Adobong Sitaw (String Beans Cooked Adobo-style)
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 bunch sitaw (string beans), trimmed at both ends and cut into 2-inch length (should yield about 3 cups of uniformly cut string beans)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup white vinegar
- ½ lb. minced pork
- 1 pc. chicken bouillon cube
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium-sized red onion, finely chopped
- 2 pcs. bay leaves
- ¼ tsp. sugar or to taste
- salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup water or as needed
- 2 tbsps. cooking oil
- 3 pcs. eggs, hardboiled and peeled (optional)
PROCEDURE:
- In a large saucepan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Stir fry the pork until the color turns brown and almost rendering fat.
- Add the garlic and onion. Sauté until translucent and very fragrant.
- Pour in the soy sauce, vinegar, bay leaves, chicken bouillon cube, sugar and water. Bring to a steady simmer for about 5 minutes. Do not stir.
- Add the string beans and cook for about 5 minutes or until the beans are half-cooked. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove from heat and then add the hardboiled eggs (optional). Transfer in a platter and serve along with hot steamed rice. Enjoy!
**Number of Servings: 3 to 4
TIPS FROM ENZ:
- You can use bacon or ham instead of pork for added flavor.
- Egg is just optional. If you opt for purely vegan, omit the eggs and pork and substitute them with tofu and mushrooms.
- Do not overcook the string beans to retain its texture.