BEST DELICACIES IN BICOL THAT YOU MUST TRY!

      BICOL EXPRESS

        Bicol Express     is a popular, spicy Filipino dish from the Bicol region, known for its rich, creamy coconut milk base, tender pork, and potent chili peppers, all seasoned with garlic, onions, ginger, and shrimp paste. Named after the Bicol Express train, the dish was popularized in the 1970s and offers a flavorful, savory, and spicy profile that perfectly complements steamed rice.  

INGRIDIENTS:

   

• Pork: Typically pork belly, cut into cubes or slices. 
• Shrimp Paste (Bagoong Alamang): A fundamental ingredient for its savory, fermented flavor. 
• Coconut Milk: Provides the creamy, rich base of the sauce. 
Coconut Cream: Adds extra richness and helps the sauce thicken, sometimes called "kakang gata" when fresh. 
Chilies: Green chilies (siling haba) are used as a vegetable, while red chilies (Thai chilies or siling labuyo) are for added heat. 
Garlic: Minced for aromatic flavor. 
Onion: Finely diced or sliced for sweetness and body. 
Ginger: Minced or grated to add a warm, pungent note. 

Optional Ingredients

Cooking Oil: Used to sauté the aromatics and brown the pork. 
Water: Can be added to dilute the coconut milk. 
Flavor Enhancers: Some recipes suggest Knorr Pork Cubes or MSG for a boost of umami and pork flavor. 
Salt and Pepper: For tasting and adjusting seasoning to your preference.