Delicious Filipino Embotido: A Steamed Meatloaf Recipe

Learn how to make classic Filipino embotido — a savory steamed pork meatloaf filled with eggs, vegetables, and sweet flavors. Perfect for holidays and family gatherings!

🌺STORY 

There’s something so comforting about Filipino embotido. Growing up, this was always a special dish we had during holidays, birthdays, and family gatherings. I remember watching it being carefully rolled, wrapped, and steamed — the smell alone filled the whole kitchen with warmth.

What I love most about embotido is how simple ingredients come together to create something so flavorful and satisfying. Whether served hot or fried the next day, it’s one of those dishes that always feels like home.

If you’ve never made embotido before, don’t worry — I’ll walk you through every step so you can make it perfectly every time.

⏱ RECIPE DETAILS

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Cuisine: Filipino

🛒 INGREDIENTS

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup carrots, finely diced
• 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Fillings:

• 3 hard-boiled eggs (sliced)
• Hotdogs or sausage (optional)

📝 INGREDIENT NOTES 

• Ground pork: Use 80/20 for best flavor and moisture
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind and soften the texture
• Raisins: Adds signature Filipino sweetness
• Pickle relish: Gives a slight tang that balances the meat

👩‍🍳 STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, carrots, raisins, relish, milk, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Embotido

Lay aluminum foil flat. Spread the mixture evenly, then place sliced eggs and hotdogs in the center.

Step 3: Roll and Wrap

Carefully roll into a log shape and wrap tightly in foil.

Step 4: Steam

Steam for 1 hour over medium heat.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let it cool slightly before slicing.

Step 6: Optional Fry

Pan-fry slices for a crispy exterior.

🍽 SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Serve with:

• Steamed white rice
• Banana ketchup
• Garlic fried rice for breakfast

🧊 STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
• Freezer: Up to 2 months
• Reheat: Pan-fry or microwave

🔄 SUBSTITUTIONS

• Ground chicken instead of pork
• Skip raisins if preferred
• Use quail eggs for smaller portions

🥗 NUTRITION NOTES

• High in protein
• Can be made lower fat using lean meat
• Add more vegetables for a healthier version

❓ FAQ

Q: Can I bake embotido instead of steaming?

Yes, bake at 350°F for about 1 hour.

Q: Why is my embotido dry?

Too much breadcrumbs or overcooking.

Q: Can I make it ahead?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep.

💡 TIPS FOR SUCCESS

• Don’t overmix (keeps it tender)
• Wrap tightly to hold shape
• Let it rest before slicing

🌈 VARIATIONS

• Cheesy embotido
• Spicy version with chili
• Chicken embotido