce, sugar, and bay leaf for added depth of flavor.
- Pour in the water or chicken stock, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the pork is tender.
Adding Vegetables
- Add the fried potatoes and carrots to the pan, along with the red and green bell peppers. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- If you’re using green peas or chickpeas, add them at this point.
- Let the mixture simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to absorb the rich tomato flavor.
Season and Serve
- Taste the Menudo and adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste.
- Once everything is cooked and well-blended, remove the bay leaf, and the dish is ready to serve.
Enjoy
Serve your delicious Filipino Menudo with a side of warm steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
Filipino pork menudo is best served hot with a side of steamed rice. The rice helps to balance the rich and savory flavors of the stew. For an extra special presentation during special occasions, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color.
Tips and Variations
- Pork liver is an essential component of this pork menudo recipe, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it or substitute it with chicken liver for a milder flavor.
- If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can replace the pork shoulder with ground pork, although this will slightly change the texture of the dish.
- For a more traditional take on a menudo recipe, you can also add raisins or pineapple chunks to add a subtle sweetness to the tomato-based sauce. Some regions in the Philippines like to add these ingredients for a sweet and savory contrast.
Cook Time and Storage
The cooking time for Filipino pork menudo is typically around 1 hour, including the preparation and simmering time. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to improve as the dish sits, making menudo a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
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Craving for something crispy and falling off the bone? This is a sign that you should cook pork belly! Roast that pork slowly, then plate it out to enjoy the soft, tender meat inside and the crisp outside.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Menudo Recipe
Choosing the Right Cut of Pork
Pork shoulder or pork belly is ideal for Menudo because these cuts are tender and flavorful. Avoid using lean cuts of meat, as they may turn out dry.
Balancing the Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce can sometimes be too acidic, which is why adding a bit of sugar to the dish helps balance out the flavors. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
Don’t Overcook the Liver
Pork liver can become tough if overcooked. It should be lightly browned and tender, with a slightly creamy texture. Cooking it with the sauce helps keep it moist.
Marinating the Meat
Allowing the pork to marinate for at least 30 minutes makes a significant difference in flavor. The soy sauce and calamansi juice penetrate the meat, giving it a more complex taste.
Make It Your Own
Menudo is a versatile dish, so feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste. You can substitute pork liver with chicken liver or omit it if you’re not a fan of liver. Some versions also include raisins for a touch of sweetness.
Conclusion
Menudo is a dish that embodies the essence of Filipino home cooking. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones on special occasions or as a comforting everyday meal. Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or looking to perfect your own pork menudo recipe, this guide offers everything you need to create a delicious, hearty dish that’s sure to impress.