Pork Bicol Express
Bicol Express is the Philippines’ answer to comfort food with a kick: tender pork belly slowly simmered in coconut milk with shrimp paste and a generous handful of fresh chilies until the sauce turns thick, creamy, and deeply savory. Named after the express train route to the Bicol region famous for its love of spicy food, this dish balances heat with the mellow richness of coconut cream. Serve it hot over steamed rice for a true taste of Bicolano cooking.
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Instructions
- Heat oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant and softened.
- Add the pork belly strips and cook until lightly browned on the edges, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the shrimp paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to release its aroma.
- Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the sauce has reduced.
- Add the coconut cream and green and red chilies. Simmer uncovered for another 8-10 minutes until the sauce thickens and turns a deep orange-red.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Cook's Tip
Add the coconut cream only in the final stretch of cooking, not at the start — simmering it too long can cause the sauce to separate and turn oily instead of staying rich and creamy.