Pinakbet or Pakbet (Meat Vegetable Stew with Shrimp Paste)

Pinakbet or Pakbet (Meat Vegetable Stew with Shrimp Paste)

Ingredients 

  • 1/2 lb. pork, sliced
  • 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 squash, cubed
  • 2 cups sliced okra
  • 2 cups 1-1/2 inch long cut sitaw (yard long beans)
  • 2 eggplants, sliced
  • 1 ampalaya (bitter gourd and/or bitter melon), sliced
  • 1 to 1-1/2 cup water
  • 2 to 3 tbsp. bagoong alamang (salted shrimp paste)

Method

Step 1

In a large, deep skillet (or casserole), heat oil over medium heat. Cook pork until it turns slightly brown.

Step 2

Stir in garlic, onions and tomatoes. Sauté for a few minutes until tomatoes wilted.

Step 3

Add squash and okra, stir-fry for a minute or two and then add the rest of the vegetables. Gently stir to combine.

Step 4

Pour in water and add the bagoong alamang, and bring to a boil.

Step 5

Lower the heat and simmer covered over low heat until vegetables are tender. Be sure not to overcook it. You may wish to correct the taste by adding a little bit of bagoong alamang. Gently stir to blend.

Step 6

Immediately remove from heat. Transfer to a serving dish. Serve hot.