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Bicol Express, Sinilihan Recipe

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Bicol Express Recipe: A Spicy and Creamy Filipino Favorite

Bicol Express is a classic Filipino dish known for its bold, spicy, and creamy flavors. Originating from the Bicol region, this dish is a delicious combination of tender pork cooked in coconut milk, chili peppers, and shrimp paste, creating a perfect balance of heat and richness. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or want to explore authentic Filipino cuisine, Bicol Express is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Bicol Express Recipe

This Bicol Express recipe is perfect for those who love spicy and creamy dishes. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The tender pork, creamy coconut milk, and fiery chilies make this dish incredibly satisfying. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making it an excellent option for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Pork belly – 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Cooking oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
  • Onion – 1 large, chopped
  • Ginger – 1 tablespoon, minced
  • Green chilies – 5-6 pieces, sliced
  • Red chili peppers – 2-3 pieces, chopped (adjust to taste)
  • Shrimp paste (bagoong) – 2 tablespoons
  • Coconut milk – 2 cups
  • Fish sauce – 1 tablespoon
  • Salt and pepper – to taste
  • Brown sugar – 1 teaspoon (optional, to balance heat)
  • Fresh basil or green onions – for garnish

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and minced ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Step 2: Add the pork belly pieces to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until lightly browned.
  3. Step 3: Stir in the shrimp paste (bagoong) and cook for another 2 minutes to release its flavors.
  4. Step 4: Add the green chilies and red chili peppers. Stir well to coat the pork with spices.
  5. Step 5: Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Step 6: Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
  7. Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add brown sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce.
  8. Step 8: Garnish with fresh basil or chopped green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips for the Best Bicol Express

  • Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of chili peppers or remove the seeds to lessen the heat.
  • Use fresh coconut milk: For an authentic and richer flavor, use freshly squeezed coconut milk. Canned coconut milk works well too if fresh is unavailable.
  • Don’t skip the shrimp paste: It adds a distinct umami flavor that makes Bicol Express unique. You can substitute with fish sauce if needed, but the flavor will differ.
  • Marinate the pork: For even more flavor, marinate the pork belly in a bit of fish sauce and pepper for 30 minutes before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Bicol Express is best enjoyed with steamed jasmine rice, which helps balance out the spiciness of the dish. For a complete Filipino meal, pair it with side dishes like:

  • Grilled eggplant salad (Ensaladang Talong)
  • Pickled papaya (Atchara)
  • Garlic fried rice (Sinangag)

Variations

This traditional Bicol Express recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences:

  • Seafood Bicol Express: Swap the pork for shrimp or fish for a lighter version.
  • Vegetarian Bicol Express: Use tofu or mushrooms instead of pork and replace shrimp paste with a pinch of sea salt.
  • Low-carb option: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of steamed rice for a keto-friendly meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make Bicol Express in advance?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Can I freeze Bicol Express?

Yes, you can freeze Bicol Express. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove before serving.

3. What can I use as a substitute for shrimp paste?

If shrimp paste (bagoong) is unavailable, you can substitute it with fish sauce or soy sauce, but the dish may lose some of its authentic flavors.

Conclusion

Bicol Express is a beloved Filipino dish that’s rich, spicy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect comfort food that brings a touch of the Philippines to your dining table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or to impress your guests, this Bicol Express recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite!

Bicol Express Recipe

Bicol Express

A classic Filipino dish featuring tender pork cooked in a spicy, creamy coconut milk sauce with shrimp paste and chilies.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Filipino
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pork belly cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger minced
  • 5-6 green chilies sliced
  • 2-3 red chili peppers chopped
  • 2 tbsp shrimp paste bagoong
  • 2 cups coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp brown sugar optional
  • Fresh basil or green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Sauté garlic, onion, and ginger in oil until fragrant.
  • Add pork belly and brown for 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in shrimp paste and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Add chilies, then pour in coconut milk and fish sauce.
  • Simmer for 20-30 minutes until pork is tender and sauce thickens.
  • Adjust seasoning, garnish, and serve hot with rice.
Keyword Bicol Express, Filipino cuisine, spicy pork dish

Photo by @Raymund Macaalay

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