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December 10, 2024
Patatim is a traditional Filipino dish that is loved by many for its tender and flavorful meat. It is a slow-cooked dish made from pork legs or hocks, simmered in a blend of soy sauce, sugar, spices, and other aromatics. The result is a savory and succulent dish that is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
In this article, we will guide you on how to cook patatim and achieve that melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
“Patatim is often served with steamed rice and enjoyed with a side of pickled vegetables or soy-vinegar dipping sauce. It can be eaten as a main dish or as a viand.”
To start, you will need the following ingredients:
– Pork legs or hocks
– Soy sauce
– Brown sugar
– Star anise
– Garlic cloves
– Peppercorns
– Bay leaves
– Water
Now, let’s get cooking!
Choosing the right ingredients
When it comes to cooking patatim, selecting the right ingredients is key to achieving the authentic and delicious taste. Here are some essential ingredients you will need:
| 1. Pork leg | 2-3 kilograms |
| 2. Soy sauce | 1 cup |
| 3. Pineapple juice | 1 cup |
| 4. Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| 5. Star anise | 3 pieces |
| 6. Garlic | 8 cloves |
| 7. Onions | 2 large |
| 8. Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| 9. Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| 10. Water | enough to cover the pork leg |
These ingredients are easily accessible and can be found in most grocery stores. Make sure to choose a pork leg that is fresh and of good quality. The soy sauce and pineapple juice will help create the rich and tangy flavor of the dish. The brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness, while the star anise, garlic, and onions provide aromatic notes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to enhance the taste. Adjust the water quantity based on the size of your pork leg, ensuring it is enough to fully submerge it during cooking.
What to look for when buying pork
When buying pork, it is important to consider several factors to ensure you get the best quality and flavor. Here are some things to look for:
1. Freshness
Always check the freshness of the pork before making a purchase. Look for meat that is pinkish-red in color, firm to the touch, and has a slight marbling of fat. Avoid meat that appears pale or grayish, as this could indicate spoilage.
2. Cut
Consider the specific cut of pork you are looking for, as different cuts are suitable for different cooking methods. Some popular cuts include pork chops, roasts, and ribs. Choose a cut that best fits your recipe or cooking preference.
3. Source
It is also important to consider the source of the pork. Look for meat that is sourced from reputable suppliers or farms that practice ethical and sustainable farming methods. This ensures that the pork is of good quality and has been raised in a healthy environment.
4. Packaging
Check the packaging of the pork to ensure that it is securely sealed and free from any leaks. This helps to prevent contamination and ensures the freshness of the meat. Also, make sure that the packaging is intact and has not been tampered with.
5. Certification
Look for pork that has been certified by a trusted certification organization, such as the USDA or the British Farm Quality Assurance. This certification ensures that the pork has undergone rigorous inspections and meets certain standards of quality and animal welfare.
By considering these factors when buying pork, you can ensure that you are getting the best quality meat for your cooking needs.
Other essential ingredients
In addition to pork legs, there are several other essential ingredients that you will need to prepare patatim:
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a key ingredient in the marinade for patatim. It adds a savory and umami flavor to the dish. Make sure to use a good-quality soy sauce for the best results.
Star Anise
Star anise is a spice that is commonly used in Chinese cooking. It has a strong and distinct flavor that adds depth to the dish. You will need a few pieces of star anise to enhance the taste of the patatim.
Other ingredients that you may need include garlic, bay leaves, brown sugar, and water. These ingredients are used to make the flavorful braising liquid for the patatim.
Preparing the meat
Before you start cooking patatim, the first step is to prepare the meat properly. Follow these instructions for best results:
1. Clean and wash the pork leg
First, clean the pork leg thoroughly under running water. Remove any excess fat or skin from the meat. Pat the meat dry with a clean towel or paper towels.
2. Marinate the pork leg
Next, prepare the marinade for the pork leg. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and black pepper. You can also add some Chinese cooking wine for additional flavor. Place the pork leg in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the meat is fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and marinate the pork leg in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 6 hours.
3. Cook the meat
After marinating, remove the pork leg from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork leg on all sides until it is browned. This will help seal in the flavors and juices of the meat.
Once the meat is browned, add enough water or broth to cover the pork leg. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the meat simmer for about 2 to 3 hours, or until it becomes tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
At this stage, the meat is ready to be used for patatim. You can proceed to the next steps in the cooking process.
Trimming excess fat
Before cooking the patatim, it is important to trim excess fat from the meat. This will help reduce the greasiness of the dish and make it healthier.
Step 1: Preparation
Start by preparing the ingredients for trimming excess fat. You will need a sharp knife, a cutting board, and the patatim meat.
Step 2: Trimming the fat
Place the patatim meat on the cutting board and examine it for any large chunks of fat. Using the sharp knife, carefully trim away the excess fat, making sure to remove as much as possible without removing too much meat.
Be extra careful when handling the knife and avoid cutting yourself. Take your time and cut the fat in small, manageable portions.
Pro tip: If desired, you can leave a small amount of fat on the meat to add flavor during cooking.
Step 3: Discarding the fat
As you trim the fat, place it in a separate container or bag. Do not discard the fat down the sink as it can clog the pipes. You can either dispose of it with your regular trash or use it for other purposes such as making lard or cooking oil.
Note: It’s important to handle raw meat with caution and practice proper sanitation. After trimming the fat, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, and clean the cutting board and knife properly.
Once you have finished trimming the excess fat from the patatim meat, it is now ready to be cooked according to your chosen recipe.
Marinating the pork
Before cooking the patatim, you need to marinate the pork overnight to ensure that the flavors are fully absorbed. This step is crucial in making the dish more flavorful and tender.
Here is a simple marinade recipe:
| Ingredients: | Amount: |
|---|---|
| Pork leg | 1 kilogram |
| Soy sauce | 1 cup |
| Pineapple juice | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Onion, chopped | 1 piece |
| Peppercorns | 1 tablespoon |
| Bay leaves | 3 pieces |
To marinate the pork, follow these steps:
- Cut the pork leg into serving pieces and place it in a large container.
- In a separate bowl, combine the soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped onion, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Mix well.
- Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure that each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the container with cling wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight.
The longer you marinate the pork, the better the flavors will infuse into the meat. Remember to turn the pork occasionally to distribute the marinade evenly.
Cooking the Patatim
Patatim is a Filipino dish made from braised pork leg simmered in soy sauce, sugar, and spices. It is a popular dish often served during special occasions and gatherings. If you want to learn how to cook patatim, follow the steps below:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
| – 2 kg pork leg | 1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. |
| – 1 cup soy sauce | 2. Add the pork leg and boil for 5 minutes. |
| – 1 cup brown sugar | 3. Drain the water and set aside the pork leg. |
| Р1 head garlic, minced | 4. In the same pot, heat oil and saut̩ garlic until golden brown. |
| – 1 onion, chopped | 5. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. |
| – 5 cups water | 6. Pour soy sauce, sugar, and water into the pot. |
| – 2 tablespoons vinegar | 7. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a simmer. |
| – 2 bay leaves | 8. Add bay leaves, peppercorns, and pork leg into the pot. |
| – 1 teaspoon peppercorns | 9. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours or until the pork leg is tender. |
| – Salt and pepper to taste | 10. Season with salt and pepper to taste. |
| – Green onions, chopped (for garnish) | 11. Once the pork leg is tender, remove it from the pot and transfer to a serving dish. |
| 12. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. |
Now you know how to cook delicious patatim. Enjoy this traditional Filipino dish with steamed rice and your favorite side dishes!
FAQ
What is patatim?
Patatim is a Filipino dish made with braised pork leg or hock in a rich soy-based sauce. It is traditionally cooked until the pork is tender and the sauce is thick and sticky.
What are the ingredients needed for cooking patatim?
The main ingredients for cooking patatim are pork leg or hock, soy sauce, sugar, star anise, garlic, and water. Other optional ingredients include rice wine or vinegar, black beans, and vegetables such as bok choy or cabbage.
How long does it take to cook patatim?
Cooking patatim usually takes about 2 to 3 hours. This is because the pork leg needs to be braised until it becomes tender and the sauce thickens. However, the exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and quality of the pork leg.
Can I use other meat instead of pork leg for patatim?
Yes, you can use other meat cuts such as pork shoulder or pork belly. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the meat you choose. Pork leg is commonly used for patatim because it has more collagen, which gives the dish a gelatinous texture.
Can I cook patatim in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook patatim in a slow cooker. Simply follow the same steps of marinating the pork leg and then transfer it along with the marinade into the slow cooker. Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or until the pork is tender. It’s a convenient way to cook patatim if you prefer a hands-off cooking method.
What is patatim?
Patatim is a Filipino dish made from braised pork leg or hock in a delicious mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and spices.