Easy Pork Menudo Recipe

Pork Menudo is a classic Filipino stew that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. With tender pork, liver, and vibrant vegetables in a rich tomato sauce, it’s a comforting dish served with steamed rice. This simplified recipe captures the essence of “lutong bahay” (home cooking) in an easy-to-follow format.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh produce.
• Quick Prep: Ready in about 1 hour, with minimal hands-on time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serves 4-6, perfect for sharing.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork shoulder (kasim), cut into ½-inch cubes
• ¼ lb pig liver, cut into ½-inch cubes
• 1 cup potatoes, diced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• ½ cup soy sauce
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¾ cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 cup water (or beef broth for extra flavor)
• 4 Filipino hotdogs, sliced diagonally (optional)
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 2-3 dried bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Instructions

1. Marinate the Pork
   In a large bowl, mix pork cubes with soy sauce and lemon juice. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour. (Tip: Let it sit out for 15 minutes before cooking.)
2. Sauté the Aromatics
   Heat 2 tbsp cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Brown the Pork
   Add marinated pork to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
4. Simmer the Stew
   Pour in tomato sauce, water (or broth), and add bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then lower heat, cover, and simmer for 30-60 minutes until pork is tender. Add more water if needed to keep it saucy.
5. Add Liver and Hotdogs
   Stir in diced liver and hotdog slices (if using). Cook for 5 minutes. (Optional: Sauté liver separately with ginger to reduce gaminess.)
6. Cook the Vegetables
   Add potatoes, carrots, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 8-12 minutes until veggies are tender but not mushy.
7. Serve
   Serve hot with steamed white rice. Enjoy the comforting flavors of home!

Tips for Success

• Liver Hack: If liver’s flavor is too strong, soak it in milk for 30 minutes before dicing.
• Customize It: Add green peas, raisins, or garbanzos for regional twists.
• Texture Check: Adjust veggie cooking time for your preferred crunch.

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Cool completely, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat:
  • Stovetop: Warm over low heat until 165°F (74°C), stirring occasionally.
  • Microwave: Heat in 2-3 minute intervals, stirring in between.

Menudo vs. Afritada vs. Kaldereta

• Menudo: Diced pork and liver, with potatoes and carrots in tomato sauce.
• Afritada: Fried pork or chicken, with green peas and bell peppers.
• Kaldereta: Beef or goat with mashed liver or liver spread, often spicy with chili flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables (atchara) for a complete Filipino meal. Share your creation on Instagram with #PorkMenudoLove!