A Comfort Food Classic: Nilagang Baboy Recipe
In the rich tapestry of Filipino cuisine, few dishes evoke the same sense of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia as Nilagang Baboy. Literally translated as “boiled pork,” this humble dish is a staple in many Filipino homes, often served during family gatherings, rainy day meals, or cozy Sunday lunches.
It’s a one-pot wonder that showcases the beauty of simplicity — pork simmered gently until tender, flavored with peppercorns and onions, and paired with a medley of hearty vegetables like potatoes, cabbage, corn, and green beans. The broth is light yet deeply flavorful, allowing each ingredient to shine in its own way. What makes Nilagang Baboy truly special, however, is the emotional connection it fosters — every spoonful brings back memories of mom’s kitchen, the chatter of loved ones, and the unmistakable comfort of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or exploring Filipino recipes for the first time, this dish is a perfect introduction to the soul of Pinoy cooking: warm, honest, and always made with love.
🌿 Nilagang Baboy Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need
- 500g pork belly, cut into chunks
- 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced thinly
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 1 sayote (chayote), peeled and sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, quartered
- 1 cup string beans (sitaw), trimmed
- 1 small head of cabbage, cut into large chunks
- 1–2 green chili peppers (optional, for a mild heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6–7 cups of water
👨🍳 Nilagang Baboy Recipe: Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Sauté for Aroma
In a deep pot, place the pork belly with ginger and onions. Simmer or lightly sauté for a few minutes until fragrant.
2. Boil and Simmer
Add water and bring to a boil. Remove scum that rises to the top for a clearer broth. Simmer for 45 minutes or until pork is tender.
3. Add Root Vegetables
Add potatoes and sayote. Cook for about 10–12 minutes or until they’re almost soft.
4. Toss in the Greens
Add string beans and chili. Simmer for another 5–6 minutes. Finally, toss in the cabbage and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes more until cabbage is slightly wilted but still vibrant.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve piping hot with white rice and patis (fish sauce) with calamansi or chili on the side.
🌶️ Flavor Boosting Tips
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for better aroma.
- Add chili whole if you want flavor without too much heat.
- For a richer broth, use pork with bone like ribs or knuckles.
💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-friendly using basic pantry and market ingredients
- Nutritious with vegetables like sayote and cabbage
- Kid-friendly with optional spice
- Meal prep-friendly—just store in the fridge and reheat easily
Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for yourself, Nilagang Baboy is a timeless Filipino soup you can always rely on. It’s warm, nourishing, and easy to make with simple ingredients. Make it once, and it just might become your go-to weekday comfort meal.
Nilagang Baboy Recipe: A Bowl Full of Heritage and Heart
Nilagang Baboy is more than just a hearty soup — it’s a bowl full of Filipino heritage, memories, and warmth. Whether it’s served during a rainy afternoon, a Sunday lunch with the family, or a simple weekday dinner, this dish brings people together around the table. Its simplicity is its strength: a clear broth, tender pork, and naturally sweet vegetables that speak to the heart of home cooking.
Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust it to suit your family’s taste. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting your culinary journey, Nilagang Baboy Recipe is a timeless dish that’s easy to master and impossible not to love. So go ahead — serve it with steamed rice, share it with loved ones, and savor every spoonful of this soulful Filipino classic.
