Bicol Express na may Sitaw

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250 per serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bicol Express na may Sitaw combines the creamy, spicy flavors of traditional Bicol Express with the crunch and freshness of string beans (sitaw). This Filipino classic is perfect for those who crave something rich and spicy yet balanced with the natural sweetness of coconut milk. Serve it with a steaming plate of rice, and you have a meal to please the entire family.

Ingredients

• 300 grams string beans (sitaw), cut into 2-inch lengths
• 250 grams pork belly or pork shoulder, diced
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons shrimp paste (bagoong alamang)
• 3-4 pieces red chilies (siling labuyo), sliced (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup coconut cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: additional chili flakes or green chilies for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and cut the string beans (sitaw) into 2-inch pieces. Set aside.
2. Dice the pork into small, bite-sized cubes.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.

3. Cook the Pork

1. Add the diced pork to the pan. Cook until lightly browned and the fat begins to render.
2. Stir in the shrimp paste (bagoong alamang) and cook for another 2 minutes.

4. Add the Coconut Base

1. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Add the sliced chilies for spice.
3. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the pork is tender and the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Add the String Beans

1. Add the string beans to the pan and stir to coat them in the sauce.
2. Pour in the coconut cream for added richness. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the beans are tender but still slightly crisp.

6. Final Seasoning

1. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Adjust the spice level with more chilies or chili flakes, if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with additional chilies or chili flakes.
2. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips for the Perfect Bicol Express na may Sitaw

• Balance the Heat: Adjust the number of chilies to suit your spice tolerance.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh coconut milk and cream will elevate the dish’s flavor.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Add eggplant or squash for variety.
• Make It Seafood-Friendly: Substitute pork with shrimp or squid for a lighter version.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen string beans?
Yes, but fresh string beans will provide a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain them before adding.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, replace the pork with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetarian bagoong or soy sauce instead of shrimp paste.

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More Filipino Dishes You’ll Love

• Laing (Taro Leaves in Coconut Milk)
• Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw (Squash and String Beans in Coconut Milk)
• Pinakbet (Vegetable Stew with Shrimp Paste)

Bookmark this page and make Bicol Express na may Sitaw your next go-to meal. It’s a dish full of bold flavors that truly represents the richness of Filipino cuisine!