Filipino Pinakbet

Pinakbet is a savory Filipino vegetable stew originating from the Ilocos region, featuring a medley of vegetables like squash, eggplant, okra, bitter melon, and string beans, often cooked with shrimp paste and pork or seafood. It is a staple in Filipino households, celebrated for its rich, umami flavor profile and hearty, comforting nature.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Pinakbet is generally balanced, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates from squash and fiber-rich vegetables, and protein from shrimp paste or meat. A typical serving provides key nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron, with a rough calorie range of 150-250 calories per serving depending on ingredients.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	220 kcal
Protein	12 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	12 g
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	6 g
Sodium	850 mg
Vitamin A	450 mcg
Vitamin C	35 mg
Vitamin K	40 mcg
Potassium	500 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Calcium	80 mg
Magnesium	45 mg
Phosphorus	150 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Pinakbet reflects the Filipino value of resourcefulness, as it can be adapted with whatever vegetables are available, making it a versatile and economical dish. Nutritionally, its use of bitter melon adds a unique, slightly bitter note that is believed to have health benefits, such as aiding digestion.