Dinengdeng facts for kids
Dinengdeng consisting of calabaza squash, shoots and blossoms, and grilled fish.
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| Alternative names | Inabraw |
|---|---|
| Course | Main course |
| Place of origin | Philippines |
| Associated national cuisine | Filipino cuisine |
| Serving temperature | Hot |
| Main ingredients | Bagoong, vegetables, fish, meat |
| Similar dishes | Pinakbet |
Dinengdeng, also known as inabraw, is a popular and healthy soup dish from the Ilocano people in the Philippines. It's a bit like another Filipino dish called pinakbet, but Dinengdeng usually has fewer vegetables. This tasty soup gets its unique flavor from a special salty fish sauce called bagoong monamon. It often includes squash, making it a favorite for many!
What Makes Dinengdeng Special?
Dinengdeng is known for being a simple yet delicious meal. It's often made with fresh vegetables and a flavorful broth. The main difference from pinakbet is that Dinengdeng uses more of the bagoong monamon fish sauce. This gives it a distinct salty and savory taste.
Key Ingredients in Dinengdeng
The heart of Dinengdeng is its mix of fresh vegetables. People often use what's available and in season.
Some common vegetables you might find in Dinengdeng include:
- Squash and its blossoms
- Jute leaves (called saluyot)
- Moringa leaves and pods (also known as marunggay)
- Bitter melon (called parya)
- Amaranth leaves (called kalunay)
- Sweet potato tubers and leaves
- Different types of gourds, like kabatiti (a type of Luffa)
- String beans and their shoots
- Chili peppers for a little spice
- Banana blossoms (called sabunganay)
- Corn
- Eggplant
- Okra
- Various mushrooms, like oyster mushrooms
- Taro
- Cassava tubers
- Purple yams
Sometimes, people also add cooked fish or other meats to the soup. These are often leftovers from other meals, making Dinengdeng a great way to use up ingredients and avoid waste. The added fish or meat gives the soup an even richer flavor.
A Healthy and Traditional Dish
Dinengdeng is more than just a meal; it's a part of the Ilocano culture. It's a healthy dish because it's packed with fresh vegetables. It shows how Filipino cuisine often uses simple, local ingredients to create delicious and nourishing food. This soup is usually served hot, perfect for any time of the day.
