Join us for a delightful cooking adventure as we prepare a quick and easy dinner featuring sweet and sour fish paired with …
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Quick and Easy Dinner: Sweet and Sour with Sinugba
When it comes to dinner, finding a balance between delicious and easy-to-cook meals can be a challenge. Enter the perfect fusion of flavors: Sweet and Sour with Sinugba. This dish not only offers a delightful taste but also requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup vinegar (rice or white)
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
For Sinugba (Grilled Meat):
- 500g pork belly or chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon calamansi juice (or lemon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Added Flavor:
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 onion, sliced
- Fresh basil or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sinugba
Marinate the Meat: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, calamansi juice, salt, and pepper. Add the pork belly or chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer if time allows).
- Grill the Meat: Preheat your grill or pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated meat for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and slightly charred. This adds a beautiful smoky flavor reminiscent of traditional Philippine sinugba.
Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, mix the pineapple juice, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Thicken the Sauce: Once it starts to bubble, add the cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. It should be glossy and syrupy.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in the onions, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the veggies are tender yet crisp.
Step 3: Serve
- Plate the Sinugba: Slice the grilled meat and place it on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Generously pour the sweet and sour sauce over the sinugba.
- Garnish: Add fresh basil or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Tips for a Perfect Dinner
- Prep Ahead: Marinate the meat earlier in the day or even the night before to enhance flavor.
- Veggie Options: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with steamed rice to soak up the delightful sauce, making it a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Sweet and Sour with Sinugba dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also brings a delightful explosion of flavors to your dinner table. Perfect for families or a casual gathering, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy your dinner without the hassle!
