How To Cook Tocino | Best Recipes for Cooking Tocino 

Feeling lazy today, all I crave is much needed relaxation and rest. This week has been filled with eating out and ordering in, but today nothing seems to satisfy my cravings.

This is why I always make sure to have food like BBQ chicken thighs , chicken sausage , boudin , tocino, frozen lobster, bacon and even bread .

These are usually my favorite food when I’m not inclined to cook anything else. Just yesterday we enjoyed a flavorful tocino – it was truly delicious.

Introduction

More information about tocino

Tocino is a food that delicious and popular Filipino pm dish made from pork belly marinated in a special mixture of sugar, pink salt, garlic and other spices. This food often served for breakfast with fried rice and eggs, but can also be enjoyed at any time of the day.

History of filipino pork

The exact origin of filipino is unknown, but it is believed to have been influenced by Spanish colonization of the Philippines. The word “tocino” itself comes from the Spanish word “toque”, which means touch or spice.

Consumption:

We mentioned earlier that Salted Pork is not only popular in the filipino but also in other countries with a significant Filipino population. However, it is worth noting that not only Filipinos but also people of different nationalities love this game. In fact, Tocino has become popular globally and can now be found in many international supermarkets and restaurants.

Variations:

Although filipino tocino is usually made with pork, there are also many variations of this dish using different meats such as chicken and beef. Additionally, some regions have their own unique versions, which add their own flavor to the sauce.

For example, in Pampanga, a province in the Philippines famous for its cuisine, tocino is often made with an additional ingredient – annatto seeds – which gives it its characteristic red color.

Health Concerns of pork tocino | cooking homemade pork

While pork tocino may be delicious, its high sugar and sodium content make it a food that should be consumed in moderation. Too much consumption of it may lead to health concerns such as high blood pressure and diabetes. It is important for consumers to be aware of the nutritional value and make informed decisions about their diet.

tocino marinade: a game-changer for your breakfast | cook tocino 

 Way to cook tocino, tocino recipes

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

• 1/2 kilogram of thinly sliced pork
• 1/4 cup of pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 4 cloves gralic
• 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper

Step 2: Marinate the Meat

Place the thinly sliced pork in a container and add all the ingredients. Mix well until the meat is fully coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to infuse into the meat, ready to cook

Step 3: Cook on Stovetop

Once the meat has been marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Heat a pan over medium heat and add the marinated meat with the marinade. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat is fully cooked and caramelized.

Step 4: Grill or Broil in the Oven

For a crispy and charred texture, you can also grill or broil the marinated meat in the oven. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Place the meat on a greased grilling pan or baking sheet and cook for about 15-20 minutes

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once you finish to cook, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing or serving. It is usually enjoyed with garlic fried rice, sunny-side-up eggs, and atchara (pickled papaya). You can also pair it with your favorite condiments such as vinegar or spicy banana ketchup.

Tips for making tocino

• To achieve a more tender and flavorful meat, you can add 1/4 cup of calamansi juice or lemon juice to the marinade.
• You can also use chicken, beef, or even fish instead of pork for a different variation of tocino. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Leftover Cured Pork can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a pan or microwave before consuming.

Cook tocino (Store Bought) | tocino recipe

How does filipino tocino taste?

Reply: Tocino offers a delightful combination of sweetness, garlicky notes, and a hint of peppery flavor. Utilizing pork in this recipe delivers a succulent and rich taste.

How To boil Tocino?

Reply: There are also healthier ways to cook tocino without the need for frying. In this section, we will discuss how to boil tocino in water as an alternative cooking method. Boiling tocino is a healthier option compared to frying because it requires less oil. It also helps retain the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Here are some of recipes

1. In a pot, add water and bring it to a boil.
2. Once boiling, carefully add in the sliced tocino. Make sure that there is enough water to cover the tocino.
3. Let it boil for 10-15 minutes, or until the tocino is fully cooked and tender.
4. If desired, you can add some spices or herbs to enhance the flavor of the boiling water. Some popular choices are bay leaves and whole peppercorns.
5. Once done, remove the tocino from the water and let it cool down before serving.

Which part of the pig does Tocino come from?

Reply: Filipino, Tocino, a Spanish term for “bacon,” is commonly associated with the pork belly section of the pig. However, it can also be prepared using pork shoulder or any preferred cut.

NUTRITION FACTS:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to use a specific type of vinegar for the marinade?

Reply: No, you can use any type of vinegar that you prefer. However, some popular choices for tocino marinades include rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and white vinegar. Feel free to use any type of vinegar that suits your taste.

I have leftovers, what can I do with them?

Reply: Leftover tocino can be used in many ways. You can slice it up and add it to fried rice or use it as a topping for pizza. You can also chop it up and include it in omelets or salads for added protein and flavor.

How long does Tocino last in the fridge ?

Reply: When stored properly in an airtight container, cooked tocino can last for 3-4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze tocino for longer storage. Just make sure to thaw it properly before reheating.

Should I boil pork before frying?

Reply: There is no need to boil the pork before frying if you are cooking tocino. The marinating process helps tenderize the meat, making it unnecessary to boil it beforehand. However, if you prefer a more tender meat, you can certainly choose to boil it for a few minutes before frying. Remember to adjust your cooking time accordingly as boiling the meat will shorten the frying time.

Can I use other types of meat for Cured Pork ?

Reply: While pork is the most commonly used meat for tocino, you can also use chicken or beef for your recipes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as these meats may require more or less time to marinate and cook.

Conclusion

Make tocino is an easy way to bring Filipino flavors into your kitchen. With a few key ingredients and a simple sauce, now you can easily get the recipes and whip up this sweet and savory breakfast in no time. Just remember to adjust the ingredients to your preferences and enjoy the tocino with garlic fried rice and fried eggs.

Happy cooking with these recipes