Filipino Pork Menudo Recipe (Party Food Style)

Filipino Pork Menudo is a classic party dish made with tender pork, liver, potatoes, carrots, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It is a staple during birthdays, fiestas, and special occasions, loved for its savory, slightly sweet flavor and hearty ingredients.

Menu: Filipino Pork Menudo

Ingredients

• 500 grams pork (shoulder or belly), diced
• 200 grams pork liver, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 2 medium carrots, cubed
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 2 cups water or broth
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Pork

In a bowl, combine pork, soy sauce, and calamansi juice. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil in a pan. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant. This builds the flavor base of the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Pork

Add marinated pork and cook until lightly browned. Pour in the marinade and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce

Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water or broth. Stir well and simmer for 20–30 minutes until pork is tender.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Add potatoes and carrots. Cook until tender, about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Add Liver and Raisins

Add pork liver, raisins, and bell peppers. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until liver is cooked through.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips for Perfect Menudo

• Do not overcook liver to keep it tender.
• Use fresh ingredients for better flavor.
• Simmer slowly for tender pork.
• Add hotdogs for a party-style version.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking liver – becomes tough.
• Too much liquid – makes sauce watery.
• Undercooking pork – results in tough meat.
• Skipping marination – less flavor.

Extra Info / Insights

Menudo is one of the most popular Filipino party dishes and is often confused with Afritada and Mechado. The key difference is the use of liver and raisins, giving Menudo its distinct flavor. It is commonly served during celebrations and large gatherings.

FAQ

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork? – Yes, but traditional menudo uses pork.
2. Can I skip liver? – Yes, but it changes the authentic taste.
3. Can I make it sweeter? – Add a bit more raisins.
4. How long can I store it? – 3–5 days in the refrigerator.
5. Can I freeze it? – Yes, after cooking.

Internal Links

Related recipes: Chicken Menudo, Pork Afritada

Conclusion

This Filipino Pork Menudo Recipe is a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish perfect for parties and special occasions. Its savory and slightly sweet taste makes it a crowd favorite.