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Bicol Express Recipe

Experience the fiery thrill of Bicol Express, a legendary Filipino dish named after the iconic Manila-Bicol train! This intensely flavorful stew packs a spicy punch from native chilies and savory depth from shrimp paste and coconut milk. Perfect for adventurous palates, it's a rewarding culinary journey, though some ingredients may require a trip to your local Filipino or Asian grocery store. Prepare for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 307.9 kcal
Protein 42g
Rating 5.0 (3 Reviews)
Bicol Express 16

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Bicol Express

  • Green Chili
  • 2 tablespoons shrimp paste (bagoong alamang)
  • Garlic Cloves
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 1 pound pork belly (cubed)
  • Plum Tomato
  • Vegetable Oil
  • 1 (13.5 ounce) can of coconut milk

How to Make Bicol Express

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Sauté 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 medium onion (chopped), and 1 large tomato (chopped) until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add 1 pound of pork belly (cubed) to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Pour in 1/2 cup of water, bring to a simmer, and cook until the pork is tender and most of the water has evaporated, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of shrimp paste (bagoong alamang).
  5. Add 6-10 Thai chilies, or more to taste (finely chopped or sliced). Adjust the amount depending on your spice preference.
  6. Pour in 1 (13.5 ounce) can of coconut milk, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
  7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
  8. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, or to taste.
  9. Serve hot with steamed rice. Enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

2 g

Sugar

30g

Fat

44g

Carbs

4g

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60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Cuisine Preparation Main Dish Asian Filipino Inexpensive