Tag Pic Pac Recipe Ideas for Quick and Delicious Meals

Tag pic pac, a beloved traditional Filipino dish, is a comforting stew that perfectly blends tender pork, savory shrimp paste, and an assortment of fresh vegetables. This delightful recipe is known for its rich, umami-packed flavor and hearty texture, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking to explore Filipino cuisine or craving a unique, satisfying stew, tag pic pac will surely impress your taste buds.

In this blog post, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this authentic dish right in your kitchen. From gathering the right ingredients to mastering the cooking techniques, you’ll gain all the tips you need to make tag pic pac a regular favorite.

Plus, we’ll share some handy variations, nutritional insights, and serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tag pic pac is a dish that brings a burst of flavor with every bite. The combination of pork and shrimp paste creates a depth of taste that’s both savory and slightly sweet, balanced by the freshness of vegetables like eggplant, string beans, and bamboo shoots.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences or ingredient availability. It’s a perfect comfort food that is hearty yet not overly heavy, making it suitable for family dinners or special gatherings.

Plus, once you master this recipe, you’ll have a wonderful introduction to Filipino home cooking that you can build on with other exciting dishes.

Ingredients

• 500g pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons shrimp paste (bagoong)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
• 1 cup eggplant, cubed
• 1 cup string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup water or pork broth
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 small chili pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)

Equipment

• Large pot or deep pan for cooking
• Knife for chopping ingredients
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring spoons
• Bowl for prepping vegetables

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Chop the pork belly into bite-sized pieces. Slice the bamboo shoots, cube the eggplant, cut the string beans into 2-inch pieces, and chop the onion, garlic, and tomatoes.
2. Heat the cooking oil: Place your large pot or deep pan over medium heat. Add the oil and let it warm up for about a minute.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the pork belly: Toss the pork pieces into the pot. Stir frequently and cook until the pork is lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Mix in tomatoes and shrimp paste: Add the chopped tomatoes and shrimp paste (bagoong). Stir well to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
6. Add water or broth: Pour in 1 cup of water or pork broth. Stir to incorporate all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the pork to tenderize.
7. Add the vegetables: Add the bamboo shoots, eggplant, and string beans to the pot. Stir to mix everything evenly. Cover the pot and let it simmer for another 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
8. Season the stew: Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you want a little heat, add the small chili pepper now. Simmer for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
9. Final stir and serve: Give the stew a final stir. Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Tips & Variations

Want a lighter version? Use lean pork cuts instead of pork belly and reduce the amount of shrimp paste.

For a vegetarian twist, try substituting the pork with firm tofu and use a vegetarian shrimp paste alternative or miso paste for depth of flavor.

If you prefer a richer broth, add a splash of coconut milk just before serving. This will add a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness of the shrimp paste.

For additional crunch and freshness, garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

Tag pic pac is traditionally enjoyed with steamed white rice, which perfectly absorbs the flavorful broth. For a healthier option, serve it with brown rice or quinoa.

Complement the dish with a light, refreshing side salad like our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

For a complete Filipino-inspired meal, pair tag pic pac with Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or a side of Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food to keep the meal hearty and satisfying.

Conclusion

Tag pic pac is a remarkable dish that beautifully showcases the essence of Filipino home cooking. Its blend of savory shrimp paste, tender pork, and fresh vegetables creates a comforting stew that’s both flavorful and nourishing.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is approachable and rewarding, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

By following this guide, you’ll not only enjoy a delicious meal but also gain insight into the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and tips provided to make this dish truly your own.

For more inspiring and wholesome recipes, explore our collection of plant-based meals and vegetarian delights to keep your kitchen exciting. Happy cooking and enjoy your tag pic pac!

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