A Classic Filipino Vegetable Dish with a Savory Twist
Ginisang Sitaw is a simple yet flavorful Filipino dish that combines the natural crunch of string beans with the savory richness of ground pork. This home-cooked favorite is made with everyday ingredients and delivers a perfect balance of taste and texture. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a comforting family meal.
The addition of tomatoes, garlic, and onions enhances the dish with aromatic layers, while the optional sinigang mix or sampalok gives it a subtle tangy twist. Whether paired with steamed rice or enjoyed on its own, Ginisang Sitaw is a Filipino classic you’ll love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes with simple steps.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber from string beans and protein from pork.
- Customizable: Add a tangy kick with sinigang mix or keep it savory with classic seasonings.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch string beans (sitaw), cut into 3-inch pieces
- 1 medium tomato, cubed
- 6 ounces ground pork
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Sinigang mix or sampalok (optional, for a tangy flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the Oil
In a pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the crushed garlic, sliced onion, and cubed tomato to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and softened.
3. Cook the Ground Pork
Add the ground pork to the pan. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork turns medium brown.
4. Season the Dish
Stir in the fish sauce, ground black pepper, and optional sinigang mix or sampalok. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.
5. Add the String Beans
Put in the string beans and gently stir to combine them with the pork and seasonings. Cover the pan and let it cook over low to medium heat for 7-10 minutes, or until the beans are tender but still crisp.
6. Stir and Serve
Remove the cover and give the dish a final stir to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Tips for the Perfect Ginisang Sitaw
- Don’t Overcook the Beans: Keep the beans tender-crisp for the best texture.
- Add a Tangy Twist: The sinigang mix or sampalok is optional but adds a delightful tang to the dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh string beans and ripe tomatoes bring out the best flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
This Ginisang Sitaw recipe is a comforting, versatile dish that’s easy to make and full of bold flavors. The combination of ground pork and string beans, enhanced by fish sauce and optional tangy notes, creates a well-balanced meal perfect for any occasion.