Enhanced Recipesculinary collection
Home
CoursesView CuisinesWhat Can I Make?My Kitchen

QUICK AND EASY BICOL EXPRESS RECIPE | FILIPINO RECIPE | HOW TO COOK BICOL EXPRESS

Login to Save
Michelle Perez Cooks
Michelle Perez Cooks
3 recipes on Enhanced Recipes
Follow Michelle Perez Cooks to prioritize their recipes in your meal plans, pantry matches, and suggestions

Recipe Information

Recipe Available
Video-Specific Recipe

Bicol Express

Cultural Context

Originating from the Bicol region of the Philippines, Bicol Express is a beloved dish known for its rich, spicy flavor profile derived from coconut milk and shrimp paste. Traditionally, it showcases the region's penchant for chili peppers and creamy sauces, often served during festive occasions. Today, Bicol Express has gained popularity across the Philippines and in Filipino communities worldwide, with many variations adapting to local tastes.

FilipinoPHmain
45 min
medium
4 servings
Servings4
500 grams pork belly
1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup water
1 tbsp. ginger
2 tbsp. minced garlic
1 medium onion chopped
1 tsp. pork powder or seasoning
1/2 cup chopped serano chilis
pieces of hot pepper or thai chilis
2-3 tbsp. sauteed shrimp paste

pork belly

🥗Healthier: chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken thighs reduce fat while maintaining moisture.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: light coconut milk

💰Cheaper: coconut cream diluted with water

Light coconut milk lowers calories without sacrificing flavor.

shrimp paste

🥗Healthier: miso paste

💰Cheaper: soy sauce

Miso provides umami without seafood allergens.

long green chili

🥗Healthier: bell pepper

💰Cheaper: jalapeño

Bell peppers add sweetness and color without heat.

1

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

2

Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

3

Add pork belly and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

4

Stir in shrimp paste and cook for another 2 minutes.

5

Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.

6

Add long green chili, bay leaves, and black pepper.

7

Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes until pork is tender.

8

Season with sugar, salt, and lime juice to taste.

9

Serve hot with steamed rice.

Cooking Techniques

sautéingsimmering

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Allergens

seafood

Also Known As

Bicol ExpressBicolano Express

More Bicol Express Videos

(10 videos)

Similar Filipino Videos

(24 videos)

Similar Dishes From Other Cuisines

(24 videos)