Pork Menudo
Pork Menudo is a hearty and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. It is a rich and savory Filipino stew made with tender pork, liver, and a colorful medley of vegetables. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious, Pork Menudo is an excellent choice, perfect for family gatherings or special celebrations.
Why Make This Recipe
Pork Menudo is not only delicious but also versatile and adaptable to your taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to enjoy a homemade meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The balance of flavors, from the tangy lemon to the subtle sweetness of raisins, creates a delightful dish that comforts the soul. Plus, it allows you to be creative; you can adjust ingredients according to what you have on hand. This makes it a practical meal for any occasion.
How to Make Pork Menudo
Ingredients
To prepare a delightful serving of Pork Menudo, gather the following ingredients:
- 750g pork (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 1⁄2 tbsp lemon extract/juice
- 300g pork liver (cut into small pieces)
- 1 tbsp lemon extract/juice
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- Soy sauce (to taste)
- 2 pcs chorizo/sausage (sliced)
- 9 pcs potato marbles (or regular diced potatoes)
- 2 small carrots (sliced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
- 6 tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups hot water
- 1⁄3 cup tomato sauce
- 1⁄4 cup green peas
- 1⁄4 cup dried raisins
- Cooking oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Cheese (for topping)
Directions
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Begin by marinating the pork and pork liver separately. In two bowls, combine the lemon extract, soy sauce, and ground black pepper with the pork and liver. Let them marinate for about 1 hour, and set aside the marinade sauce.
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Next, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots and potato marbles, frying them until they are lightly browned. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, fry the marinated pork liver for about 3 minutes until it is cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside as well.
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Using the same pan, start sautéing the minced garlic and chopped onion until they’re aromatic. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and sliced bell pepper, sautéing until they soften.
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Now, add the marinated pork and bay leaves to the pan. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Pour in the marinade sauce you set aside earlier, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This will enrich the dish with even more flavor.
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Afterward, add the tomato sauce and hot water to the pan. Cover it and let everything simmer for 20 minutes or until the pork is tender.
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Once the pork is tender, return the carrot, potatoes, and raisins to the pan. Allow it to simmer until the vegetables are cooked through.
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Finally, add the fried pork liver, sliced chorizo, and green peas. Allow everything to simmer for about 5 more minutes.
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To finish, sprinkle the Pork Menudo with grated cheese and add salt to taste. Simmer a bit longer until the flavors are well absorbed and the sauce thickens.
Pro Tips for Success with Pork Menudo
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Marination is Key: Make sure to marinate the pork and liver thoroughly for the best flavor. If you have time, letting them sit overnight in the fridge can enhance their taste even more.
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Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and good-quality pork and liver. This will significantly elevate the dish’s overall flavor.
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Adjust Cook Time: Depending on the size of your pork pieces, you might need to adjust the cooking time to ensure tenderness.
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Add Spice: If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding a chili pepper or two during the sautéing phase. It can elevate the flavor profile.
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Presentation Matters: When serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or more cheese to give your dish an enticing look.
Flavor Variations of Pork Menudo
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Add More Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like green beans or bell peppers to make the dish even heartier and colorful.
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Swap Proteins: Try using chicken or smoked turkey as a substitute for pork for a different flavor. Tofu can also work well for a vegetarian option.
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Different Sauces: For a tangy twist, experiment with different sauces like hoisin or oyster sauce along with the soy sauce for a unique flavor.
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Sweet or Spicy: If you prefer a sweeter dish, add more raisins or even a splash of pineapple juice. For heat, add crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions for Pork Menudo
Pork Menudo is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. You can enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with:
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Steamed Rice: This classic combination is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
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Crusty Bread: Serve it alongside crusty bread for a delightful meal.
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Salad Side: A simple green salad can balance the richness of the Pork Menudo.
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Pickled Vegetables: Serve with pickled vegetables for a balance of flavors.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Pork Menudo
Storing leftover Pork Menudo is simple! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
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Refrigeration: It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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Freezing: If you’re looking to save it for a longer period, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
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Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help rehydrate the dish.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|———–|————-|
| Calories | 400 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
FAQ About Pork Menudo
What can I use instead of pork in Pork Menudo?
If you’re looking for alternatives to pork, you can use chicken or turkey to retain the stew’s rich flavor. For a vegetarian option, tofu or lentils can make a satisfying substitute.
How long does Pork Menudo last in the fridge?
Pork Menudo can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days if stored properly in an airtight container. To maintain its flavor and texture, ensure it’s cooled before refrigerating.
Can I make Pork Menudo in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, letting it sit overnight after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I omit the raisins from the recipe?
Yes, you can definitely omit the raisins if you prefer a less sweet taste. Alternatively, you can substitute them with chopped dates or simply leave them out altogether.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can create a vegetarian version of Pork Menudo by replacing the pork with mushrooms, tofu, or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of meat marinade and adjust seasonings for depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Pork Menudo is a comforting, delicious, and versatile dish perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a special celebration, or just a cozy meal at home, this recipe will delight your taste buds and warm your heart. With the tips and variations provided, you can make it your own while enjoying the rich flavors that define this classic Filipino dish. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful meal with loved ones!
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Pork Menudo
- Total Time: 100 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful Filipino stew made with tender pork, liver, and a colorful medley of vegetables.
Ingredients
- 750g pork (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 1⁄2 tbsp lemon extract/juice
- 300g pork liver (cut into small pieces)
- 1 tbsp lemon extract/juice
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- Soy sauce (to taste)
- 2 pcs chorizo/sausage (sliced)
- 9 pcs potato marbles (or regular diced potatoes)
- 2 small carrots (sliced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
- 6 tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups hot water
- 1⁄3 cup tomato sauce
- 1⁄4 cup green peas
- 1⁄4 cup dried raisins
- Cooking oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Marinate the pork and liver separately in lemon extract, soy sauce, and black pepper for 1 hour.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the carrots and potatoes until lightly browned, then set aside.
- In the same pan, fry the marinated pork liver for about 3 minutes and set aside.
- Sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until aromatic, then add chopped tomatoes and bell pepper.
- Add the marinated pork and bay leaves; sauté for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the marinade sauce and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add tomato sauce and hot water, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until pork is tender.
- Add back the carrots, potatoes, and raisins; simmer until vegetables are cooked.
- Finally, add fried pork liver, chorizo, and green peas; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with grated cheese and add salt to taste.
Notes
Marinate the pork and liver overnight for enhanced flavor. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of pork pieces.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stewing
- Cuisine: Filipino