A Comfort Food Classic: Nilagang Baboy Made Even Better
When it comes to Filipino comfort food, Nilagang Baboy reigns supreme. With its clear broth, tender pork, and soft vegetables, this dish is a warm hug in a bowl. But this version of Nilagang Baboy features a delicious mix of sayote (chayote), patatas (potatoes), cabbage, and chili—offering both familiar flavors and a refreshing twist. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with nutrients—perfect for everyday meals or when you need something soothing.
🌿 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
👨🍳 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.
