Pinakbet is a traditional Filipino dish celebrated for its rich and savory flavors, combining a variety of vegetables with a distinctive bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) taste. This vegan version substitutes animal products with umami-rich ingredients, offering a delicious plant-based alternative while maintaining the essence of this classic dish.
Ingredients for 4 Servings:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste (optional, for depth)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup eggplant, diced
- 1 cup bitter melon (ampalaya), sliced (optional, or use bell pepper for a milder flavor)
- 1 cup string beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup squash (calabaza), peeled and diced
- 1 cup okra, sliced
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tofu: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown. Remove tofu from the pan and set aside.
- Cook Aromatics: In the same pan, add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomato and cook until it starts to soften.
- Build the Stew Base: Pour in vegetable broth and water. Stir in soy sauce and miso paste (if using), and bring to a boil.
- Add Vegetables: Add eggplant, bitter melon (or bell pepper), string beans, squash, and okra. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Return Tofu: Add the cooked tofu back into the pan. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Season: Stir in nutritional yeast, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Tip: For an added burst of flavor, try incorporating a splash of tamarind paste or a few dashes of liquid smoke to enhance the savory profile of the dish.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your vegan Pinakbet hot with steamed rice for a complete meal. Rinse rice under cold water and cook according to package instructions or using a rice cooker. To round out the meal, consider pairing it with a simple cucumber salad or a side of steamed greens to complement the hearty, vegetable-packed stew. This dish is perfect for family dinners and offers a wholesome, flavorful experience.