Ginisang Monggo na May Manok

Sautéed Mung Beans and Chicken with Spinach

What is Ginisang Monggo

Ginisang Monggo is usually eaten on a friday and according to Yummy.ph “this custom stems from the Philippines’ predominantly Catholic population, which refrains from eating meat during Friday every Lenten season. Catholics typically abstain from meat as a form of sacrifice, and monggo was a favorite substitute.” They also said that “This theory dates back to the time of the Spanish occupation when Filipinos were taught by Spanish friars that it was forbidden to eat meat during Friday. Pork, especially, was avoided.”

Monggo has evolved since then and now there are many variations to this dish, including with meat. 

Monngo was an inexpensive ingredient and a nutritious one too! I love making this dish for the family especially during the cold season. It’s versatile as I can make it with chicken, pork, seafood or as a vegetarian dish.  

Let’s talk ingredients

I bought my mung beans from my local supermarket, I have to say that small or metro supermarkets don’t sell these so try and go to larger supermarkets. All the other ingredients are easily accessible. 

You may notice that my Monggo is not so soupy but you can make it more soupy if you like. It really depends on your preference.