Pork Menudo

Instructions

1. Prepare the meat
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. In the same pot, add the liver cubes and cook until just browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside separately from the pork.
2. Sauté the aromatics
   In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of oil if needed. Sauté the onions until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the bay leaves and stir.
3. Simmer the pork
   Return the browned pork to the pot. Add the tomato sauce, fish sauce, black pepper, and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes or until the pork is nearly tender.
4. Add the vegetables
   Add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Continue to simmer for 15 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften. Add the bell peppers, raisins, and green peas. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Add the liver
   Return the cooked liver to the pot and gently stir to combine with the rest of the ingredients. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, being careful not to overcook the liver as it can become tough.
6. Check seasoning
   Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional fish sauce or black pepper if necessary. The stew should have a rich, savory flavor with a slight tanginess from the tomato sauce.
7. Serve hot
   Remove the bay leaves. Serve the menudo hot with steamed white rice. For an authentic Filipino meal experience, serve with a side of sliced fresh tomatoes or a small dish of fish sauce with calamansi or lemon juice as a dipping sauce.