Monggo
Soups • Philippines
About Monggo
Monggo, known in carinderias and homes all over the Philippines, is a hearty mung bean soup that’s often served as an affordable, filling ulam with steamed rice. Usually cooked with malunggay leaves, bits of garlic and onion, and sometimes flavoured with coconut milk, monggo can be vegetarian or enriched with small amounts of pork, chicharon, or tinapa, depending on the household and day of the week. Its mild, earthy flavor is especially popular on Fridays, as many families observe meatless meals; but it’s also served routinely as a merienda, offering a nutritious option for midday or afternoon eating. Nutritionally, monggo is a modest soup: a typical 100g portion has 85 kcal, with a decent 6g protein and 4g fiber, making it light enough for a side dish yet robust enough for a main when eaten with rice. Some versions get heavier if coconut milk or fatty pork is added, so if you’re watching calories, opt for the plain vegetarian variety. For those who want a health boost, monggo is packed with protein and fiber from the mung beans, with low total fat. To keep portion control, start with a small bowl and pair with gulay or other sides for a balanced meal. At carinderias, monggo is a go-to for affordable, nutritious eating, and many buy it as a practical, everyday soup for sharing.
How to Make Monggo (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Monggo, also known as Mung Bean Soup, is a beloved comfort food in Filipino households, cherished for its hearty flavor and nourishing qualities. This traditional soup traces its roots to the rural regions of the Philippines, where mung beans are a staple crop. Monggo is typically prepared as a wholesome meal, combining mung beans with vegetables and savory pork or shrimp, creating a delicious blend of flavors and textures. The soup is not only satisfying but also economical, making it a popular choice for families seeking nutritious meals with simple ingredients. Its mild, earthy taste and rich aroma evoke memories of home and togetherness, especially during rainy days or as a nourishing lunch after a long morning. Monggo is celebrated for its versatility; it easily adapts to various diets and preferences, and is served both in rural kitchens and urban dining tables across the archipelago. With its high nutritional value and comforting nature, Monggo remains a staple of Filipino cuisine and a great option for anyone seeking authentic, healthy, and flavorful Filipino food.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl (about 400 ml))
- 1 cup Mung beans (monggo)
- 120 grams Pork loin (cubed)
- 1 cup Spinach leaves (or local 'malunggay' leaves)
- 1 medium Tomato (diced)
- 1 small Onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil (for sautéing)
- 4 cups Water
- 1 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- 1
Rinse mung beans thoroughly and drain. Place in a pot with 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until beans are tender.
15 minutes
Soak mung beans for 30 minutes beforehand to reduce cooking time.
- 2
In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil. Sauté garlic, onion, and tomato until fragrant and softened.
5 minutes
Ensure garlic does not burn for best flavor.
- 3
Add cubed pork loin to the pan. Cook until lightly browned and pork is cooked through.
5 minutes
Trim excess fat from pork for a healthier soup.
- 4
Transfer sautéed pork and vegetables into the pot of cooked mung beans. Stir well to combine.
2 minutes
Scrape pan bits into the soup for extra flavor.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This traditional Monggo recipe is a healthy choice because it combines protein, fiber, and micronutrients in one hearty bowl. The use of lean pork and fresh vegetables keeps calories moderate and maximizes nutrition. It is filling yet light, supporting weight management and stable blood sugar levels. Monggo is naturally low in fat and can be easily adapted to fit various health needs, making it ideal for those seeking wholesome, nutrient-rich meals.
Monggo is rich in plant-based protein from mung beans and lean pork, making it an excellent source of essential amino acids. It is high in dietary fiber, promoting digestion and satiety. The addition of spinach or malunggay provides vital vitamins like A and C, plus minerals such as iron and calcium. Tomatoes add antioxidants and vitamin C, while garlic and onion offer anti-inflammatory compounds. This balanced soup is low in saturated fat and cholesterol when lean pork is used, and provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Pre-soak mung beans for faster cooking and improved digestibility.
- 💡Tip 2: Add malunggay for authentic Filipino flavor and extra nutrients.
- 💡Tip 3: Use lean meats or tofu for healthier protein options.
Storage & Serving
Cool leftovers completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 85.0 kcal |
| Protein | 6.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 13.0 g |
| Total Fat | 1.0 g |
| Fiber | 4.0 g |
Cultural Notes
Monggo is a staple ulam in carinderias and is traditionally served for meatless Fridays. Its affordability and versatility make it popular in everyday Filipino home cooking.
