Are you a fan of spicy Filipino dishes? If so, you’ve likely heard of Bicol Express – a flavorful stew made with pork, coconut milk, and shrimp paste.
But what if you don’t have shrimp paste on hand or simply don’t like the taste? Can you still make this beloved dish?
The answer is yes! In this article, we’ll explore how to cook Bicol Express without shrimp paste and share some tips for making it just as delicious.
So, get ready to spice up your kitchen and satisfy your cravings with this mouth-watering recipe.
Can I Cook Bicol Express Without Shrimp Paste?
Traditionally, Bicol Express is made with shrimp paste, which adds a unique umami flavor to the dish. However, if you don’t have shrimp paste or prefer not to use it, there are alternatives that can still give you that same delicious taste.
One option is to use balaw or salted small shrimp instead of fermented shrimp paste. These ingredients can be found in most supermarkets and can be used as a substitute for shrimp paste.
Another alternative is to use fish sauce or bagoong isda. However, it’s important to note that the outcome may be different from the traditional recipe and may not have the same depth of flavor.
If you’re looking for a completely shrimp-free version of Bicol Express, you can try making it with just pork, coconut milk, and chili peppers. This version will still have that spicy kick and creamy texture that makes Bicol Express so popular.
What Is Bicol Express And Why Is Shrimp Paste Used?
Bicol Express is a popular Filipino dish that originated in the Bicol region of the Philippines. It is a stew made with pork, long or small chili peppers, coconut milk or cream, onion, ginger, garlic, and most importantly, shrimp paste. Shrimp paste, also known as bagoong alamang in Tagalog, is a fermented condiment made from small shrimp mixed with salt and left to ferment for several months. It adds a unique umami flavor to the dish and is a key ingredient in the traditional recipe.
The use of shrimp paste in Bicol Express is not only for its flavor but also for its nutritional value. Shrimp paste is high in protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and iodine. It is also believed to have health benefits such as improving digestion and boosting the immune system.
While shrimp paste is an important component of Bicol Express, there are alternatives for those who cannot or do not want to use it. Balaw or salted small shrimp can be used as a substitute for fermented shrimp paste. Fish sauce or bagoong isda can also be used as an alternative but may not provide the same depth of flavor as shrimp paste.
Alternative Ingredients To Shrimp Paste
If you’re looking for a substitute for shrimp paste, there are several options available. One of the best substitutes is fish sauce, which is readily available in most supermarkets. Fish sauce has a similar salty and umami flavor to shrimp paste and can be used in many of the same dishes.
Another alternative is miso paste, which is made from fermented soybeans. Miso paste has a similarly savory taste and can be used in many of the same dishes as shrimp paste. It is also much easier to find vegetarian-friendly brands of miso paste than shrimp paste.
Soy sauce is another option that can be used as a substitute for shrimp paste, but it may not have the same depth of flavor as the original ingredient. Additionally, soy sauce can make the dish turn out too dark in color.
For those who prefer vegan or vegetarian diets, there are several alternatives to fish paste that can be used. These include seaweed, shiitake mushrooms, Thai yellow bean sauce, or Chinese black bean sauce.
It’s important to note that each of these substitutes will have a slightly different flavor profile than shrimp paste, so it’s important to experiment and adjust the quantities until you achieve the desired taste. Additionally, some substitutes may require additional seasoning or spices to balance out the flavors.
How To Cook Bicol Express Without Shrimp Paste
If you want to cook Bicol Express without shrimp paste, here’s a simple recipe that you can follow:
Ingredients:
– 500g pork belly, sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups of coconut milk
– 10-15 red chili peppers, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil
Instructions:
1. In a wide pot over medium heat, heat oil. Add onions and garlic and cook until softened.
2. Add pork and cook until lightly browned.
3. Add coconut milk and let it come to a boil.
4. Add sliced chili peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Lower the heat to medium and let it simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated.
6. Serve hot over steamed rice.
The key to making this dish without shrimp paste is to use enough chili peppers to give it that spicy kick. You can adjust the amount of chili peppers according to your preference. Also, make sure to use fresh coconut milk for a creamy and flavorful dish.
Tips For Making Delicious Shrimp Paste-Free Bicol Express
If you’re making shrimp paste-free Bicol Express, there are a few tips you can follow to ensure that your dish turns out delicious:
1. Use the right pork cut: Pork cuts with interchanging layers of meat and fat such as pork belly and pork shoulder are best when cooking Bicol Express. These parts are also the most flavorful and most versatile.
2. Balance the creamy and spicy flavor: To cook the best Bicol Express, it’s important to balance its creamy and spicy flavor. Control the amount of coconut milk and chili you add. It should be tantamount to the volume of other ingredients, especially the pork.
3. Adjust the spiciness level: The level of spiciness can be modified by adjusting the amount of chili you use. Some people prefer very spicy dishes, while others prefer a milder flavor. It’s important to find the right balance for your taste.
4. Extract flavors from other ingredients: When cooking or tenderizing the pork, stir the mixture every 5 minutes to avoid lumps from forming as well as to extract the flavors of other ingredients.
5. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, onion, and ginger will add more flavor to your dish than using pre-packaged or canned versions.
By following these tips, you can make a delicious shrimp paste-free version of Bicol Express that still captures the essence of this popular Filipino dish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Bicol Express Without Shrimp Paste
Q: What can I use instead of shrimp paste in Bicol Express?
A: Balaw or salted small shrimp can be used as a substitute for shrimp paste. Fish sauce or bagoong isda can also be used, but the flavor may be different.
Q: Can I make Bicol Express without any shrimp products?
A: Yes, you can make Bicol Express without shrimp paste or any other shrimp products. Simply use pork, coconut milk, and chili peppers to create a spicy and creamy stew.
Q: Will the taste be the same if I don’t use shrimp paste?
A: The taste may be slightly different if you don’t use shrimp paste, but it will still be delicious. Using balaw or salted small shrimp can help replicate the umami flavor of shrimp paste.
Q: Can I find balaw or salted small shrimp in most supermarkets?
A: Yes, these ingredients are commonly found in most supermarkets and can be used as a substitute for shrimp paste.
Q: Is it necessary to use shrimp paste in Bicol Express?
A: While traditionally shrimp paste is used in Bicol Express, it is not necessary to use it. There are alternatives that can still give the dish its signature flavor.