Uy, Christmas na! The joy of eating pork hamonado comes from its balance between sweetness and saltiness. The vinegar cuts through the richness of the pork, while the sugar adds an underlying sweetness that complements each bite perfectly. It’s also usually served with side dishes like steamed white rice or pancit which helps offset some of its richness and make it a more substantial meal.
This dish is particularly popular at Christmas when families gather around their tables to enjoy this traditional Filipino dish. There are various regional variations of hamonado throughout the Philippines; some regions may add pineapple juice or soy sauce for added sweetness and flavor while others may opt for calamansi or lemon juice as a souring agent.
Pork hamonado is truly an iconic representation of Filipino culture and cuisine – especially during Christmas!
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. pork shoulder, sliced into cubes
- 1 1/2 cups cubed pineapple
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 yellow onion, medium, chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, chopped
- 3 tbsp cooking oil
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- Salt & pepper, as needed
Directions:
- Heat the oil in your pan and sauté the garlic plus onion until fragrant. Add the pork and cook within 5 minutes until light to medium brown.
- Add the pineapple, stir and cook within 3 minutes. Pour the soy sauce, and stir. Add the beef broth and let it boil. Simmer within 45 to 50 minutes.
- Mix in the sugar and season with salt plus pepper as needed. Continue to cook within 3 to 5 minutes more and serve!
Nutrition: Calories: 539; Carbs: 35g; Fat: 31g; Protein: 30g
