Filipino Dinuguan Stew (Keto, Low-Carb)

Filipino Dinuguan, also known as “Pork Blood Stew” or “Dinuguan”, is a traditional Filipino dish made with pork and a rich, savory sauce that includes pork blood. It’s known for its deep, complex flavors and is often enjoyed with steamed rice or rice cakes. Here’s a closer look at what makes Dinuguan unique:

Key Characteristics of Dinuguan

Main Ingredients:

    • Pork: The dish typically includes pork cuts like pork belly, pork shoulder, or pork offals (such as liver or heart), cut into bite-sized pieces.
    • Pork Blood: The distinctive ingredient in Dinuguan is pork blood, which thickens and enriches the sauce. In traditional recipes, this ingredient is essential for achieving the characteristic flavor and texture.
    • Aromatics and Seasonings: The dish is flavored with garlic, onions, and sometimes ginger. Seasonings include soy sauce, vinegar, and fish sauce, contributing to its tangy and savory profile.
    • Chilies: Green chilies or red chili flakes are often added for a bit of heat.

    Preparation:

      • Sautéing: Aromatics such as garlic and onions are sautéed in oil to create a flavor base.
      • Cooking the Pork: The pork pieces are added and browned, then simmered with seasonings and broth.
      • Adding Pork Blood: The pork blood is gradually stirred into the pot. It thickens the stew and imparts a rich, dark color.

      Flavor Profile:

        • Savory and Tangy: Dinuguan has a deep umami flavor from the pork and blood, balanced with tanginess from vinegar.
        • Rich and Hearty: The dish is known for its rich texture and complex flavor, with a slightly spicy kick if chilies are used.

        Serving:

          • Accompaniments: Dinuguan is traditionally served with steamed rice or puto (Filipino rice cakes). The rice cakes complement the stew’s rich sauce.
          • Main Dish: It is usually served as a main course during lunch or dinner.

          Cultural Significance:

            • Special Occasions: Dinuguan is often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings. It is a popular dish in Filipino households and can be found at many local eateries.
            • Regional Variations: The recipe may vary slightly from region to region, with some versions incorporating additional ingredients like coconut milk or different cuts of pork.

            Variations

            • Dinuguan sa Gata: A variation that includes coconut milk, giving the stew a creamier texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
            • Lechon Dinuguan: Uses leftover roasted pig (lechon) instead of fresh pork.

            Dinuguan is a unique dish that showcases the depth and variety of Filipino cuisine, combining rich, hearty flavors with a traditional cooking method.

            Dinuguan, also known as Filipino Pork Blood Stew, is a savory and rich dish made with pork, often including pork blood as a key ingredient. To make a keto-friendly version, we’ll adjust the recipe to avoid high-carb ingredients and focus on low-carb alternatives. Here’s how to prepare a delicious and keto-friendly Dinuguan:

            Filipino Dinuguan Stew Recipe (Keto, Low-Carb)

            Prep Time: 15 minutes

            Cook Time: 45 minutes

            Total Time: 1 hour

            Ingredients

            • 1 lb (450g) pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
            • 1/2 lb (225g) pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
            • 1/2 cup pork blood (available at Asian grocery stores; can substitute with extra broth and a bit of heavy cream if not available)
            • 1 tbsp coconut oil
            • 1 large onion, chopped
            • 4 cloves garlic, minced
            • 2-3 green chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
            • 1 tbsp fish sauce
            • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a lower-carb option)
            • 1 cup chicken or pork broth
            • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
            • 1 tbsp erythritol or monk fruit sweetener (optional, to balance flavors)
            • 1 tsp ground black pepper
            • 1 tsp paprika
            • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
            • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for added richness)

            Instructions

            Prepare the Meat:

              • Heat coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
              • Add the pork belly and pork shoulder pieces, and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

              Sauté Aromatics:

                • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
                • Stir in the sliced green chilies and cook for another 2 minutes.

                Add Seasonings:

                  • Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), ground black pepper, paprika, and salt. Mix well.

                  Simmer:

                    • Pour in the chicken or pork broth and apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine.
                    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the pork is tender.

                    Add Pork Blood:

                      • If using pork blood, gradually stir it into the pot. Continue to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the stew thickens and the blood is fully incorporated. If you can’t find pork blood, you can omit it and add a bit more heavy cream for richness.

                      Finish with Cream:

                        • If using, stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning with more salt or sweetener if needed. Let the stew cook for an additional 5 minutes.

                        Serve:

                          • Serve hot. Enjoy it on its own or with a side of cauliflower rice for a complete keto meal.

                          Nutritional Information (Per Serving, assuming 4 servings):

                          • Calories: 350
                          • Protein: 23g
                          • Fat: 28g
                          • Total Carbohydrates: 6g
                          • Fiber: 1g
                          • Net Carbs: 5g

                          Notes:

                          • Pork Blood: If you can’t find pork blood or prefer not to use it, you can substitute with extra broth and a bit of heavy cream to mimic the rich, creamy texture.
                          • Adjust Spiciness: The green chilies add a bit of heat, so adjust according to your preference. You can also add extra chili flakes or omit them entirely.

                          This keto-friendly Dinuguan provides a savory, hearty dish while staying within low-carb guidelines. Enjoy this classic Filipino stew with a modern, keto twist!