How to Cook Pinakbet in Easy Steps

Updated
2 min read

Pinakbet –One of my favorite dishes from the Philippines is Pinakbet. It’s a delicious and hearty vegetable stew that highlights the rich flavors of the region. If you’ve never tried it before, you’re in for a treat! Let me take you through how to make this amazing dish.

Pinakbet – A Taste of the Philippines

This vibrant dish is packed full of nutritious vegetables and a perfect balance of savory and umami flavors. The combination of ingredients makes it not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. Here’s how you can enjoy making this traditional recipe at home.

Pinakbet - A delicious vegetable stew

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium-sized eggplant, sliced
  • 1 cup string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium-sized bitter melon, sliced (optional)
  • 1 cup squash, peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 2 teaspoons shrimp paste (bagoong)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes and minced garlic. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and start to release their juices.
  3. Stir in the shrimp paste, letting it cook for a couple of minutes to infuse its flavor into the mixture.
  4. Next, add the water or vegetable broth, allowing it to come to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, add the eggplant, squash, and string beans. If you’re using bitter melon, add it as well. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the flavor as desired, depending on your preference for saltiness or sweetness.
  7. Once everything is cooked and the flavors have melded together beautifully, remove from heat.
  8. Serve hot with steamed rice and enjoy your homemade Pinakbet!

This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of local ingredients and the beautiful culinary traditions of the Philippines. Each bite is a wonderful experience that brings back memories of family gatherings and joyful feasts. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish!