When it comes to cooking, munggo or mongo beans are a staple ingredient in many Filipino households. These small, green legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making them a great addition to a variety of dishes. From hearty stews and soups to crispy snacks and sweet desserts, mongo is a versatile ingredient that can be used in countless ways.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious mongo recipes that are perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast dish or a flavorful main course, we’ve got you covered. From classic combinations like pork and shrimp to innovative pairings with coconut milk and spices, our recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
So, let’s dive into the wonderful world of mongo cooking!
Mongo Guisado with Pork and Shrimp
This classic Filipino dish is a hearty and flavorful combination of pork, shrimp, and vegetables cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. Serve it over steamed rice for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup mongo (or lima beans), drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add shrimp, onion, garlic, and tomatoes. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mongo, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ginisang Mongo with Ampalaya
This classic Filipino dish combines the creamy richness of mongo (mung bean) with the spicy kick of ampalaya (bitter melon). A simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mung beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium-sized bitter melons, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: fish sauce or patis for added umami flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the mung beans and bitter melon slices. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt to taste. If desired, add fish sauce or patis for added flavor.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the mung beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mongo Soup with Malunggay
This hearty soup is a staple in many Filipino households, made even more nutritious by the addition of malunggay (morning glory) leaves. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mongo beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup malunggay leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine mongo beans, water, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
3. Add malunggay leaves and season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the leaves have wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crispy Mongo Tofu Patties
Transform humble tofu into a crispy, savory delight with these simple-to-make patties. Perfect as a snack or addition to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the crumbled tofu to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. If using eggs, beat them lightly and add to the mixture.
4. Using your hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mongo and Coconut Milk Stew
This hearty stew is a staple in many Southeast Asian cuisines, with the creamy richness of coconut milk perfectly balancing the earthy sweetness of monggo (mung beans). This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried munggo (monggo), rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the munggo and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the munggo, then sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a large pot until softened.
3. Add the munggo, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the munggo is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Mongo with Long Beans
This recipe combines the creamy richness of mung beans with the crunch and sweetness of long beans, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mung beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 medium-long beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or sesame oil for stir-frying
Instructions:
1. Cook the mung beans according to package instructions or by boiling them in water or broth until tender.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes; stir-fry for 1 minute.
3. Add the long beans and cook until they start to soften, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked mung beans, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Mongo Salad with Tomatoes and Onions
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of tomatoes and onions with the earthy taste of mongo, perfect for a light meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mongo leaves
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mongo leaves, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced onions.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze in the lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Mongo and Corn Soup
This vibrant and flavorful soup combines the earthy sweetness of mongo with the natural creaminess of corn, making it a perfect comfort food for any season. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious and nutritious treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mongo, diced
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the diced mongo in butter until tender.
2. Add the frozen corn kernels, vegetable broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the corn is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, allow it to cool and blend in a blender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat the soup over low heat until warmed through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Adobong Mongo with Chicken
Adobong mongo is a popular Filipino dish that combines the rich flavors of mung beans, chicken, and spices. This recipe is a delicious twist on the classic adobo, adding tender chicken to the mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mung beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pot.
4. Cook the onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the mung beans, soy sauce, vinegar, black pepper, and salt. Stir well.
6. Add the chicken back into the pot and pour in the water.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the mung beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Mongo Pancakes with Garlic Dip
Experience the perfect fusion of savory and sweet with this unique recipe featuring Mongo Pancakes paired with a rich Garlic Dip.
Ingredients:
For Mongo Pancakes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
For Garlic Dip:
– 8 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the griddle or frying pan over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Drop batter onto the preheated griddle or frying pan to form pancakes.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
For Garlic Dip:
1. In a bowl, mix together minced garlic and sour cream.
2. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ginataang Mongo with Spinach
Ginataang mongo is a popular Filipino dish that combines the creamy goodness of coconut milk with the tender flavor of mung beans. In this recipe, we’ll take it to the next level by adding some nutritious spinach for an added boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mung beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt to taste
– Ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine mung beans and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until onion is translucent.
3. Add coconut milk and spinach leaves. Stir until spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine cooked mung beans and spinach mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes or until flavors are well combined.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mongo and Egg Omelette
Mongo and Egg Omelette Recipe
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mung beans with the richness of eggs, creating a nutritious and filling breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup cooked mung beans (freshly cooked or canned)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook until the edges start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle the cooked mung beans onto half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the mung beans.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the eggs are almost set and the mung beans are heated through.
7. Slide the omelette onto a plate and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 minutes
Sweet Mongo and Banana Dessert
Sweet Mango and Banana Dessert Recipe
Discover the perfect blend of tropical flavors with this Sweet Mango and Banana Dessert recipe! A delightful fusion of sweet and tangy, this dessert is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup fresh mango chunks
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, honey, and salt.
3. Add the sliced bananas and mango chunks; toss until well coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and melted butter; stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream and additional mango slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mongo Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers
A flavorful and colorful stir-fry that combines the richness of mongo with the sweetness of bell peppers, all in one quick and easy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mongo (or substitute with firm tofu)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mongo and cook, breaking apart with a spatula, until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with green onions (if desired) and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mongo and Squash Curry
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of spices and textures, featuring tender mongo and sweet squash in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mongo, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium-sized squashes (such as butternut or acorn), peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mongo, squashes, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 15-20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mongo with Dried Fish and Chili
Mongo, a popular West African dish, gets a flavorful boost from the addition of dried fish and chili peppers. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mongo beans
– 1/2 cup dried fish (such as cod or tilapia)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon chili peppers, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mongo beans and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and cook the mongo beans according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the dried fish and chili peppers to the pan and stir-fry until the fish is tender.
5. Combine the cooked mongo beans with the fish mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or with a side of plantains.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mongo and Tuna Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of mongo (or mangrove) with the tender bite of tuna, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 1 cup of mongo or mangrove leaves
– 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can of coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add the mongo leaves, tuna, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the stew has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mongo with Coconut and Turmeric Rice
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the benefits of mung beans with the warmth of turmeric and the creaminess of coconut. This aromatic rice is perfect for accompanying a variety of dishes, from curries to stir-fries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mung beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mung beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the mung beans again.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the mung beans, water or broth, shredded coconut, coconut milk, turmeric, and salt.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the mung beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional shredded coconut if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mongo and Sweet Potato Soup
This hearty soup combines the creamy texture of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of Mongo, resulting in a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for a chilly evening. With its rich aroma and velvety consistency, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup Mongo (dried or fresh)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: cream or coconut milk for added richness
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes, Mongo, vegetable broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add cream or coconut milk for added richness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mongo Chips with Spicy Vinegar Dip
Elevate your snack game with this addictive combination of crunchy mongo chips and tangy, spicy vinegar dip. Perfect for game nights or as a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of mongo chips
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as sriracha)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Spread the mongo chips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, hot sauce, and honey.
6. Season the dip with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the baked mongo chips warm with the spicy vinegar dip for an irresistible combination.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including baking time)
Summary
Discover the versatility of mongo recipes with this collection of 20 delicious and creative dishes for every occasion. From hearty soups and stews to crispy appetizers and sweet desserts, these recipes showcase the potential of mongo as a versatile ingredient. Try classic Filipino favorites like Mongo Guisado with Pork and Shrimp or Ginisang Mongo with Ampalaya, or experiment with international twists like Crispy Mongo Tofu Patties or Mongo and Coconut Milk Stew. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a mongo recipe to satisfy it.