There’s something truly special about a steaming bowl of stew that brings family and friends together, and for me, that warmth is embodied in Pocherong Manok. This delightful Filipino chicken stew is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace made from tender chicken simmered in a savory, tomato-based broth, enriched with the unexpected sweetness of saba bananas. As the aromatic scents fill your kitchen, you’ll find that each ingredient crunchy vegetables, hearty potatoes, and a touch of smoky chorizo creates a beautiful medley that’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy Sunday at home.
I discovered this recipe during a rainy afternoon, searching for something to lift my spirits, and it quickly became a family favorite. Whether you’re tired of your usual weeknight dinners or simply seeking to add a cultural twist to your table, Pocherong Manok is a delightful solution. As you dig in, each spoonful is a reminder of the joys of home-cooked meals, making every bite feel like a warm hug. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe that’s bound to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!
Why is Pocherong Manok a must-try?
Comforting and Flavorful: This dish is the perfect representation of Filipino comfort food, blending the rich flavors of tender chicken and savory tomato broth.
Unique Sweetness: The addition of saba bananas introduces an unexpected sweet twist, elevating your standard stew to something extraordinary.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can reignite their passion for home cooking while impressing family and friends.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or legumes, making it a flexible recipe for any season.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners, Pocherong Manok is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Discover how this delightful stew can transform your mealtime into a cozy, heartwarming experience!
Pocherong Manok Ingredients
For the Stew
- Chicken (2 lbs, cut into serving pieces) – This is the main protein and flavor base for your delicious stew.
- Maggi Magic Chicken Cube (1 piece) – Enhances the broth with umami goodness for a richer taste.
- Saba bananas (3 pieces, sliced diagonally) – Adds natural sweetness and creamy texture; Tip: Use bananas that are yellow with a few black freckles for the best results.
- Potatoes (2 pieces, cubed) – Provides body and helps thicken the broth; Prep Note: Soak in water for 10 minutes before frying to ensure crispiness.
- Canned chickpeas (14 oz) – Offers protein and a nutty texture; for dried ones, soak and boil ahead for use.
- Long green beans (15 pieces) – Introduces a delightful crunch and freshness to the stew.
- Cabbage (½ head, quartered) – Contributes a mild flavor and adds bulk to the dish.
- Bok choy (1 bunch) – Adds a leafy texture and subtle bitterness that complements the stew.
- Yellow onion (1 piece, chopped) – Builds the essential flavor base for the stew’s savory profile.
- Garlic (5 cloves, chopped) – Enhances the aroma and savory notes of the dish.
- Tomatoes (2 pieces, wedged) – Forms the acidic backbone of the rich tomato sauce.
- Chorizo de Bilbao (2 pieces, sliced) – Infuses a smoky, meaty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Tomato paste (3 tablespoons) – Intensifies the tomato profile and thickens the broth; Note: Use paste instead of sauce for more depth.
- Water (2 cups) – The base liquid needed to simmer and meld the wonderful flavors.
- Cooking oil (1 cup) – Used for frying and sautéing your ingredients to perfection.
- Fish sauce and ground black pepper – Season to taste for a delightful balance of flavors.
How to Make Pocherong Manok
- Prep Ingredients: Start by frying the sliced saba bananas and cubed potatoes in cooking oil until golden brown. This adds sweetness and crispiness to your stew. Set them aside for later.
- Sauté Chicken: In the same wok, pan-fry the chicken pieces for about 2 minutes on each side. This will help develop a lovely color and flavor. After, remove the chicken from the wok to keep it moist.
- Build Flavor Base: Sauté the chopped onion in the remaining oil until translucent, then add garlic and wedged tomatoes, cooking until aromatic. This aromatic blend will form the foundations of your stew.
- Combine: Stir in the sliced chorizo and return the chicken to the wok. Cook everything together for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Create Broth: Mix in the tomato paste, add the water, and incorporate the Maggi cube. Bring everything to a boil to create a rich base for your stew.
- Add Ingredients: Gently stir in the chickpeas, fried potatoes, and sliced bananas into the pot, cooking for another 2 minutes to ensure even heating of all ingredients.
- Add Vegetables: Now, toss in the long green beans and quartered cabbage, cover the wok, and let them cook for 3 minutes. This ensures they stay vibrant and tender.
- Finish Dish: Season to taste with fish sauce and ground black pepper. Finally, add bok choy and let the residual heat wilt it for about 2 minutes before serving this comforting stew.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pocherong Manok
- Fridge: Store leftover Pocherong Manok in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier!
- Freezer: You can freeze this chicken stew for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Pocherong Manok overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to bring back the broth’s consistency.
- Make-Ahead Tips: This dish can be prepared a day in advance for family gatherings. Store in the fridge, and wait to heat it just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What to Serve with Pocherong Manok?
Cozy up your meal with these delightful pairings that complement the rich flavors of this Filipino chicken stew.
- Steamed White Rice: The perfect base to soak up the savory broth and balance the stew’s intensity.
- Atchara (Pickled Papaya): This refreshing side adds a zesty crunch, providing a delightful contrast to the warm stew.
- Garlic Fried Rice: The aromatic garlic complements the chicken’s flavors, enhancing the comforting experience of the meal.
- Sautéed Mixed Vegetables: A vibrant medley of seasonal veggies adds a pop of color and extra nutrition, elevating the dish further.
- Fried Plantains: Crispy on the outside and sweet inside, they mirror the flavor of saba bananas while adding another layer of sweetness.
- Coconut Milk Drink: A creamy beverage that cools the palate while pairing beautifully with the stew’s savory notes.
- Banana Spring Rolls: A sweet finish to the meal, these treats echo the banana element from the stew, making for a cohesive dining experience.
- Filipino Leche Flan: This rich, caramel custard dessert provides a sweet and smooth ending that pairs perfectly with the hearty stew.
Expert Tips for Pocherong Manok
- Perfect Potatoes: Soak cubed potatoes for 10 minutes in water before frying. This ensures they are crispy and prevents excessive oil splatter.
- Banana Bliss: Opt for ripe saba bananas with a few black spots for the sweetest flavor. You can freeze them beforehand for an even creamier texture.
- Tomato Paste Priority: Always use tomato paste instead of sauce. It deepens the flavor while thickening the broth, preventing it from becoming watery.
- Vegetable Timing: Add your green beans and cabbage towards the end of cooking to keep them slightly firm. This helps maintain their crunch and vibrant color.
- Flavor Balance: Taste and adjust seasoning with fish sauce and ground black pepper as you go. Remember, a little goes a long way in enhancing the overall depth of this Pocherong Manok.
Pocherong Manok Variations
Customize your Pocherong Manok with these exciting twists to elevate this beloved stew!
- Dairy-Free: Skip the Maggi cube and use vegetable broth for a equally rich yet dairy-free option.
Feel free to experiment with flavors! Just ensure you season to taste with additional herbs or spices. - Spicy Kick: Add sliced chili peppers during the sautéing step for a delightful burst of heat.
This small addition can transform the dish into a spicy sensation, perfect for those who love a little extra warmth. - Green Goodness: Swap out bok choy for spinach or kale for an even healthier green addition.
These leafy greens wilt beautifully and contribute a fresh pop of color and nutrients to your stew. - Chickpea Alternatives: Substitute canned chickpeas with cooked lentils for a change in texture and flavor.
Lentils cook faster and bring a delightful nuttiness, making this option a healthier twist. - Root Vegetable Upgrade: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes to add sweetness and a vibrant color.
This swap not only enhances the dish’s nutritional value but also gives it a new dimension of flavor. - Flavorful Stocks: Enhance the broth by using chicken stock instead of water for a more robust taste.
A rich stock adds depth and character, turning your stew into a gourmet experience! - Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fragrant finishing touch.
Adding fresh herbs brightens the dish, making each spoonful burst with freshness and flavor. - Protein Exchange: Replace chicken with beef or pork for a different take on this comforting stew.
Both meats will lend their own unique flavors, creating a hearty variant that family and friends will love.
Make Ahead Options
These Pocherong Manok preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop and refrigerate vegetables like cabbage, bok choy, and green beans up to 3 days in advance, keeping them fresh in an airtight container. Additionally, fry the saba bananas and potatoes ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours; this helps retain their texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply sauté the chicken and assemble the stew—just as delicious and comforting as when freshly made. This way, you can savor a warm, hearty meal with minimal effort, turning busy weeknights into cozy culinary experiences!
Pocherong Manok Recipe FAQs
What type of saba bananas should I use for Pocherong Manok?
Absolutely! For the best results in Pocherong Manok, look for saba bananas that are yellow with a few black freckles. These ripe bananas are sweeter and have a softer texture, which perfectly complements the savory flavors of the stew.
How long can I store leftover Pocherong Manok?
You can store leftover Pocherong Manok in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you let it sit for a day, you’ll find that the flavors deepen, making it even tastier when reheated!
Can I freeze Pocherong Manok, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze Pocherong Manok for up to 3 months. Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Label the containers so you can enjoy this hearty dish later!
What are some common issues with Pocherong Manok and how can I fix them?
If your stew turns out watery, it may be due to using too much water or not letting it simmer long enough. To fix this, let it cook uncovered for a bit to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, thickening the broth. If you find the flavors lacking, adjust your seasoning with additional fish sauce or black pepper to enhance the depth.
Is Pocherong Manok safe for dogs or other pets?
While Pocherong Manok is delicious for humans, it contains ingredients like garlic and onions that can be harmful to pets, especially dogs. It’s best to keep this dish as a special treat just for you and your family! Always consider your pet’s dietary restrictions and consult with your vet if unsure.
Cozy Up with Pocherong Manok: Filipino Chicken Stew Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by frying the sliced saba bananas and cubed potatoes in cooking oil until golden brown. This adds sweetness and crispiness to your stew. Set them aside for later.
- In the same wok, pan-fry the chicken pieces for about 2 minutes on each side. This will help develop a lovely color and flavor. After, remove the chicken from the wok to keep it moist.
- Sauté the chopped onion in the remaining oil until translucent, then add garlic and wedged tomatoes, cooking until aromatic.
- Stir in the sliced chorizo and return the chicken to the wok. Cook everything together for an additional 2 minutes.
- Mix in the tomato paste, add the water, and incorporate the Maggi cube. Bring everything to a boil.
- Gently stir in the chickpeas, fried potatoes, and sliced bananas into the pot, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Toss in the long green beans and quartered cabbage, cover the wok, and let them cook for 3 minutes.
- Season to taste with fish sauce and ground black pepper. Finally, add bok choy and let the residual heat wilt it for about 2 minutes before serving.