Filipino Boiled Pork Soup: Comforting Nilagang Baboy Dish

Nilagang baboy, also known as Boiled Pork Soup, is a comforting Filipino dish that features tender chunks of pork simmered in a flavorful broth with an assortment of vegetables. The dish typically includes cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and sometimes corn on the cob, creating a hearty and nutritious meal. The broth is seasoned with garlic, onions, peppercorns, and fish sauce or salt, giving it a savory depth of flavor. Nilagang baboy is often served piping hot, perfect for warming up on a chilly day, and is commonly enjoyed with steamed rice on the side. It's a beloved comfort food in Filipino cuisine, cherished for its simplicity and satisfying taste.

The ingredients for Nilagang baboy (Boiled Pork Soup) typically include:

Pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into chunks
Water
Garlic, minced *If Preferred*
Onion, sliced
Peppercorns or Ground Black Pepper
Fish sauce or salt, to taste
Potatoes, peeled and quartered *If Preferred*
Carrots, peeled and sliced *If Preferred*
Cabbage, chopped into wedges
Corn on the cob, cut into thirds
Onion leaves, chopped
Baby bok choy, whole or halved

To adjust the ingredients for your preferred taste, you can customize the following:

Pork: Choose your preferred cut of pork, such as pork shoulder for a leaner option or pork belly for a richer flavor.

Seasonings: Adjust the amount of garlic, onion, and peppercorns to your liking. You can also experiment with adding other herbs and spices like bay leaves or ginger for extra flavor.

Saltiness: Control the saltiness by adjusting the amount of fish sauce or salt added to the broth. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste.

Vegetables: Customize the vegetables based on your preferences. You can add more of your favorite veggies like sweet potatoes, green beans, or spinach, or omit any vegetables you don't enjoy.

Herbs: Include fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness and aroma.

By making these adjustments, you can tailor Nilagang Baboy to suit your taste preferences while still enjoying a delicious and comforting meal.