If you’ve already tried my Pork Neck Bone Sinigang, then you know sinigang is a regular thing in our house. But this version? This one is my fiancé’s all-time favorite. Ever since trying sinigang made with pork belly, this is the only one he asks for. The fat from the pork belly slowly cooks into the broth, making it richer and so much more flavorful. It still has that classic sour taste we love, but the broth just feels deeper and more satisfying.
What is Sinigang?
Sinigang is a traditional Filipino soup known for its signature sour broth. It originated in the Philippines and is considered one of the country’s most beloved comfort foods. The word sinigang comes from the Tagalog verb “sigang,” which means to stew.
Traditionally, sinigang was made using natural souring agents like tamarind, calamansi, green mango, kamias, or guava. Over time, tamarind became the most common base, giving sinigang that mouth-scrunching sourness that keeps you going back for more.
There are many variations of sinigang depending on the protein and region. Some of the most common types include:
Pork Sinigang (Sinigang na Baboy)
Shrimp Sinigang (Sinigang na Hipon)
Fish Sinigang (Sinigang na Isda)
Beef Sinigang
Chicken Sinigang
If you’re looking for something a little lighter, you have to try my Chicken Tinola. It’s another comforting Filipino soup that’s simple and so good. And if you prefer a less fatty cut of pork, check out my Pork Neck Bone Sinigang. That one is just as comforting and a little lighter in texture.
Pork Belly Sinigang Ingredients
- 3 lbs Pork Belly, chopped: This is what makes this version so rich. As it cooks, the fat melts into the broth and gives it so much flavor.
- 1 pack Knorr Tamarind Soup Mix: This gives you that consistent sour flavor that tastes just like home.
- Taro Root (Gabi): Thickens the broth slightly and adds that soft, starchy texture.
- Veggies: Roma tomatoes, white onion, okra, eggplant, bok choy, and a handful of fresh green beans.
- Thai Red Chili: Optional if you want a little heat.
- Water, Salt, & Pepper.
- Oil (optional): for searing the pork.
- Other necessities: pressure cooker or large pot, and rice.
How to Make Pork Belly Sinigang in a Pressure Cooker
Using the sauté function on your pressure cooker, sear the pork belly with salt and pepper until lightly browned.
Add one chopped tomato, the sliced onion, and the taro root directly into the pot. Pour in enough water to fully cover the pork. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 30 minutes. Allow a natural release once the cooking time is done. The pork belly should be tender at this point.
Add the remaining vegetables along with the Knorr Tamarind Soup Mix. I sometimes use two packets if I want it extra sour. Stir everything together, seal the lid again, and pressure cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Release the pressure, then taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Cook until the vegetables reach your desired texture. My fiancé and I like our vegetables soft, but if you prefer yours a little more firm, you can reduce that second pressure cook time slightly.
Pork Belly Sinigang on Stovetop
Start by searing the pork belly in a large pot over medium heat with salt and pepper until lightly browned. Add one chopped tomato, the sliced onion, and the taro root. Pour in enough water to fully cover the pork and bring everything to a boil. As it cooks, skim off any foam that rises to the top. Once boiling, keep the heat at medium and let the pork simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. The exact cooking time will depend on how thick your pork belly pieces are. When the pork is soft, add the remaining vegetables along with the Knorr Tamarind Soup Mix (use two packets if you want it extra sour). Continue cooking over medium heat until the vegetables reach your desired texture. My fiancé and I like our vegetables soft, but if you prefer yours a little more firm, just cut the cooking time slightly.
In case you’re wondering, I found this super cute pumpkin-shaped cast iron dutch oven on Amazon! Sharing the direct link here: Pumpkin Cocotte Dutch Oven Pot
Other Filipino Comfort Foods You Have to Try
If you loved this Pork Belly Sinigang, here are a few more Filipino comfort foods on my blog that you need to add to your list:
- Pork Sinigang – My classic neckbone version with that same sour, comforting broth.
- Chicken Tinola – A lighter, soothing ginger-based soup that’s perfect when you want something simple and cozy.
- Turon – Crispy, caramelized banana spring rolls that are sweet, crunchy, and so good.
- Baked Pompano – Stuffed with tomato, onion, and ginger and baked until tender. Simple but so flavorful.
- Sizzling Sisig – Crispy, savory, and served on a sizzling plate.
Pork Belly Sinigang
Description
This Pork Belly Sinigang is a rich, comforting Filipino soup made with tender pork belly, fresh vegetables, and a bold tamarind broth. Perfect with steamed rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
Instructions (Pressure Cooker Method)
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Using the sauté function, sear the pork belly with salt and pepper until lightly browned.
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Add one chopped tomato, sliced onion, and taro root to the pot.
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Pour in enough water to fully cover the pork. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 30 minutes. Allow natural release.
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Add remaining vegetables and the Knorr Tamarind Soup Mix.
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Seal again and pressure cook for an additional 10 minutes.
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Release pressure, taste, and adjust seasoning.
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Cook until vegetables reach your desired texture. Serve hot with rice.
Instructions (Stovetop Method)
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Sear pork belly over medium heat with salt and pepper until browned.
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Add one chopped tomato, onion, and taro root.
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Pour in enough water to cover and bring to a boil. Skim foam.
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Reduce to medium heat and simmer 45-60 minutes until pork is tender.
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Add remaining vegetables and tamarind soup mix.
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Cook over medium heat until vegetables reach your desired texture.
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Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with rice.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 45g70%
- Sodium 1250mg53%
- Total Carbohydrate 18g6%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
