Munggo with Vegetarian or Meat-Eaters' Options

Mung beans, referred to as munggo in Filipino, is the seed of the Vigna Radiata plant which is native to India. I would compare them to the more popular black-eyed peas, which I think it is similar to in size, taste, and texture. The only difference is the mung bean is green. Mung beans are used in Filipino cooking, both in hearty, savory dishes and sweet desserts. It's quite versatile and yummy!

So if you're in the mood to try something new, try this recipe. It's superb paired with any savory meat and white rice. Heads up: So far, I've only been able to find mung beans in the asian food store. As for the fish sauce, I've seen this in stock at the local grocery store. If you can't find it at yours, it's guaranteed in stock at the asian food store.

Munggo (serves 8-10)

Ingredients:

2 1/2 cups mung beans

7 cups water

1/4 lb bacon, sliced in 1" pieces

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 onion, roughly chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup tomatoes, roughly chopped

2 cups water

1/3 cup fish sauce

2 cups fresh spinach

2 tbsp pepper

Directions:

1. Combine mung beans and 7 cups of water in a large pot. Cook over medium-high heat for about 45 minutes, partially covered. The beans will start to absorb the water. When they have absorbed nearly all of the water and softened properly, the beans will look like they have split open and you should be able to mash the beans easily with a fork. This step can be done ahead of time and refrigerated up to a day in advance.

2. In another large pot, brown bacon. When bacon is browned, remove from heat and place bacon over paper towels to de-grease. Remove bacon grease from pan. After removing bacon grease from pan, add extra virgin olive oil to the same pan. Add onions and cook for 3 minutes. Add garlic and tomatoes. Continue to cook for 5 minutes.

3. Add cooked mung beans, 2 cups of water, fish sauce, spinach, and pepper. Continue to cook covered, over low heat for 5 minutes, or until spinach cooks completely.

Recipe Options: Make this a vegetarian dish by eliminating the bacon.