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:
  1. In a large saucepan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Stir fry the pork until the color turns brown and almost rendering fat.
  2. Add the garlic and onion. Sauté until translucent and very fragrant.
  3. 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.
  4. Add the string beans and cook for about 5 minutes or until the beans are half-cooked. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
  5. 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:
  1. You can use bacon or ham instead of pork for added flavor.
  2. Egg is just optional. If you opt for purely vegan, omit the eggs and pork and substitute them with tofu and mushrooms.
  3. Do not overcook the string beans to retain its texture.