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
- 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)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Rinse mung beans thoroughly and drain
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.
Step 2 · In a separate pan
In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil. Sauté garlic, onion, and tomato until fragrant and softened.
Step 3 · Add cubed pork loin to the pan
Add cubed pork loin to the pan. Cook until lightly browned and pork is cooked through.
Step 4 · Transfer sautéed pork and vegetables into the pot of cooked mung beans
Transfer sautéed pork and vegetables into the pot of cooked mung beans. Stir well to combine.
Step 5 · Season with salt and black pepper
Season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 6 · Add spinach or malunggay leaves and simmer until just wilted
Add spinach or malunggay leaves and simmer until just wilted. Remove from heat.
Step 7 · Serve hot
Serve hot. Garnish with additional fresh greens if desired.
Why this recipe 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.
A note on tradition
Monggo is widely cooked across the Philippines, especially in Luzon, where it is a staple for Friday meals and Lenten seasons. It is often served in homes as a budget-friendly, nutritious dish, and enjoyed during rainy days. Monggo reflects the Filipino value of resourcefulness, using simple ingredients to create filling, healthy meals for the family.