Pork Humba Recipe (Sweet and Savory Filipino Braised Pork)

Pork Humba is a rich and flavorful Filipino dish popular in the Visayas region. It features tender pork belly slowly braised in soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

📝 Ingredients

• 1 kilo pork belly, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup pineapple juice (optional)
• 1/2 cup banana blossoms (optional)
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 cup water (or more as needed)

🍲 Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pot and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
2. Add pork belly and cook until lightly browned.
3. Pour in soy sauce, vinegar, pineapple juice, and water.
4. Add bay leaves and peppercorns. Do not stir immediately after adding vinegar.
5. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for 40–60 minutes until pork becomes tender.
6. Add brown sugar and banana blossoms (if using).
7. Continue simmering until sauce thickens.
8. Adjust sweetness or saltiness according to taste before serving.

💡 Cooking Tips

• Slow cooking enhances the flavor and tenderness of the pork.
• You can add hard-boiled eggs for a richer version.
• Let the dish rest before serving to allow flavors to deepen.

🍽️ Final Thoughts

Pork Humba is a comforting Filipino dish that brings together sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors. Perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or whenever you crave a rich pork dish.