Pinakbet (Mixed Vegetable Stew)

Ingredients:

• 200 g pork belly, sliced into small pieces
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 small bitter melon (ampalaya), sliced
• 1 small eggplant, sliced
• 1 small squash (kalabasa), cubed
• 1 cup string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup okra, sliced
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons shrimp paste (bagoong)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Procedure:

1. Heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté the garlic, onion, and tomatoes until the onion becomes translucent and the tomatoes are soft.
3. Add the pork belly and cook until it is lightly browned.
4. Stir in the shrimp paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the pork is tender.
6. Add the squash and cook for 5 minutes.
7. Add the eggplant, bitter melon, string beans, and okra. Cook for another 10-15 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Nutrition Facts:

• Energy: 300 Kcal
• Total Carbs: 20 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Omega 3: 0.3 g
• Fibers: 5 g
• Sodium: 800 mg

The nutritionist's advice: Pinakbet is a traditional Filipino vegetable stew that is both nutritious and delicious. It is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the variety of vegetables used. The addition of shrimp paste enhances the flavor but be mindful of its sodium content. This dish is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, making it a healthy and balanced meal.