Bicol Express Recipe

Introduction

Bicol Express is a beloved Filipino dish known for its bold, spicy flavors and creamy texture. The irresistible combination of tender pork, fresh vegetables, and fiery chilies simmered in coconut milk makes it a surefire crowd-pleaser. This recipe is straightforward enough for everyday cooking yet impressively delicious for entertaining guests—no wonder it remains a favorite in Filipino cuisine.

Why Bicol Express Stands Out

What truly sets Bicol Express apart is its balance of rich coconut creaminess and spicy kick from the chilies. The dish is endlessly customizable: you can amp up the heat, make it milder, or tweak the ingredients to suit your palate. Its vibrant flavors are matched by the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of pork, making every bite an explosion of taste.

Ingredient Preparation: Tips for Authentic Flavor

Perfecting Bicol Express begins with properly prepping your ingredients. Achieve consistent cuts and retain essential juices by using a sharp set of Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3. To slice the garlic, onions, and chilies efficiently, a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper can significantly save time. Clean and dice your pork belly into bite-sized pieces, and don’t forget to measure your coconut milk and shrimp paste for best results.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

Cooking Bicol Express requires close attention and careful layering of ingredients. Start by sautéing the aromatics in a nonstick skillet—choose a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch for even heat distribution and easy cleanup. Gradually add the pork and let it sear until golden, then introduce the shrimp paste, chilies, and finally the luscious coconut milk. Let everything simmer until flavors meld and pork becomes delectably tender.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

For an appealing presentation, serve Bicol Express hot, accompanied by a mound of fluffy white rice. If you have leftovers, portion them into Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) for freshness and easy reheating. This dish also transports well for potlucks or family gatherings, ensuring you can enjoy its flavor even the next day.

Nutritional Information & Serving Yield

A typical serving of Bicol Express (about 1 cup) contains approximately 400–450 calories, depending on the fat content of the pork and the amount of coconut milk used. This recipe yields about 5–6 hearty servings—perfect for family-style dining or sharing with friends.

Bicol Express: A Taste Explosion Recap

Bicol Express is the ultimate Filipino comfort food, guaranteed to delight anyone who loves spicy, savory dishes. With a little prep and the right kitchen tools, you can bring this traditional masterpiece to your table with impressive ease.

Instructions

1. Heat the cooking oil in your SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the pork belly. Stir and cook until the meat is lightly browned and fat renders, around 8–10 minutes.
3. Stir in the shrimp paste and continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors develop.
4. Add sliced chilies and continue cooking for 2 more minutes. (Adjust the number of chilies based on your heat preference.)
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered until pork is tender and sauce has reduced, about 20–25 minutes.
6. Add coconut cream (or additional coconut milk) for extra richness. Stir and let simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss in sliced bell peppers if using, and cook until just softened.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice, using a Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl, Khaki Green if taking on the go. Enjoy immediately or store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for easy meal prep.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

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With its luscious coconut gravy, tender pork, and tantalizing heat, Bicol Express is a testament to how simple techniques and fresh ingredients create unforgettably rich flavors. Try this classic recipe the next time you crave something exciting and comforting!