Sinigang na Baboy: A Flavorful Filipino Pork Soup

Sinigang na Baboy is a beloved Filipino dish known for its savory and sour flavors. This hearty pork soup, packed with vegetables, is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork belly, cut into cubes
• 8 cups water
• 1 medium onion, quartered
• 2 medium tomatoes, quartered
• 1 radish (labanos), sliced
• 1 cup long green beans (sitaw), cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup eggplant, sliced
• 1 cup water spinach (kangkong)
• 2-3 tablespoons tamarind paste (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons fish sauce (patis)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green chili peppers (siling pangsigang)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the pork belly and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, remove any scum that forms on the surface, then add the quartered onion and tomatoes. Simmer for about 30 minutes until the pork is tender.
3. Add the sliced radish and cook for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Stir in the long green beans and eggplant, and continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the tamarind paste and fish sauce, adjusting to taste. If using fresh tamarind, boil it separately and strain to extract the juice, then add it to the pot.
6. Finally, add the water spinach and green chili peppers. Cook for 2 more minutes until the greens are wilted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
8. Serve hot with steamed rice.