Deliciously Simple: Mastering the Classic Ginisang Recipe

I love Filipino food. When my sister-in-law was alive, I always enjoyed visiting their house for meals. Her mom was an amazing cook, and watching her in the kitchen taught me to pay close attention to recipes. One of my many favorite Filipino food is Ginisang. 

History of Ginisang:

"Ginisang" is derived from the Filipino word "sautéed" or "stir-fried." The term "Ginisang" is used to describe a variety of Filipino dishes that involve sautéing ingredients, typically with garlic, onions, and tomatoes as a base.

The technique of sautéing is a fundamental part of Filipino cooking and reflects a broader influence of various culinary traditions in the Philippines. The use of ingredients such as pork, vegetables, and tomatoes in Ginisang dishes showcases a blend of indigenous Filipino ingredients with influences from Spanish colonization, which introduced new cooking techniques and ingredients to Filipino cuisine.

Ginisang recipes often vary from region to region, incorporating local ingredients and preferences. For instance, in some areas, the recipe might include seafood or different vegetables. The dish exemplifies the Filipino love for flavorful, hearty meals that are both satisfying and versatile.

Historically, Ginisang dishes are reflective of the Filipino approach to cooking—simple yet rich in flavor, making use of accessible ingredients to create nutritious and comforting meals. As a staple in Filipino households, Ginisang embodies the country's culinary heritage and adaptability.

Ingredients:

• 500g ground pork (or beef or chicken)
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced (red or green)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 cup water or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.

2. Cook Pork: Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula.

3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

4. Add Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they start to break down and blend with the pork.

5. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrot and potato. Cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.

6. Season: Add the soy sauce and fish sauce (if using). Stir well to combine.

7. Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes) and mix well.

8. Simmer: Add water or chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together, about 15-20 minutes.

9. Add Green Beans and Bell Pepper: Stir in the green beans and bell pepper. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.

10. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a bit of sugar if needed.

11. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice.