Bagoong is a paste made using fermented shrimp or fermented fish. It is a staple in many Filipino households. However, for those who did not grow up in a household that constantly has bagoong on hand, you might wonder, is bagoong an appetizer?
Bagoong is not an appetizer. It is made either of krill (tiny shrimp) or fish. When bagoong is made of krill, it is called bagoong alamang, or fermented shrimp paste in English, and when made using fish, it is called bagoong isda, or fermented fish paste in English.
Want to know more about bagoong? Keep reading!
Is Bagoong an Appetizer?
Most people would probably say that bagoong is not an appetizer. After all, it’s a strong-smelling fermented shrimp paste that is often quite salty. However, in many parts of Southeast Asia, bagoong is commonly served as an appetizer or side dish. In the Philippines, for example, bagoong is often served with green mangoes as a refreshing and tangy start to a meal. Served this way, it can be classified as a part of an appetizer.
In Thailand, a similar dish called khrueang kaeng bpoo includes fermented shrimp paste and diced mangoes served in a sweet and sour chili sauce. So while bagoong may not be everyone’s cup of tea, there’s no denying that it can certainly make for an interesting and tasty appetizer.
However, it is important to note that it can definitely be part of an appetizer (and a delicious one at that), it certainly cannot be considered as an appetizer on its own because of the extremely salty taste of the bagoong.
Why is bagoong popular in the Philippines?
Filipino cuisine is known for its flavorful and unique dishes, many of which are based on fermented fish products. One of the most popular of these is bagoong, a pungent paste made from small shrimp or fish. While it may not sound appetizing to everyone, bagoong is an essential ingredient in many Filipino dishes. It can be used as a condiment, added to soups or stews, or simply eaten with rice. In addition to its intense flavor, bagoong is also a good source of protein and other nutrients. For many Filipinos, it is an essential part of their diet.
While bagoong is certainly acquired taste, it is easy to see why it is so popular in the Philippines. For those who enjoy it, there is simply no substitute for its intense flavor and versatility.
By the way, if you are looking for healthy filipino food options, this post has a list of some tasty filipino foods that are also healthy.
What is bagoong alamang used for?
Bagoong alamang is a popular Filipino condiment made from fermented shrimp paste. It is used to add flavor and umami to dishes, as well as a bit of salty sweetness. It is often used as a dipping sauce, an ingredient in marinades, or even as a spread on sandwiches. While it may not be to everyone’s taste, bagoong alamang is a versatile and essential ingredient in many Filipino dishes. So if you’re ever in the Philippines, be sure to give it a try!
Filipino Dishes With Bagoong Alamang
Filipino dishes that use bagoong alamang as one of the main ingredients include kare-kare, binagoongan baboy and binagoongan isda.
Kare kare is a Filipino dish that is usually made with beef or chicken. The meat is cooked in a peanut-based sauce, and the dish is often served with vegetables such as eggplant and bok choy. Kare kare can be served with rice or noodles, and it is often garnished with peanuts or toasted garlic. While the dish is traditionally made with beef or chicken, it can also be made with seafood such as shrimp or squid. Kare kare is a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to please any appetite.
Binagoongan baboy is a Filipino dish that typically consists of pork cooked in shrimp paste. The pork is usually marinated in the shrimp paste prior to cooking, which gives it a strong umami flavor. The dish is often served with rice, and it can also be made into a soup called sinigang. Binagoongan baboy is a popular dish in the Philippines, and it is typically made with pork shoulder or belly. It can also be made with chicken, fish, or tofu. The dish is often spiced with chili peppers, and it is usually served with a side of pickled vegetables.
Binagoongan isda is a Filipino dish made with fish or shrimp that has been fermented in brine and then cooked with spices. The name of the dish comes from the Filipino word for shrimp, bagoong. Binagoongan is typically made with either tilapia or catfish, but other types of fish can also be used. The fish is first marinated in a mixture of salt, water, and vinegar. This helps to tenderize the flesh and remove any excess moisture. The fish is then cooked in oil until it is crispy and golden brown. Finally, it is tossed with a spicy shrimp paste sauce and served with steamed rice. Binagoongan is a flavorful and hearty dish that is sure to delight any seafood lover.
All of these dishes are popular in the Philippines and are often served with rice. Bagoong alamang is a fermented shrimp paste that gives these dishes a unique flavor. It can be found in most Filipino markets and online.
What is bagoong isda used for?
Bagoong isda is a Filipino fish paste made from small, salted fish. It is used as a condiment or flavoring agent in many dishes, and its strong umami flavor pairs well with both cooked and raw foods. Bagoong isda can be used in much the same way as other fish pastes, such as Japanese surimi or Thai nam pla. It is often used to flavor rice, soups, and stews, or as a dipping sauce for vegetables and meats. Because of its intense flavor, a little bagoong isda goes a long way, so it is important to use it sparingly. When stored properly, bagoong will keep for several months.
Filipino Dishes With Bagoong Isda
Filipinos love their bagoong isda. This salty, fermented fish sauce is a staple ingredient in many dishes, such as pinakbet and dinengdeng.
Pinakbet is a popular Filipino dish made with a variety of vegetables. The most common ingredients include squash, eggplant, tomatoes, and green beans. Pinakbet can also be made with pork or shrimp. It is typically seasoned with garlic, ginger, and bagoong isda. Pinakbet is traditionally cooked in an earthenware pot called a palayok. The dish gets its name from the Tagalog word for “mixed” or “stewed.” Pinakbet is usually served over steamed rice. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that is popular among Filipinos of all ages.
Dinengdeng is a delicious and healthy dish from the Philippines. It is made with vegetables, fish, and shrimp, and it is often served with rice. The dish is named for the cooking method, which involves simmering the ingredients in a pot of boiling water. This allows the flavors to meld together and results in a rich and hearty stew. Dinengdeng is typically made with green beans, eggplant, okra, and squash, but other vegetables can be used as well. The shrimp and fish add protein and essential nutrients, making dinengdeng a complete meal. Best of all, it is easy to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
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