Filipino Pork or Beef Menudo

Place the pork cubes in a large pan or Dutch oven and let it cook in medium heat until it changes its color. No need for any oil as the meat will release some of its fat in the process. Season with a little bit of salt.

Add the garlic and onions and sauté. Continue to cook until the pork has browned (but not fried all the way) and the onions have softened.

Add the tomatoes and fish sauce and continue to sauté for a couple of minutes. Add the bay leaves. Cover and simmer on low until the pork is tender (about 45 minutes or so) Check occasionally.

When the pork is already tender, add the water or broth, potatoes and carrots. Cook covered until the vegetables are tender. Add the sweet peppers, raisins and the ketchup. Cook for another 5 minutes or just until the raisins are re-hydrated and the sauce is fully heated through.

Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If it’s a little tart, sprinkle some brown sugar to balance the taste. Don’t make it too sweet as you have raisins to balance the sour and savory flavor of the other ingredients. It should just be a perfect balance of sweet, tart and salty! Have it with rice, of course!