This Ground Pork Afritada with a Sweet and Savory Sauce is a delightful Filipino breakfast dish. Ground pork simmers in a rich tomato sauce with a hint of sweetness, paired with hearty potatoes and carrots. Quick, nutritious, and bursting with flavor, it’s a cozy way to start your day.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Break Up the Pork: Use a wooden spoon to crumble the ground pork evenly as it cooks for a consistent texture.
- Balance the Sweetness: Taste the sauce before adding more sugar—adjust to your liking.
- Quick Simmer: Since it’s ground meat, this cooks faster than chunky cuts, so keep an eye on it.
- Deglaze the Pan: Scrape up those browned bits after cooking the pork—they’re flavor gold!
- Fresh Garnish: A sprinkle of green onions or parsley adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready to fall head over heels for this Ground Pork Afritada! It’s the kind of breakfast that wraps you in warmth and flavor from the very first bite. You’ll love how the ground pork soaks up the sweet-and-savory tomato sauce, creating a rich, comforting base that’s anything but boring. The addition of potatoes and carrots makes it hearty and wholesome, while a touch of sugar brings a subtle sweetness that dances with the savory notes—pure Filipino magic! It’s quick enough for busy mornings but feels like a special treat, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring solo. Plus, it’s packed with protein and veggies to keep you energized all day. This dish is a game-changer—simple, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying!
Ground Pork Afritada with a Sweet and Savory Sauce
A quick Filipino ground pork stew with a sweet-savory sauce, potatoes, and carrots—perfect for breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground pork
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced small
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- ¾ cup water or low-sodium broth
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for warmth and color)
- Green onions or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Hey, let’s whip up a breakfast that’ll make your taste buds sing! Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and shiny. Add your ground pork, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it sizzle for 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and crumbly—those little crispy bits are pure treasure!
- Next, toss in your chopped onion and let it soften for 2-3 minutes, stirring it into the porky goodness. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells like a dream. Now, stir in the chopped tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes if you’re using canned), letting them melt into a saucy base—give it a good mix to wake up all those flavors.
- Time to bring in the veggies: add your diced potatoes and sliced carrots, stirring them into the mix. Pour in the water or broth, then season with soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika for that cozy glow. Give it a stir, bring it to a gentle simmer, and let it cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally—the potatoes and carrots should be tender, and the sauce should thicken into a sweet-savory hug.
- Once it’s ready, taste it—tweak the salt or sugar if it needs a little love. Let it rest for 5 minutes off the heat to settle, then sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley on top for a fresh, pretty touch. Serve it hot, maybe with a slice of toast or a warm tortilla to scoop up every bite. Enjoy—this is breakfast bliss!
Notes
- Dice veggies small to cook faster with the ground meat.
- If the sauce reduces too much, add a splash of water to keep it saucy.
- Perfect for meal prep—divide into containers for grab-and-go mornings!
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per ServingCalories 210Total Fat 6gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 46mgSodium 451mgCarbohydrates 21gFiber 3gSugar 5gProtein 20g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Ground Pork: Lean ground pork (80/20) works best—flavorful yet not too greasy. Grass-fed is a healthy upgrade.
- Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes create a bright sauce; canned crushed tomatoes save time without sacrificing taste.
- Potatoes: Baby potatoes or Yukon Golds add a creamy texture and mild sweetness.
- Carrots: These bring color, crunch, and natural sweetness—slice them thin for quicker cooking.
- Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami; low-sodium keeps it healthier.
- Brown Sugar: Just a touch balances the acidity of the tomatoes—honey or maple syrup can sub in.
- Garlic and Onion: The dynamic duo for that aromatic, savory backbone.
- Olive Oil: A lighter fat for cooking; swap with avocado oil if you prefer.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is super flexible—make it your own! Swap ground pork for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that still packs flavor. Vegetarian? Crumbled tempeh or lentils step in beautifully, soaking up that sweet-savory sauce. No carrots? Try peas or diced zucchini for a veggie twist. If fresh tomatoes aren’t handy, a combo of tomato sauce and a spoonful of paste works like a charm. Want some heat? Toss in a pinch of cayenne or a diced chili. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can even skip the sugar and lean into savory vibes with extra herbs like thyme or bay leaf. Endless possibilities, endless deliciousness!
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days—the flavors get better with time!
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water, or microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring well.
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