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Pinakbet
Pinakbet is a beloved traditional Filipino dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables, harmoniously blended with the salty umami of shrimp paste. This hearty vegetable stew, often enjoyed with steaming rice, is not just a meal but a celebration of the Philippines' agricultural bounty. Each bite is a delightful experience, bursting with the essence of the tropics, making it a staple in Filipino households. Historically, pinakbet originated from the Ilocos region and reflects the resourceful cooking style of using seasonal vegetables, often found in rural gardens.
Ingredients
- Cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons
- Garlic
- 4 cloves, minced
- Onion
- 1 medium, chopped
- Ginger
- 1 thumb-sized piece, sliced
- Tomato
- 2 medium, chopped
- Bitter melon
- 1 medium, sliced
- Eggplant
- 1 medium, sliced
- Okra
- 1 cup, sliced
- String beans
- 1 cup, cut into 2-inch pieces
- Squash
- 1 cup, cubed (preferably kabocha or butternut)
- Shrimp paste
- 3 tablespoons
- Water
- 1 cup
- Salt
- to taste
- Pepper
- to taste
Instructions
- Heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced ginger, sautéing until fragrant and the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until softened.
- Add the bitter melon, eggplant, okra, string beans, and squash to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin to soften.
- Incorporate the shrimp paste and pour in the water. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Serve hot, ideally with steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips
- For a vegetarian version, substitute shrimp paste with fermented soybeans or miso.
- Feel free to add or substitute any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or carrots.
- To enhance the flavor, let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving, allowing the ingredients to meld.
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 Dish Type: Main Course Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Calories: 220 Fat: 10g Carbs: 30g Protein: 5g Sodium: 600mg Sugar: 5g
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