crispy dinakdakan recipe

The Crispy Dinakdakan Recipe You've Been Waiting For

If you're a fan of Filipino cuisine, you've probably heard of dinakdakan, a popular appetizer or snack from the Ilocos region. This crispy dinakdakan recipe is a twist on the classic dish, adding a satisfying crunch to the usual tender and flavorful grilled pork face. Yes, you read that right – pork face!

A Brief History of Dinakdakan

Dinakdakan originated from the Ilocos region in the Philippines, specifically from the Ilocano people. The name "dinakdakan" comes from the Ilocano words "dina" meaning "to chop" and "kakan" meaning "to eat." Traditionally, dinakdakan is made with boiled and chopped pork face, mixed with spices, vinegar, and chili peppers. It's often served as a side dish or appetizer, and it's a staple in many Filipino gatherings and celebrations.

The Crispy Twist

To add a modern spin to this classic dish, we're going to make it crispy! By breading and deep-frying the pork face, we'll create a crispy exterior that complements the tender interior. This crispy dinakdakan recipe is perfect for snacking, as an appetizer, or even as a topping for rice or noodles.

The Recipe

Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 kilogram pork face, boiled and chopped
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the chopped pork face to the bowl and toss until the pork is well-coated with the flour mixture.
3. If using, sprinkle grated cheese and chopped scallions on top of the pork and toss again.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together vinegar, fish sauce, and chili flakes.
5. Add the vinegar mixture to the pork mixture and toss until well-combined.
6. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Once the oil is hot, add the pork mixture in batches and fry until crispy and golden brown.
8. Drain the crispy dinakdakan on paper towels and serve hot.

Tips and Variations

For an extra crispy exterior, you can chill the pork mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying.

Experiment with different seasonings and spices to give your crispy dinakdakan a unique flavor. Some options include garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.

Try serving your crispy dinakdakan with a side of steamed rice, garlic fried rice, or even as a topping for noodle dishes like pancit or ramen.

Get creative and enjoy your crispy dinakdakan recipe!