Discover the authentic flavors of Filipino Pork or Beef Menudo with this easy recipe! This hearty stew combines tender meat, vibrant vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, serve it over rice for a delicious meal everyone will love!

Filipino pork menudo is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This hearty stew combines tender pork (or beef) with a medley of vegetables in a rich tomato-based sauce. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this Filipino menudo recipe is sure to satisfy.

What Makes Filipino Menudo Special?

Menudo stands out among Filipino dishes for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of savory pork (or beef, if preferred), sweet raisins, and tangy tomatoes creates a complex taste profile that keeps you returning for more. The addition of potatoes and carrots adds heartiness, while the bell peppers provide a pop of color and freshness.

My mom cooks this particular menudo recipe for us, especially when I am home on vacation. She told me that to give the meat a really good flavor, you need to cook it with fresh tomatoes rather than just dump it with tomato sauce.

Also, she does not use tomato sauce (though that’s fine if you prefer to use this instead) but ketchup because it’s a little sweeter than tomato sauce (at least the Filipino ketchup!) and enhances the flavor of the whole stew.

Another technique she told me is to make sure that you put the ketchup only towards the end of cooking so it does not overpower the whole dish but “enhances” it. I think that using fish sauce for seasoning makes this a tasty dish.

This dish is so good that you won’t miss the liver pate added to traditional menudo. My hubby doesn’t like liver, so I am glad I can make a delicious menudo without it! Thanks, Mom!

Key Ingredients for Authentic Filipino Menudo

Pork: Use pork belly, shoulder, or boneless ribs cut into 1-1.5 inch cubes (beef may be used if preferred, though it’s not traditional)
Aromatics: Onions and garlic form the flavor base
Tomatoes: Fresh plum tomatoes add brightness
Fish sauce: For that umami kick (can substitute soy sauce)
Potatoes and carrots: For substance and nutrition
Ketchup or tomato sauce: To enhance the tomato flavor
Raisins: For a touch of sweetness
Bell pepper: Adds color and crunch

NOTES:

*If you’re not a fan of fish sauce you can replace it with Soy sauce (start with 1-2 Tablespoons) and a little lemon juice (2 teaspoons). You can adjust the taste to your liking. Fish sauce is great, though, so use this if able to.

How to Cook Filipino Pork or Beef Menudo

Place the pork cubes in a large pan or Dutch oven and let it cook in medium heat until it changes its color. No need for any oil as the meat will release some of its fat in the process. Add the garlic and onions and sauté. Season with a little salt. Continue to cook until the pork has browned (but not fried) and the onions have softened.

Add the tomatoes and fish sauce and continue to sauté for a couple of minutes. Add the bay leaves. Cover and simmer on low until the pork is tender.

When the pork is already tender, add the water, potatoes and carrots. Cook covered until the vegetables are tender. Add the sweet peppers, raisins and the ketchup (or tomato sauce). Cook for another 5 minutes or just until the raisins are re-hydrated and the sauce is fully heated through.

Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If it’s a little tart, sprinkle some brown sugar to balance the taste. Don’t make it too sweet as you have raisins to balance the sour and savory flavor of the other ingredients. It should just be a perfect balance of sweet, tart and salty! Have it with rice, of course!

Tips for the Perfect Menudo

Pork selection: Choose a cut with some fat for the best flavor and texture. Pork belly is traditional, but shoulder works well too.
Vegetable sizing: Cut potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Raisin lovers: Don’t be afraid to add extra raisins if you enjoy their sweetness in the dish.
Sauce consistency: The final dish should have a thick, rich sauce. If it’s too watery, simmer uncovered to reduce.
Serving suggestion: Filipino menudo is best enjoyed over a bed of steaming white rice.

Menudo Variations to Try

While pork is traditionally used to make authentic menudo, you can certainly try other meat types when cooking this dish. Adjust the cooking time depending on which meat you are using.

Beef menudo: Substitute beef chuck for pork for a different flavor profile.
Chicken menudo: Use chicken thighs for a lighter version of the dish.
Vegetarian menudo: Replace meat with firm tofu or additional vegetables like chickpeas.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Menudo

Menudo often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce. It may also be frozen. Thaw and reheat before eating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)about Menudo

Can I make menudo in a slow cooker?
Yes, menudo adapts well to slow cooking. Brown the meat and aromatics first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is Filipino menudo spicy?
Traditional Filipino menudo is not spicy. However, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

Can I freeze menudo?
Absolutely! Menudo freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What’s the difference between Filipino and Mexican menudo?
Filipino menudo is a tomato-based pork stew, while Mexican menudo is a spicy soup made with tripe and hominy.

Can I omit the liver often found in traditional recipes?
Yes, many modern versions of Filipino menudo omit liver. This recipe doesn’t include it, focusing instead on the tender pork and vegetables.

Filipino pork menudo is a versatile dish perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Give this easy menudo recipe a try and discover why it’s a beloved staple in Filipino cuisine!

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