How to Make Bicol Express (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Bicol Express is a beloved Filipino dish hailing from the Bicol region, renowned for its bold flavors and generous use of chili peppers and coconut milk. This classic recipe is a staple in many Filipino dinners, offering a rich and creamy taste with a spicy kick that perfectly embodies the vibrant culture of the Philippines. Traditionally, it features pork simmered in coconut milk, balanced with the heat from siling labuyo (bird’s eye chilies), and often complemented by shrimp paste (bagoong alamang). Bicol Express is more than just a dish—it's a culinary representation of the Bicolano people's love for spicy, flavorful food. The creamy coconut sauce, fragrant aromatics, and tender pork create a comforting meal that's both satisfying and memorable. Its popularity has spread throughout the Philippines, making it a favorite dinner choice for families and gatherings. Opting for a health-conscious adaptation keeps the soul of the dish while making it suitable for calorie trackers and international food lovers looking for authentic yet wholesome Filipino cuisine.
Ingredients
- 250g Lean pork loin (cut into thin strips)
- 1 cup Coconut milk (gata)
- 1 small Onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1-inch piece Ginger (sliced thinly)
- 4 pieces Green finger chilies (siling haba, sliced)
- 2 pieces Bird’s eye chili (siling labuyo, finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Shrimp paste (bagoong alamang, rinsed)
- 1/2 piece Red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 teaspoon Coconut oil (for sautéing)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Heat coconut oil in a deep skillet over medium heat
Heat coconut oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and onions are translucent.
Step 2 · Add the sliced pork loin and cook until lightly browned on all sides
Add the sliced pork loin and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
Step 3 · Stir in the shrimp paste and cook for 1 minute to release its flavor
Stir in the shrimp paste and cook for 1 minute to release its flavor.
Step 4 · Pour in the coconut milk and add the green finger chilies and bird’...
Pour in the coconut milk and add the green finger chilies and bird’s eye chili. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5 · Lower the heat and simmer uncovered
Lower the heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the sauce thickens to your preference.
Step 6 · Add red bell pepper (if using) and season with salt and black peppe...
Add red bell pepper (if using) and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 7 · Serve hot with steamed rice
Serve hot with steamed rice, garnished with extra chilies if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
Choosing lean pork and using less oil significantly reduces calories and saturated fat, making this Bicol Express ideal for anyone tracking their macros or aiming for a healthier diet. The use of coconut milk in moderation retains the creamy texture without excess calories. The addition of vegetables boosts fiber and micronutrients, making this Filipino classic a balanced and wholesome dinner option.
A note on tradition
Bicol Express is a hallmark of Bicolano cuisine, famous for its spicy dishes and love of coconut milk. It was named after the Bicol Express train route and is traditionally served during family gatherings, fiestas, and everyday meals across the region. Its fiery heat reflects the Bicolano spirit, and it has become a comfort food throughout the Philippines, especially during celebrations or rainy seasons.