Humba

why make this recipe

Humba is a delicious Filipino dish that brings comfort to the table. It features pork belly cooked in a savory and slightly sweet sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, Humba is sure to satisfy everyone. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and goes perfectly with a side of rice.

how to make Humba

Ingredients:

• Pork belly (2 lbs)
• Soy sauce (1/2 cup)
• Vinegar (1/4 cup)
• Brown sugar (1/3 cup)
• Garlic, minced (1 tbsp)
• Bay leaves (3)
• Peppercorns (1 tsp)
• Salted black beans (1/4 cup)
• Water (2 cups)

Directions:

1. Start by marinating the pork belly in soy sauce, vinegar, and minced garlic for at least 1 hour. This step allows the flavors to soak into the meat.
2. In a large pot, place the marinated pork along with the marinade, then add in the water, brown sugar, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salted black beans.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours. This slow cooking will make the pork fork-tender.
4. Once done, serve the Humba hot over a bed of rice.

how to serve Humba

Humba is best served warm. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce. You can garnish with some sliced green onions or fried shallots for an extra touch.

how to store Humba

If you have any leftovers, let the Humba cool to room temperature before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

tips to make Humba

1. For a richer flavor, marinate the pork belly overnight.
2. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste.
3. If you like heat, consider adding some chili peppers to the pot while it simmers.

variation

Some people like to add boiled eggs or potatoes to the dish while it cooks. This adds variety and provides extra texture.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of pork for Humba?
Yes, you can use pork shoulder or pork ribs, but cooking times may vary.

Is Humba spicy?
Traditionally, Humba is not spicy, but you can add chili peppers if you prefer heat.

Can I use fresh beans instead of salted black beans?
Yes, but salted black beans give a distinct flavor that is characteristic of this dish.