Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley

Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley is a dish that’s perfect for anyone looking for a simple, flavorful meal. The golden, crispy pork pairs beautifully with a mix of colorful vegetables, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The crispy pork adds a rich, savory taste, while the vegetables bring freshness and crunch to each bite. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley is a quick and delicious option that everyone will love.

The Secret to Crispy Perfection

The magic of Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley lies in the way the pork is cooked. First, the pork is seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic, then pan-fried until it turns a perfect crispy brown. The vegetables are tossed in the pan with the pork, absorbing the flavors and adding a tender crunch to the dish. The crispy edges of the pork make each bite exciting and add that satisfying crunch everyone loves. Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley gives you the perfect balance of texture and taste.

Vibrant and Healthy Veggies

In addition to the crispy pork, the vegetables add a burst of color and nutrition. Bright bell peppers, carrots, and green beans bring both sweetness and a slight crispness that pairs beautifully with the savory pork. These vegetables cook just enough to keep their freshness while still soaking in all the savory juices from the pork. Every forkful of Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley is a combination of hearty meat and vibrant vegetables, making it a meal everyone can enjoy.

A Simple Yet Flavorful Meal

Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley is the perfect meal for those busy weeknights when you crave something easy yet full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you can have this tasty dish ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a dish that everyone in the family can enjoy, from the crispy pork to the fresh vegetables. Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley proves that sometimes, simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

Chef’s Notes- Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley

• Pork Belly Preparation: For maximum crispiness, make sure the pork belly is thoroughly dried before slicing. This prevents excess moisture that could affect the crisping process. If you’re cooking the pork belly from scratch, pan-fry it until golden and crispy, then slice it thinly.
• Alternative Cooking Method for Pork: If you’re short on time, you can use bacon or pancetta as a substitute for crispy pork belly. These options cook faster while still providing a similar crispy texture.
• Vegetable Selection: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix based on availability. For example, zucchini can replace the ampalaya (bitter melon) for a milder flavor. Swap out the sweet potato (kamote) for regular potatoes if preferred.
• Bagoong Alamang: If you’re looking for a lower-sodium alternative, replace bagoong alamang (fermented shrimp paste) with fish sauce. Fish sauce has a similar salty umami flavor but is often lighter in sodium content.
• Simmering Tip: Don’t rush the simmering process. Allow the flavors to meld together by simmering the broth for at least 20 minutes, which helps the pork belly become tender while infusing the vegetables with rich flavor.
• Healthy Option: If you’re watching your fat intake, drain excess fat from the crispy pork belly after frying. This helps reduce the overall fat content while maintaining the crispy texture.
• Seasoning Adjustment: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the black pepper or bagoong alamang as necessary. Each ingredient has a different saltiness level, so it’s important to balance the flavors according to your preference.
• Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with steamed rice, quinoa, or a side of roti for a balanced meal. The rich, savory flavors of the dish complement these neutral bases perfectly.
• Adding Fresh Herbs: For extra flavor, garnish with freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or spring onions. A squeeze of calamansi or lime before serving can bring a refreshing acidity to the dish.

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Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: Main Course, Side DishCuisine: FilipinoDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

35

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Total time

45

minutes

Dive into the rich flavors of our Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley, a beloved dish that combines succulent pork belly with a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables. This recipe brings the essence of traditional Filipino cuisine to your table with simplicity and ease. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it offers a harmonious balance of savory and hearty tastes that will leave your guests craving more. Let your kitchen be inspired by this delightful medley, crafted with love and expert technique to ensure every bite is a masterpiece. Elevate your cooking game and enjoy a dish that’s both nutritious and irresistibly tasty!

Ingredients

• Proteins

• 1 pound crispy pork belly thinly sliced

• Vegetables

• 12 green beans cut into 2-inch lengths

• 1/2 medium squash cubed

• 12 okra pods trimmed

• 2 tomatoes diced

• Aromatics

• 2 thumbs ginger crushed (optional)

• 1 medium onion chopped

• 4 cloves garlic crushed

• Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons fermented shrimp paste (bagoong alamang)

• 1 Knorr Shrimp Cube

• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

• Liquids and Oils

• 2 1/2 cups water

• 3 tablespoons cooking oil

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Lechon Kawali: Substitute with bacon or pancetta for a similar crispy texture.

• Bagoong Alamang: Use fish sauce as a lower-sodium alternative.

• Knorr Shrimp Cube: Replace with homemade shrimp broth or another brand of shrimp bouillon.

• Ampalaya: If unavailable substitute with zucchini for a milder flavor.

• Kamote: Sweet potatoes can be replaced with regular potatoes for a different sweetness level.

Directions

• Heating and Sautéing: Warm 3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
• Adding Aromatics and Pork: Incorporate the crushed ginger into the pot, continuing to cook for another 2 minutes until the mixture is well combined. Introduce the sliced crispy pork belly, stirring continuously for about 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld.
• Simmering the Broth: Pour in 2 1/2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the Knorr Shrimp Cube and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes to infuse the broth with rich flavors.
• Incorporating Vegetables and Seasonings: After simmering, add the diced tomatoes and 2 teaspoons of bagoong alamang to the pot. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution. Cover the pot again and allow it to cook for an additional 3 minutes, just until the vegetables are tender yet retain their color and crunch.
• Final Touches: Season with 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, adjusting to taste. Give the dish a final stir before removing it from the heat. Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional black pepper or fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.

Equipment

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• nonstick pan
• pot

Notes

• For the crispiest pork, ensure the pork belly is thoroughly dried before slicing. If you prefer a healthier version, consider draining excess fat after frying the pork. Pair this medley with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Adding a splash of calamansi or lemon juice can elevate the flavors with a touch of acidity. For added depth, incorporate a dash of soy sauce during the simmering stage. Feel free to customize the vegetable mix based on seasonal availability or personal preference to keep the dish fresh and exciting every time you prepare it.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 450kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Potassium: 700mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 30g
• Vitamin A: 20IU
• Vitamin C: 15mg
• Calcium: 100mg
• Iron: 3mg

FAQ- Crispy Pork and Vegetable Medley

Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork belly?

Yes, you can substitute pork belly with bacon or pancetta for a quicker cooking time and similar crispiness. For a leaner option, you can also use chicken thighs or pork tenderloin, though the texture will differ.

What is a good substitute for fermented shrimp paste (bagoong alamang)?

If you don’t have bagoong alamang, you can use fish sauce or soy sauce as a lower-sodium alternative. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. To reheat, gently warm it up in a pan or microwave. Just be sure to store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

What vegetables can I substitute for the ones listed in the recipe?

If any of the vegetables listed are unavailable, feel free to substitute with similar vegetables. Zucchini can replace ampalaya (bitter melon), sweet potatoes can be swapped with regular potatoes, and bell peppers can replace okra or Chinese eggplant.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can add chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a spicy kick. If you prefer a milder spice, try adding red pepper flakes during the simmering stage for a subtle heat.