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Bicol Express featuring creamy coconut sauce, pork, and chili peppers in a bowl

Creamy Bicol Express

Creamy Bicol Express is a delightful Filipino dish combining rich flavors of pork and coconut milk, enhanced with spicy chili peppers, creating a comforting and hearty meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Filipino
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 lb pork belly, sliced Use fresh pork for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup coconut milk Choose high-quality coconut milk for richness.
  • 3-4 pieces Thai chili peppers, chopped Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons shrimp paste (bagoong) Can be replaced with soy sauce for a different taste.
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce Can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • Green onions for garnish Use for fresh garnish.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. In a pan, sauté the garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant.
  2. Add the pork belly and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in the shrimp paste and fish sauce.
  4. Pour in the coconut milk, and bring to a simmer.
  5. Add the chopped chili peppers and cook until the pork is tender and the sauce thickens.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

Notes

Serve with steamed rice for a delicious meal. For spice lovers, serve extra chili on the side. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.