Pinakbet 3-Veggie Recipe

Note: Not every one enjoys the bitter flavors of the bitter gourd. In case you are one of those, replace this vegetable with squash or pumpkin. You can also add string beans, if so desired.

Saute the garlic in hot oil. When the garlic turns golden, add the tomatoes. Season the dish with half of the fish sauce. Crush the tomatoes as they cook to release more juice.

When the tomatoes wilt, add the bitter gourd, eggplant, okra and onion. Mix well. Add water. Season the dish with fish paste, remaining fish sauce and pepper. Cover the dish and allow it to simmer under low to medium heat for about 10 minutes.

Taste the sauce of the dish. Add sugar if the dish is too bitter for your taste. Let it simmer for at least 5 minutes more. Adjust the taste with fish sauce and pepper one last time.

Turn off the heat. Remove from the stove. Serve when ready.