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Laing

Fry the pork in the oil in a wide heavy pot over medium heat for about 8 minutes, until the fat runs and the edges brown. Add the garlic, onion and ginger and cook 3 minutes, then the shrimp paste for 2 minutes more.

Questions about this dish

Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.

How long does Laing take?

1 hr 30 min all in — 10 min prep, 1 hr 20 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?

Medium heat.

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?

Dried taro leaves → Fresh taro leaves, about 500 g, shredded and dried for a few hours in a low oven. Fresh leaves need longer, at least 45 minutes before stirring. Spinach or kale never itch but make a lighter, different dish.

What should I watch for?

Undercooked taro leaves make the mouth and throat itch. Keep them in the milk, leave them alone until soft, and do not rush this stage.

Any tips from this recipe?

Wear gloves if you ever handle fresh taro leaves. The sap itches skin too. Buy packets where the leaves look whole and grey-green. Brown, dusty leaves are old. For the Lenten version, swap the pork for 100 g of flaked smoked fish such as tinapa, added with the chillies.

Can I use an air fryer?

This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.

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