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Creamy and spicy Bicol express,

Bicol Express 

This creamy and spicy bicol express recipe is so creamy that you can't stop digging into it!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Course Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine Filipino
Servings 6 servings
Calories 530 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
  • 8 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 piece Ginger thumb-sized(minced)
  • 2 pieces Onions medium(minced)
  • 1 kilogram Pork Belly (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 4 tbsp Shrimp Paste / Bagoong
  • 2 cans Coconut milk (800ml)
  • 10-12 pieces Long Green Peppers / Siling Haba (sliced diagonally)
  • 4 pieces Bird's Eye Chili / Siling Labuyo minced (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 can Coconut Cream (400ml)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces. Slice the green chili peppers diagonally and mince the bird's eye chili if using.
  • Heat the cooking oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant. Add the minced onions and cook until they become translucent.
  • Add the pork belly to the pan and cook until it starts to brown and the fat renders out, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the shrimp paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the pork is well-coated.
  • Pour in the coconut milk, stir to combine, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the sauce starts to thicken.
  • Add the sliced long green chili peppers and the minced bird's eye chili (if using). Stir and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
  • Pour in the coconut cream and stir well.Continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  • Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with steamed rice.
  • Enjoy your homemade Bicol Express! Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred spice level.

Video

Notes

  • Fresh coconut milk (kakang gata) gives a richer flavor compared to canned versions. If using canned, opt for a good-quality brand.
  • Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to develop further.
  • Some variations include adding shrimp, squid, or vegetables like string beans and eggplant.