Authentic Sinigang na Baboy - Filipino Pork Soup

Sinigang na Baboy is a traditional Filipino pork soup known for its savory and tangy flavor. This comforting dish features tender pork simmered with fresh vegetables in a sour tamarind broth, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork belly, cut into chunks
• 8 cups water
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 2 medium tomatoes, quartered
• 1 cup tamarind paste or 1 cup fresh tamarind pods
• 2 cups water spinach (kangkong), washed
• 1 cup radish (labanos), sliced
• 1 cup eggplant, sliced
• 2 green chili peppers
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (patis)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the quartered onions and tomatoes, sautéing until softened.
2. Add the pork belly chunks to the pot, browning them for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in 8 cups of water and bring to a boil. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface.
4. Add the tamarind paste (or fresh tamarind pods) and fish sauce to the pot. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the pork is tender.
5. Once the pork is tender, add the sliced radish, eggplant, and green chili peppers. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
6. Finally, stir in the water spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.