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Filipino Pork Mechado

Tender pork shoulder braised in a rich, tangy sauce of soy, vinegar, and garlic until fall-apart tender. A beloved Filipino comfort dish that tastes even better the next day.

Total time
75 min
Servings
4
Calories
520
Protein
48g
Filipino Pork Mechado
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Ingredients

  • 2 lb pork shoulder, boneless
  • 8 cloves garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup vinegar (white or calamansi)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
  • 1 large potato, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 2 leaves bay leaves
  • 1 to taste salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cut pork shoulder into 2-inch chunks, trimming excess fat as you go.

  2. 2

    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high until shimmering, about 90 seconds.

  3. 3

    Working in batches, sear pork chunks 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Don't overcrowd the pot.

  4. 4

    Return all pork to the pot. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 60 seconds.

  5. 5

    Pour in soy sauce and vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add bay leaves.

  6. 6

    Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes until pork is very tender.

  7. 7

    Add carrots and potato. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.

  8. 8

    Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Tools you’ll need

  • large pot with lid (5-quart or larger)
  • cutting board
  • chef's knife
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • wooden spoon

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