Pork Guisantes (Filipino Pork and Peas Stew) is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender pork, sweet peas, and a savory tomato-based sauce. This Filipino recipe, often enjoyed as an everyday meal, reflects the rich fusion of Spanish influences with local Filipino ingredients. The word “guisantes” means “peas” in Spanish, highlighting the use of green peas in the dish. This hearty stew is simple to make and pairs perfectly with steamed rice, making it a family favorite in many Filipino households.

The Origins of Pork Guisantes

Pork Guisantes is rooted in the history of Spanish colonization in the Philippines, which introduced a variety of stews and braises into Filipino cuisine. Over time, Filipinos adapted these dishes to suit local tastes and available ingredients. The addition of pork, tomatoes, and peas gives Pork Guisantes its characteristic balance of savory and subtly sweet flavors.

Key Ingredients

• Pork: Pork shoulder or belly is commonly used for this dish, as it becomes tender when simmered. The fat from the pork enhances the richness of the sauce.
• Green Peas: Fresh or frozen green peas are added towards the end of cooking to maintain their bright color and texture.
• Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: These form the base of the stew, lending it a slightly tangy and savory flavor. Fresh tomatoes are often sautéed with onions and garlic before adding tomato sauce.
• Bell Peppers: Often included to add sweetness and a slight crunch to the dish.
• Garlic and Onions: Essential aromatics that add depth to the stew.
• Soy Sauce: A touch of soy sauce adds umami and saltiness, a hallmark of Filipino cooking.

How to Cook Pork Guisantes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup water or broth
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and the onions become translucent.
2. Brown the Pork: Add the pork pieces to the pan, stirring occasionally until the meat is browned on all sides. This helps seal in the flavors of the pork.
3. Add Tomatoes and Peppers: Toss in the diced tomatoes and sliced bell peppers. Cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the peppers to soften slightly.
4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and black pepper. Stir to combine the ingredients.
5. Simmer the Stew: Add water or broth to the pan. Lower the heat and let the stew simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the pork becomes tender. You can adjust the liquid depending on how thick or soupy you want the sauce to be.
6. Add Green Peas: Once the pork is tender, add the green peas. If you’re using frozen peas, allow them to cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. If using fresh peas, cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
7. Season to Taste: Taste the stew and add salt or more soy sauce if needed.
8. Serve: Pork Guisantes is best enjoyed with a steaming plate of white rice. The savory, tomato-based sauce seeps into the rice, making every bite flavorful.

Variations and Tips

• Alternative Proteins: While pork is the traditional choice, you can substitute chicken or beef for different variations of the dish. Chicken thighs work especially well for a lighter version.
• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding chopped chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper can give the dish a spicy kick.
• Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of water or let the stew simmer longer uncovered. For a richer texture, some cooks like to add a small amount of flour or cornstarch to the sauce.

Serving and Pairing

Pork Guisantes is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. Its bold flavors pair excellently with a variety of side dishes. Steamed white rice is the most traditional accompaniment, but garlic fried rice also complements the savory notes of the dish.

For a complete meal, you can serve Pork Guisantes with a side of lumpiang shanghai (Filipino spring rolls), a tangy vinegar dipping sauce, or a refreshing tomato and onion salad on the side.

Conclusion

Pork Guisantes is a delicious and comforting Filipino dish that brings together the tender textures of pork and the vibrant flavors of peas and tomatoes. Its simplicity, balanced flavors, and versatility make it a go-to recipe for families across the Philippines. Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or looking to revisit a nostalgic favorite, this hearty stew is sure to satisfy your cravings for something warm and flavorful.