Balatong, also known as mung beans, is a staple ingredient in Filipino cuisine. It is a versatile legume that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including as a main dish, side dish, or even as an ingredient in desserts. One popular way to cook balatong is with chicharon, which is a type of Filipino fried pork rinds. In this article, we will explore how to cook balatong with chicharon, a delicious and satisfying Filipino dish.
What is Balatong?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s first talk about what balatong is. Balatong, also known as Vigna radiata, is a type of mung bean that is commonly used in Filipino cuisine. It is a small, green legume that is rich in protein, fiber, and other nutrients. Balatong is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, steaming, sautéing, and frying.
Nutritional Benefits of Balatong
Balatong is a nutritious ingredient that offers several health benefits. It is a good source of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and potassium. Balatong is also low in calories and fat, making it a great ingredient for those who are watching their weight. Additionally, balatong has been shown to have several health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and lowering cholesterol levels.
What is Chicharon?
Chicharon is a type of Filipino fried pork rinds that is commonly used as a topping or ingredient in various Filipino dishes. It is made by deep-frying pork skin until it is crispy and golden brown. Chicharon is a popular ingredient in Filipino cuisine because of its crunchy texture and savory flavor.
Types of Chicharon
There are several types of chicharon that can be used in cooking balatong. Some common types of chicharon include:
- Pork chicharon: This is the most common type of chicharon and is made from pork skin.
- Chicken chicharon: This type of chicharon is made from chicken skin and is a popular alternative to pork chicharon.
- Vegetable chicharon: This type of chicharon is made from vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and eggplant, and is a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
How to Cook Balatong with Chicharon
Now that we have talked about what balatong and chicharon are, let’s move on to the recipe. Cooking balatong with chicharon is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook balatong with chicharon:
Ingredients
- 1 cup balatong (mung beans)
- 1 cup chicharon (fried pork rinds)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups water
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fish sauce, 1 tablespoon vinegar
Instructions
- Rinse the balatong and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the balatong to the pot and stir to combine with the garlic and onion.
- Add the water to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the balatong is tender.
- While the balatong is cooking, heat the chicharon in a separate pan over medium heat until it is crispy and golden brown.
- Once the balatong is cooked, add the chicharon to the pot and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add fish sauce and vinegar to give the dish more flavor.
- Serve the balatong with chicharon hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of chicharon on top.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the most of your balatong with chicharon recipe:
- Use different types of chicharon: Experiment with different types of chicharon, such as chicken or vegetable chicharon, to give the dish a unique flavor and texture.
- Add other ingredients: Consider adding other ingredients like diced tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms to the pot to add more flavor and nutrients to the dish.
- Use a pressure cooker: If you’re short on time, consider using a pressure cooker to cook the balatong. This can reduce the cooking time to just 10-15 minutes.
- Make it spicy: If you like spicy food, consider adding some chili peppers or hot sauce to the pot to give the dish an extra kick.
Conclusion
Cooking balatong with chicharon is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a traditional Filipino dish. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a Filipino food enthusiast or just looking for a new recipe to try, balatong with chicharon is a great option. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of the Philippines!
What is Balatong and how is it used in Filipino cuisine?
Balatong, also known as mung beans, is a type of legume commonly used in Filipino cooking. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and stir-fries. In the context of the dish being discussed, Balatong is the main ingredient, cooked with Chicharon (deep-fried pork rinds) to create a flavorful and textured meal.
In Filipino cuisine, Balatong is often used as a protein source, particularly in dishes where meat is not readily available. It is also valued for its nutritional benefits, being high in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. When cooked, Balatong has a mild flavor and a soft, slightly firm texture, making it a great addition to a variety of dishes.
What is Chicharon and how is it used in the dish?
Chicharon is a popular Filipino snack made from deep-fried pork rinds. It is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a rich, savory flavor. In the context of the dish, Chicharon is used to add texture and flavor to the Balatong. The crispy pork rinds are typically crushed or chopped and added to the Balatong during the cooking process, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
The use of Chicharon in the dish is a classic example of Filipino cuisine’s love for combining contrasting textures and flavors. The crunchy Chicharon provides a nice contrast to the soft Balatong, while its rich flavor enhances the overall taste of the dish. By using Chicharon, the dish becomes more engaging and enjoyable to eat.
How do I cook Balatong with Chicharon?
Cooking Balatong with Chicharon is a relatively simple process that requires some basic cooking skills. The first step is to sauté the Chicharon in a pan until it is crispy, then set it aside. Next, the Balatong is cooked in a pot of water or broth until it is tender. The cooked Balatong is then mixed with the sautéed Chicharon, along with some onions, garlic, and other seasonings.
The key to cooking a great Balatong with Chicharon is to balance the flavors and textures. The Chicharon should be crispy and golden brown, while the Balatong should be tender and flavorful. The dish should also have a good balance of salty, sweet, and sour flavors, which can be achieved by adding the right amount of seasonings and spices.
What are some common seasonings and spices used in Balatong with Chicharon?
The seasonings and spices used in Balatong with Chicharon can vary depending on personal preference and regional traditions. Some common seasonings and spices used in the dish include salt, black pepper, garlic, onions, and patis (fish sauce). Other ingredients like vinegar, soy sauce, and chili peppers can also be added to give the dish more flavor.
The use of seasonings and spices in Balatong with Chicharon is crucial in bringing out the flavors of the ingredients. The salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors of the Balatong and Chicharon, while the garlic and onions add a pungent flavor. The patis and fish sauce add a salty, umami flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Can I use other types of protein instead of Chicharon?
While Chicharon is a key ingredient in Balatong with Chicharon, it is possible to use other types of protein instead. Some options include diced pork, chicken, or shrimp, which can be cooked with the Balatong to create a different flavor and texture. However, keep in mind that using other types of protein may alter the character of the dish and make it less traditional.
Using other types of protein can also affect the cooking time and method. For example, if using diced pork or chicken, it may be necessary to cook the protein separately before adding it to the Balatong. This can add more complexity to the dish and require more cooking skills.
Is Balatong with Chicharon a healthy dish?
Balatong with Chicharon can be a nutritious and healthy dish, depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. The Balatong is a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious ingredient. However, the Chicharon is high in fat and calories, which can make the dish less healthy if consumed in excess.
To make Balatong with Chicharon a healthier dish, it is possible to use less Chicharon or substitute it with a lower-fat ingredient. Additionally, using more vegetables and spices can enhance the flavor of the dish without adding more fat or calories. By being mindful of the ingredients and cooking methods, it is possible to create a healthier version of Balatong with Chicharon.
Can I serve Balatong with Chicharon as a main dish or side dish?
Balatong with Chicharon can be served as either a main dish or side dish, depending on the occasion and personal preference. As a main dish, it can be served with steamed rice or other staple foods. As a side dish, it can be served with other Filipino dishes, such as grilled meats or stir-fries.
The versatility of Balatong with Chicharon makes it a great option for various meals and occasions. It can be served at family gatherings, parties, or even as a simple weeknight meal. By adjusting the serving size and accompaniments, it is possible to adapt the dish to different situations and preferences.