Med Effort · High Impact
Dinner Party
Involtini di Melanzane
40 min active 6 ingredients
Medium Effort · High Impact
Dinner Party · Filipino
Bicol Express
Pork simmered in coconut milk and fiery chili peppers creates a rich, spicy, and decadent finish.
25 min active
45 min total
4 servings
9 ingredients
home cook
Why This Works
The high fat content of the coconut milk and pork belly balances the intense heat of the chilies, creating a harmonious and addictive dish.
The Upgrade
Garnish with fresh green chili strips and a drizzle of chili oil for an extra visual pop and layer of spice.
Chef's Secret
Michelin TechniqueUse 'latik' or coconut cream reduction; wait until the coconut milk starts to separate and release its own oil, which deepens the complexity of the stew.
Ingredients
Servings:
Total time including resting: 45 min
Directions
1
Sear the pork belly in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until the fat renders and the meat is nicely browned.
8 min2
Add garlic, ginger, and onion, sautéing until the aromatics are softened and fragrant.
4 min3
Stir in the shrimp paste, ensuring it is well incorporated to build the base umami flavor.
2 min4
Pour in the coconut milk, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook until the liquid reduces by half.
15 min5
Add the bird's eye chilies, adjusting the amount to your heat preference, and continue to simmer until the sauce thickens.
10 min6
Stir in the coconut cream and let it bubble briefly to create a glossy, thick, and rich sauce consistency.
3 min7
Serve immediately while piping hot to enjoy the contrast between the heat of the chilies and the creaminess of the coconut.
1 minWine Pairing
🍷
Gewürztraminer
White Wine
The BottleTrimbach Gewürztraminer
The inherent tropical fruit aromatics and off-dry profile of this wine tame the intense chili heat of the coconut milk base. Its oily, full body provides the necessary weight to match the richness of the curry.
Nutrition per Serving
550
calories
24g
protein
6g
carbs
48g
fat
Make It a Complete Meal
Sides the kitchen recommends alongside this dish.
Side Dish
Steamed Jasmine Rice
Serve with plenty of rice to absorb the spicy, coconut milk sauce that defines this dish.
20 min
4 servings
Ingredients
Directions
1
Rinse the rice under cold water until the starch runs clear, then drain thoroughly.
2
Combine rice, water, salt, and oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
3
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring once to ensure the rice is submerged.
4
Cover with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to the lowest possible setting.
5
Simmer for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
6
Fluff gently with a fork before serving alongside the Bicol Express.
Side Dish
Fresh Cucumber Salad
A light salad of sliced cucumber and tomatoes with lime juice helps cool the palate from the spicy peppers.
15 min
4 servings
Ingredients
Directions
1
Combine sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion in a chilled stainless steel mixing bowl.
2
In a small ramekin, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
3
Pour the dressing over the vegetables immediately before serving to maintain structural integrity.
4
Gently fold the ingredients with a silicone spatula to coat evenly without bruising.
5
Scatter fresh cilantro over the top.
6
Serve immediately to provide the intended sharp, cooling contrast to the Bicol Express.
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