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Bicol Express
Put the pork in a wide heavy pot with the oil over medium heat and cook, stirring now and then, for 10 to 12 minutes until the fat runs and the edges start to brown.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Bicol Express take?
1 hr 30 min all in — 15 min prep, 1 hr 15 min cook. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 4 people. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Easy.
How spicy is it?
Hot.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Shellfish. Labels are informational — check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Dairy-free, Gluten-free.
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What does it cost to cook?
Weeknight budget — about $8–16 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Dutch oven, Chef's knife.
How much salt do I put in?
This recipe does not list a salt amount. We will not invent one.
What can I use instead?
Pork → Peeled prawns. Reduce the coconut milk alone for 25 minutes first, then add the prawns with the chillies and cook only 4 to 5 minutes.
Any tips from this recipe?
Seed the long chillies for flavour with less heat. The bird's-eye chillies set the real heat, so add them a few at a time. Shoulder alone is leaner but needs about 15 minutes longer to soften. It is better the next day, once the chilli has settled into the oil.
Can I prepare this ahead?
It is better the next day, once the chilli has settled into the oil.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.