National Dish Philippines: Upo Guisado (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Upo Guisado, a comforting Filipino stew built around the mild, tender flesh of bottle gourd. Simple, wholesome and endlessly forgiving, it brings together gentle vegetables, savoury meat and a fragrant base of garlic and onion in one homely pot. It is the kind of everyday dish that fills a Filipino kitchen with warmth, and it slips easily into any cook’s weekly routine. Bring a taste of home-style Philippine cooking straight to your own table.
About Upo Guisado
Upo Guisado is a much-loved, flavoursome stew that has won the hearts of Filipino families. Its star ingredient is upo, or bottle gourd, prized for its mild taste and delicate texture. The preparation varies from region to region, and the dish is often enriched with meat such as pork or chicken, and sometimes with seafood. This dish reflects the culinary variety of the Philippines, offering a harmonious blend of wholesome ingredients and aromatic seasonings.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 1 medium upo (bottle gourd)
- 200 g pork or chicken breast, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander or spring onions, to garnish
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the ingredients for Upo Guisado, it is important to pay attention to the freshness of the produce. Visit a local market or an Asian grocery to find the best ingredients. Upo is often available in the Asian section of larger supermarkets, and fresh vegetables are usually on offer there too. Make sure the meat is of good quality to guarantee the best flavour.
Preparing the dish
Before you begin making Upo Guisado, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready. Wash the upo thoroughly and cut it into pieces. If you are using meat, cut it into even cubes so it cooks uniformly. The onion and garlic should be finely chopped so they release their full aroma during cooking. A well-organised preparation makes the whole cooking process smoother and more efficient.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the onion and garlic until golden brown.
- Add the diced meat and brown it well on all sides.
- Add the cut upo along with the vegetable stock and bring to the boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the dish simmer for 20–30 minutes, until the vegetable is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh coriander or spring onions.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
The recipe for Upo Guisado is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, which makes it a great option for anyone following a special diet. Do take care, though, that any stocks or sauces you use contain no hidden gluten or lactose. This simple preparation can easily be adapted to suit a wide range of dietary needs. Enjoy the dish without a second thought!
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan or vegetarian version of Upo Guisado, you can replace the meat with tofu or extra vegetables. Tofu makes an excellent source of protein and provides a comparable texture. The stock should also be vegan, as this keeps the dish entirely plant-based. With a selection of colourful vegetables such as carrots, peas or peppers, you can broaden both the nutritional variety and the flavour of your dish. The same idea works beautifully in a hearty Vegetable Kare Kare.
More tips and tricks
A few extra tips can really improve your Upo Guisado. Experiment with different seasonings, such as ginger or chilli, to adjust the dish to your taste. Take care not to overcook the upo, so it keeps its tender texture and fresh flavour. Serve the dish hot and enjoy it with a side of rice to round off the experience. A bowl of Sinangag garlic fried rice makes the perfect partner.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Adapt the recipe for Upo Guisado easily to your own preferences. Add extra vegetables that you love, or switch up the type of meat to discover new flavours. Some people prefer a creamier sauce, which you can achieve by stirring in a little coconut milk. Enjoy the process of experimenting and make the recipe your own!
Ingredient substitutions
If you cannot find certain ingredients for Upo Guisado, think about alternatives. For the stock, for instance, you might use a homemade version or another flavour, such as mushroom or tomato stock. The meat, too, can be swapped for various protein sources, such as beef or seitan for vegans. This lets you prepare the dish even with the ingredients you happen to have on hand.
Drink pairing ideas
To round off your Upo Guisado perfectly, the right drinks matter too. A classic Filipino drink such as kalamansi juice, a refreshing citrus cooler, pairs wonderfully with this savoury dish. Alternatively, you could serve unsweetened iced tea or sparkling water to cleanse the palate between mouthfuls. Experiment with different drinks to complete the dining experience!
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of Upo Guisado can make all the difference to the meal. Serve the dish in rustic bowls or on a large platter to show off the colours and textures. Garnish with fresh herbs such as coriander or spring onions, which are pleasing both to the palate and to the eye. Remember to set out a fine bowl of rice as a side to complete the picture.
A bit of history
Upo Guisado has a fascinating history bound up with the culture and traditions of the Philippines. The dish is a prime example of the fusion between native ingredients and the culinary influences that grew out of the country’s colonial past. Upo is regarded as a staple and holds great importance in many households. The preparation and the recipes vary from family to family, reflecting the rich cultural traditions that shape the Filipino heritage and the wider world of Philippine cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Upo Guisado
In summary, Upo Guisado is a wonderful dish that is not only delicious but also embodies the rich traditions of Philippine cuisine. With its fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it slips effortlessly into any kitchen. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a delightful way to discover new flavours. Give it a try and experience the taste of the Philippines in your own home!
