When I first encountered Laing, it was like discovering a hidden treasure in my own kitchen. The rich aroma of coconut milk mingled with the unmistakable savory notes of shrimp paste danced through the air, inviting me to dive deeper into this traditional dish. Growing up, I never knew taro leaves could be so transformative, turning a simple meal into an experience that warms the soul.
This recipe is my go-to whenever I want to treat friends or family to something extraordinary yet simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. With just a handful of ingredients—coconut milk, tender pork, and the irresistible creaminess of coconut cream—you’ll create a beautifully comforting dish that feels like a warm hug.
Perfect for those who are tired of fast food and longing for a truly homemade feast, Laing not only satisfies the palate but also offers a glimpse into the heart of Filipino cuisine. Get ready to savor each spoonful and share a taste of authenticity with your loved ones!
Why will you love Laing?
Comforting yet Unique: Laing delivers a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, elevating simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Rich, Creamy Goodness: The combination of coconut milk and cream creates a velvety texture that envelops each bite in warmth and richness.
Mouthwatering Aromas: The fragrant blend of garlic, ginger, and shrimp paste will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas, making it hard to resist.
Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Perfect for sharing, this dish will impress even the pickiest eaters in your family. Serve it with rice for a hearty meal!
Easy to Make: With just one pot and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in no time—ideal for a weeknight dinner.
Looking for more comforting recipes? Be sure to check out our easy coconut recipes for more delicious ideas!
Laing Ingredients
For the Base
- Taro leaves or gabi leaves – Essential for that signature taste and texture, these leafy greens are the star of the dish.
- Coconut milk – This creamy base adds that irresistible richness that makes Laing so comforting.
- Coconut cream – Use this for an extra punch of creaminess right before serving, elevating your Laing!
For the Protein
- Shrimp paste (bagoong) – A must-have for authentic flavor; it brings a savory umami depth to the dish.
- Pork shoulder – Thinly sliced, it adds heartiness, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
For the Aromatics
- Onion – Adds a loving sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- Ginger – Infuses a warm aroma, perfectly complementing the coconut’s creaminess and balancing the dish.
- Garlic – Crushed garlic releases fragrant oils that enhance all the other flavors melded in the pot.
For the Spice
- Red chilies – Add these towards the end for a pop of color and a gentle kick; adjust to your heat preference!
How to Make Laing
-
Combine all the base ingredients in a pot: coconut milk, pork, ginger, shrimp paste, onion, and garlic. Heat over medium until the mixture starts to boil, stirring gently to blend the flavors together beautifully.
-
Simmer the pot, covering it for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the delicious ingredients from sticking to the bottom, allowing the flavors to deepen.
-
Add the dried taro leaves into the pot but resist the urge to stir. Let them absorb the coconut milk for about 20 to 30 minutes. Gently push the leaves down, helping them soak up that rich goodness.
-
Stir the leaves once they’ve fully absorbed the coconut milk, cooking for an additional 10 minutes. The leaves will be tender and full of flavor, creating that creamy texture.
-
Pour in the coconut cream and toss in the red chilies, stirring to combine. Cook for another 10 to 12 minutes, letting all those lovely flavors meld together perfectly.
-
Serve hot and enjoy your Laing, preferably over a bed of steamed rice to soak up all that flavorful sauce!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Laing Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize this delightful recipe with these fun twists and substitutions!
-
Vegetarian: Swap out the pork for mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables to keep the dish hearty and delicious.
-
Spicy Kick: Add more red chilies or include a dash of chili flakes for those who crave an extra spicy kick in each bite.
-
Coconut-Free: Replace coconut milk and cream with almond or soy milk for a lighter version while still delivering a creamy texture.
-
Seafood Delight: Incorporate shrimp or crab meat for a seafood version that adds an additional layer of flavor, making your Laing even more special.
-
Nutty Flavor: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter or tahini for a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish and enhances its creaminess.
-
Savory Swap: Instead of shrimp paste, use fermented bean paste for a vegetarian-friendly umami boost that still packs a punch.
-
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro towards the end of cooking for a fragrant twist that brightens the dish.
-
Texture Twist: For some added crunch, toss in roasted nuts or seeds just before serving to contrast the creamy Laing with a delightful crunch.
What to Serve with Laing?
Indulge in a culinary adventure by pairing this creamy coconut delight with the perfect side dishes and beverages.
-
Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains serve as a wonderful base, soaking up the rich sauce and enhancing every bite of Laing.
-
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp add a delightful smoky flavor that complements the savory notes of Laing beautifully—perfect for a complete feast.
-
Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of pickled veggies contrasts the creaminess, bringing a refreshing balance to your meal.
-
Garlic Fried Rice: The aroma and flavor of garlic rice harmonize with Laing, making each mouthful a symphony of comfort and satisfaction.
-
Lemonade or Calamansi Juice: A refreshing, citrusy drink brightens the palate, cutting through the richness of the dish while adding a zesty twist.
-
Sautéed Eggplant: Tender, sautéed eggplant absorbs the flavors of the dish, providing a lovely texture and a vegetable component that rounds out your meal.
-
Mango Salad: A zesty mango salad adds sweetness and crunch, creating a vibrant contrast against the creamy Laing.
-
Coconut Pudding: End your meal on a sweet note with a light coconut pudding, echoing the flavors of Laing, while offering a delightful creamy dessert.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Laing ahead of time is a great way to save those precious minutes during your busy weekdays! You can allow the base ingredients—coconut milk, pork, ginger, shrimp paste, onion, and garlic—to simmer together and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Just add the dried taro leaves and continue with the cooking process when you’re ready to serve. To maintain quality, store in an airtight container to prevent the coconut milk from absorbing any fridge odors. When it’s time to enjoy, simply reheat the mixture on the stove and follow the final steps, adding the coconut cream and red chilies. You’ll have a delicious Laing that tastes just as comforting and rich as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Laing
Fridge: Store your leftover Laing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its rich flavors and creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Laing in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to avoid ice crystals.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring gently, until fully warmed through.
Freshness Reminder: Keep in mind that the taro leaves may lose some texture after freezing, but the savory taste will still shine.
Helpful Tricks for Laing
-
Select Fresh Leaves: Use fresh taro leaves if possible; they enhance the flavor and texture. Dried leaves can be tough, so follow soaking directions carefully.
-
Balance Coconut: Be mindful of the coconut milk and cream ratios. Too much coconut cream can overpower the dish; I recommend sticking to the measurements for perfect creaminess.
-
Mind the Heat: Adjust the number of red chilies based on your heat preference. Start with fewer chilies if unsure—you can always add more spice later!
-
Avoid Sticking: Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent ingredients from sticking to the pot. This preserves flavor and keeps the texture smooth and creamy.
-
Rest Before Serving: Letting Laing sit for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully; it’s worth the wait for that extra deliciousness!
Laing Recipe FAQs
What type of taro leaves should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh taro leaves are the best choice for Laing, as they provide a beautiful texture and flavor. If you can’t find fresh, dried taro leaves can be used, but be sure to soak them in water for at least an hour to ensure they soften before cooking.
How should I store leftover Laing?
To keep your Laing tasty, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the creamy texture of the dish, and you can enjoy the leftovers just as much as the first serving!
Can I freeze Laing?
Yes! You can freeze Laing in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until thoroughly warmed.
How do I prevent the Laing from sticking to the pot?
To avoid sticking, stir the mixture occasionally during the initial simmering phase. This is crucial to keeping all those wonderful flavors combined and achieving that creamy consistency without any burnt bits on the bottom!
Can Laing be made vegan or vegetarian?
Very! You can substitute the pork with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Also, replace the shrimp paste with a vegan fish sauce or miso for a similar savory note while keeping it plant-based. While the flavor will differ slightly, it still results in a delicious dish!
Is Laing safe for pets?
No, it’s best to avoid sharing Laing with your pets. The shrimp paste is high in salt, which can be harmful to them. It’s always wise to keep these types of flavorful dishes for human consumption only!
Savory Laing: A Creamy Coconut Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine all the base ingredients in a pot: coconut milk, pork, ginger, shrimp paste, onion, and garlic. Heat over medium until the mixture starts to boil, stirring gently.
- Simmer the pot, covering it for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the ingredients from sticking.
- Add the dried taro leaves into the pot but resist the urge to stir. Let them absorb the coconut milk for about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Stir the leaves once they’ve fully absorbed the coconut milk and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Pour in the coconut cream and toss in the red chilies, stirring to combine and cooking for another 10 to 12 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Laing, preferably over a bed of steamed rice.