What is this food?
Pork with black beans (canned). It’s a protein-forward ulam with some fiber and carbohydrates coming from the beans.
Why it matters to health
This combo helps you feel full and supports muscle repair because pork provides protein. Black beans add fiber (good for digestion and helps you manage your appetite), plus some carbohydrates for energy. However, this dish can be higher in sodium (351 mg per 100 g) and total fat (16.2 g per 100 g), especially if the canned version is salty. Keeping portions and frequency balanced helps you enjoy it without pushing your daily salt and fat too high.
Healthier tips
- Use a smaller serving: aim for about 1/2 to 1 cup per meal (or roughly 100–150 g cooked, depending on your other food).
- Rinse the canned black beans if they’re in brine/sauce to reduce sodium.
- Balance your plate: pair with 1–2 cups non-starchy vegetables (e.g., pechay, kangkong, talong, okra) and a sensible amount of rice.
- Choose cooking style that reduces extra fat: stir-fry with minimal oil or simmer instead of deep-frying.
- If you’re having this for lunch or dinner, keep it lighter for the next meal and add more veggies or soup.
Common Filipino dishes
Pork Binagoongan, Pork Adobo with Beans, Humba, Menudo, Black Bean Pork Stew, Ginataang Kalabasa with Pork