Authentic Bicol Express: A Spicy Pork Delight in Coconut Milk

🍲 Bikol Express (Filipino Spicy Pork in Coconut Milk)

🌴 A Taste of Home: My Family’s Bikol Express

Growing up in a Filipino household, Bikol Express was one of those dishes that filled the kitchen with warmth, spice, and comfort. The rich coconut milk simmering with tender pork and chili always reminded me of family gatherings, laughter, and rice piled high on our plates.

This dish comes from the Bicol region, known for its love of coconut and spicy food. It’s creamy, bold, and deeply satisfying — perfect for anyone craving authentic Filipino flavors.

⏱️ Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb pork belly, sliced into small cubes
• 1 cup coconut milk (gata)
• 1 cup coconut cream
• 2 tablespoons shrimp paste (bagoong alamang)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 5–8 Thai chili peppers (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

📝 Ingredient Notes

• Pork Belly: Best for rich flavor, but you can use pork shoulder for a leaner option
• Shrimp Paste: Adds authentic umami — sauté it for deeper flavor
• Chili Peppers: Adjust depending on spice tolerance
• Coconut Milk vs Cream: Milk for simmering, cream for thick finish

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté garlic and onions until fragrant.
3. Add pork and cook until lightly browned.
4. Stir in shrimp paste and cook for 2–3 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Add chili peppers and cook for 20 minutes.
7. Add coconut cream and simmer until sauce thickens.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot with steamed rice.

💡 Tips for Best Results

• Do not stir too much after adding coconut milk (prevents curdling)
• Let oil rise to the top for authentic texture
• Use fresh chili for better flavor

🔄 Substitutions

• Pork → Chicken or tofu
• Shrimp paste → Fish sauce (milder taste)
• Coconut cream → Heavy cream (less authentic but works)

🌶️ Variations

• Extra spicy version with more chili
• Add green beans for texture
• Make it keto-friendly (already low-carb!)

🥡 Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Reheat gently to avoid separating sauce
• Can be frozen up to 1 month

🥗 Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbs: 6g

❓ FAQs

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes! Reduce chili or remove seeds.

Can I use canned coconut milk?

Absolutely — very common and convenient.

Why is my sauce curdling?

Heat may be too high — keep it at a gentle simmer.

🖨️ Printable Recipe Card

Bikol Express

Prep: 15 mins

Cook: 35 mins

Total: 50 mins

Ingredients:

• Pork belly
• Coconut milk
• Shrimp paste
• Garlic, onion, chili

Instructions:

1. Sauté aromatics
2. Cook pork
3. Add coconut milk
4. Simmer + finish with cream