Easy Bangus Dinengdeng Recipe
I. Introduction
A comforting Ilocano fish stew with vegetables in a savory, slightly bitter broth—perfect with rice. This Easy Bangus Dinengdeng Recipe brings the authentic flavors of this Northern Filipino dish to your table with tender fish and nutrient-rich vegetables in a flavorful broth.
II. Ingredients
- 2 lbs bangus (milkfish), cut into serving pieces
- 1 bunch string beans (sitaw), cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 medium eggplant, cut into wedges
- 1/2 small bitter melon (ampalaya), sliced
- 1 cup okra, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 piece ginger, sliced
- 2 tbsp bagoong isda (fish paste)
- 6 cups water
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
III. Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups
IV. Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic, onions, and ginger until fragrant.
- Add bagoong and cook for 1 minute.
- Add water and bring to a boil.
- Add fish pieces and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add harder vegetables first (eggplant, ampalaya) and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add softer vegetables (string beans, okra) and cook for another 3-5 minutes.
- Season with fish sauce if needed.
- Serve hot with steamed rice.
V. Tips
Add vegetables in order of cooking time; adjust bagoong to taste. The key to good dinengdeng is balancing the flavors—the slight bitterness of the ampalaya should be noticeable but not overwhelming. Don’t overcook the vegetables or they’ll lose their texture and nutrients. You can also add other vegetables like squash or malunggay leaves for variety.
VI. Serving
With steamed rice and a side of bagoong if desired. This nutritious stew is perfect as a complete meal with rice. The combination of fish and vegetables in a savory broth makes it both satisfying and healthful. It’s particularly popular during rainy days when a warm, comforting bowl is needed.
VII. Storage
Keeps 2-3 days; flavors improve over time. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The broth will continue to develop deeper flavors as the ingredients meld together. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
