Pinakbet is a Filipino vegetable dish from the north of the Philippines. It consists of varied local vegetables, commonly grown in the backyard such as bitter gourd, eggplant, okra, squash, sweet potato and many other vegetables. I replace the bitter gourd with sponge gourd, to avoid the bitter taste so my two boys will like it.
This dish can also be accompanied with grilled or fried fish, and meat such as beef or pork. In this recipe, we will cook it with beef.
Ingredients
Onion
Garlic
Ginger
Beef, bone in
Squash, cubed
Tomatoes, quartered
String beans
Eggplant, wedged
Sponge gourd
Moringa leaves
Okra, top and tail
Shrimp paste or fermented fish
Preparations
Make a beef broth by boiling the meat with herbs and water. Simmer it for 30 - 45 minutes. Drain and reserve the liquid.
In a preheated pan, Add enough oil, Saute garlic, ginger and onion.
Add the meat and combine well.
Next, add the shrimp paste or fermented fish, stir and let it sit for a few minutes.
Then, add the squash and tomatoes.
Add 1 - 2 cups of the beef broth and let it boil. Reduce the heat and add the remaining vegetables, lid on and cook until vegetables are tender.
Adjust your seasoning and serve warm with rice.
Tips:
In case, your using bitter gourd, avoid stirring it frequently to reduce the bitter taste of the vegetable.
The broth definitely brings out the flavor of the dish. A one pot meal that is tasty, healthy and budget friendly.
I have a little helper who is enjoying the textures and learning different vegetables. One of the best places where we can nurture children's confidence and a great opportunity to create special memories.
Thank you for coming. Have a wonderful day.