Deliciously Comforting Filipino Pork Afritada Recipe

🍲 Filipino Pork Afritada (Classic Comfort Recipe)

🕒 Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4–6

❤️ A Warm Filipino Kitchen Story

There’s something deeply comforting about a pot of Pork Afritada simmering on the stove. Growing up in a Filipino home, this dish was always part of family gatherings, birthdays, or even simple Sunday lunches.

The rich tomato sauce, tender pork, and colorful vegetables create a meal that feels like home in every bite. It’s simple, hearty, and made with love — the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table.

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 ½ cups water or broth
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: green peas or hotdogs

🧾 Ingredient Notes

• Pork shoulder is best because it becomes tender when simmered
• Tomato sauce + paste gives a richer flavor
• Bell peppers add sweetness and color
• Soy sauce adds a subtle umami Filipino touch

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat oil in a pot. Add garlic and onion. Cook until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Pork

Add pork and cook until lightly browned on all sides.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in tomato sauce, tomato paste, soy sauce, and water. Stir well.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover and simmer for 30 minutes until pork is tender.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Add potatoes and carrots. Cook for 10–15 minutes.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Add bell peppers and cook for 5 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with steamed white rice.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve Pork Afritada with:

• Steamed white rice
• Garlic fried rice
• Banana ketchup on the side

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 4 days
• Freezer: Up to 2 months
• Reheat gently on stove or microwave

🔄 Substitutions

• Chicken instead of pork (Chicken Afritada)
• Add hotdogs for a party-style version
• Use beef for a richer taste

🥗 Nutrition Notes

• High in protein from pork
• Contains vitamins from vegetables
• Can be made healthier by reducing oil

❓ FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day.

Why is my sauce too thin?

Simmer longer to reduce the liquid.

Can I use canned vegetables?

Fresh is best, but canned works in a pinch.

💡 Cooking Tips

• Don’t rush simmering — this makes pork tender
• Cut vegetables evenly
• Add peppers last to keep them crisp

🌶️ Variations

• Spicy Afritada (add chili flakes)
• Creamy Afritada (add a bit of cream)
• Sweet-style (add a little sugar)

🖨️ Printable Recipe Card

Filipino Pork Afritada

• Prep: 15 mins
• Cook: 45 mins
• Total: 1 hour

Instructions:

1. Sauté garlic and onion
2. Brown pork
3. Add sauce ingredients in
4. Simmer
5. Add vegetables
6. Finish and serve