Waknatoy Recipe | Panlasang Pinoy Meaty Recipes (2024)

Waknatoy or menudo ng Marikina is very similar to the popular pork menudo but the only difference is it does not have potatoes or carrots and it has pickles. That is why it has a sweet tangy flavor because of the pickles which the ordinary pork menudo does not have.

Waknatoy: A Unique Twist on a Filipino Classic

Waknatoy, also known as Menudo ng Marikina, is a delightful dish that puts a unique twist on the traditional pork menudo. What sets Waknatoy apart is its omission of potatoes and carrots, replaced instead with pickles. This addition gives Waknatoy a distinctive sweet and tangy flavor profile that sets it apart from its more familiar counterpart, the pork menudo.

History of Waknatoy

Maybe you are wondering why it is called “waknatoy”? The story behind this is way back since the Spanish era in the Philippines and there are Chinese immigrants living in Marikina that time. Those Chinese are already fed up on eating this kind of menudo wherever they go to carinderia or eatery to eat. When the eateries serve this dish they always say “waknatoy” and since most Chinese are not fluent in speaking Filipino, their Chinese accent pronounce the words “wag na ito” to “wak na toy” (in english: No! not this again!). So the people in Marikina named this dish waknatoy.

Cooking Waknatoy: Sautéing Aromatics: Building Flavor

To start, heat oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onions, and tomatoes until the onions are soft and translucent. This initial step forms the flavor base of the dish, infusing the oil with the aromatic flavors of garlic and onion.

Adding the Pork: Sealing in Juices

Add the pork to the pot and sauté it with the aromatics. Season the pork with salt and pepper to taste. Sautéing the pork helps to seal in its juices and enhances its flavor. Stir-cook the pork and aromatics together for about 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Simmering with Sauces: Infusing Flavor

Pour in the vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and two cups of water. These sauces add depth and complexity to the dish, infusing the pork with rich, savory flavors. Cover the pot and simmer the pork until it is almost tender, adding more water if needed to prevent it from drying out.

Adding Pickles: A Sweet and Tangy Twist

Once the pork is almost tender, add the pickle relish. The pickles give Waknatoy its distinctive sweet and tangy flavor, setting it apart from traditional pork menudo. Stir in the pickle relish, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Introducing Sausage and Chorizo: Adding Layers of Flavor

Add the sliced sausage and chorizo de Bilbao to the pot. These ingredients add a depth of flavor and a rich, smoky undertone to the dish. Cover the pot and simmer until the bell peppers are almost cooked, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Incorporating Bell Peppers: Adding Color and Texture

Add the diced bell peppers to the pot. The bell peppers not only add a vibrant pop of color to the dish but also contribute a subtle sweetness and a satisfying crunch. Simmer the dish until the bell peppers are tender-crisp, retaining their bright color and fresh flavor.

Adding Tomato Sauce: Enhancing Flavor and Texture

Stir in the tomato sauce, coating the pork and vegetables with its rich, tomatoey goodness. The tomato sauce adds a luscious texture and a savory depth to the dish, tying all the flavors together into a harmonious whole.

Adding Pork Liver: A Rich and Nutritious Addition

Finally, add the sliced pork liver to the pot. The liver adds a rich, meaty flavor and a velvety texture to the dish. Simmer the Waknatoy until the liver is cooked through, ensuring it is tender and flavorful.

Adjusting Seasoning: Perfecting the Flavor

Taste the Waknatoy and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add patis, a Filipino fish sauce, to enhance the savory flavor of the dish. Serve the Waknatoy hot with steamed rice for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Food for Thought

The addition of pickles in Waknatoy not only adds a unique flavor but also contributes to its nutritional value. Pickles are a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. Additionally, pickles are low in calories and can add a flavorful twist to dishes without adding extra fat or sugar.

Waknatoy is a dish that embodies the Filipino spirit of innovation and resourcefulness. By taking a classic recipe and adding a unique twist, Waknatoy has become a beloved dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Marikina. So, the next time you’re craving a taste of something different, why not give Waknatoy a try?