Learn how to make Sinigang, a beloved Filipino dish known for its tangy and savory flavors. This sour soup is traditionally made with pork, shrimp, or fish, combined with an assortment of vegetables like tomatoes, string beans, and radish. Flavored with tamarind or other souring agents, Sinigang is a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Here's a basic recipe for Sinigang, a popular Filipino sour soup:

Ingredients:

  -  500g pork ribs, shrimp, or fish fillets

  - 1 onion, quartered

  - 2 tomatoes, quartered

  - 1 radish, peeled and sliced

  -  string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces

  - 2-3 pieces of green chili peppers (optional)

  - 1 packet (about 40g) Sinigang tamarind soup mix

  - Water

  - Fish sauce or salt, to taste

  - Fresh cilantro or spinach leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1- In a large pot, combine the meat or seafood with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer until the meat is tender (about 30-45 minutes for pork ribs, less for shrimp or fish).

2- Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Add more water if needed to maintain the desired level.

3- Add the onion, tomatoes, and radish to the pot. Simmer until the vegetables are tender.

4- Stir in the string beans and chili peppers (if using) and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

5- Add the Sinigang tamarind soup mix according to package instructions. Adjust the sourness and seasoning with fish sauce or salt as needed.

6- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or spinach leaves. Sinigang is typically served with steamed rice on the side.

Note: You can customize Sinigang by using different meats or seafood, or by adding other vegetables like eggplant or okra. Adjust the sourness to your liking by adding more or less tamarind soup mix.

Nutritional Values:

Here's a general overview of the nutritional values for the ingredients used in a basic Sinigang recipe. Keep in mind that actual values can vary based on specific brands, cuts of meat, and preparation methods:

Pork Ribs (500g):

  - Calories: Approximately 1200

  - Protein: Approximately 90g

  - Fat: Approximately 90g

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0g

benefits: Provide protein, iron, and zinc. However, they can also be high in saturated fats, so they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Shrimp (500g):

  - Calories: Approximately 500

  - Protein: Approximately 100g

  - Fat: Approximately 5g

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0g

benefits: Low in calories and fat, high in protein, and a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium. They may support heart health and brain function.

Fish Fillets (500g):

  - Calories: Approximately 500

  - Protein: Approximately 100g

  - Fat: Approximately 10g

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0g

benefits: Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function. They also provide vitamins D and B12.

Onion (1 medium):

  - Calories: Approximately 45

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 11g

benefits: Contains antioxidants and compounds that may reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and support immune function.

Tomatoes (2 medium):

  - Calories: Approximately 40

  - Protein: Approximately 2g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 9g

benefits: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease.

Radish (1 medium):

  - Calories: Approximately 20

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 5g

benefits: Low in calories and a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. They may help improve digestion and support a healthy immune system.

String Beans (100g):

  - Calories: Approximately 30

  - Protein: Approximately 2g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 7g

benefits: High in fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals like potassium and magnesium. They support digestion and may help lower cholesterol levels.

Tamarind Soup Mix (1 packet, about 40g):

  - Calories: Approximately 120

  - Protein: Approximately 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 30g

benefits: Contains tamarind, which is rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. It also provides a tangy flavor to the soup.

These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used.