Tokwat Baboy Recipe: The Ultimate Appetizer

Tokwat Baboy is a classic Filipino dish that combines crispy deep-fried tofu (tokwa) and tender pork (baboy), typically served with a tangy and savory soy-vinegar dipping sauce.

It’s often enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or pulutan (bar chow). Known for its bold flavors and satisfying contrast in textures, Tokwat Baboy is simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Equipment Needed

Pot (for boiling pork)

Frying pan or deep fryer (for tofu)

Strainer or slotted spoon

Mixing bowl

Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

300 g pork belly or pork face (maskara)

300 g firm tofu, cut into cubes

Salt, to taste

Oil for frying

For the Sauce

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup cane vinegar or white vinegar

1 small red onion, finely chopped

2–3 cloves garlic, minced

1–2 Thai chilies (siling labuyo), chopped (optional)

1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Directions

Preparation time: 15 minutes, Cooking: 45 minutes, Total time: Approximately 1 hour

Cook the Pork: In a pot, boil pork belly with a pinch of salt until tender (about 30–40 minutes). Let it cool, then slice into bite-sized pieces.

Fry the Tofu: While the pork is boiling, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, chopped onion, garlic, chilies, and sugar (if using). Mix well and let it sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to blend.

Assemble the Dish: In a serving bowl, mix the fried tofu and pork. Pour the sauce over or serve it on the side as a dip, depending on your preference.

How to Serve

Tokwat Baboy is best served warm or at room temperature, either as a standalone dish or with rice or lugaw (rice porridge). For a healthier version, the pork can be grilled instead of boiled, and tofu can be air-fried. You can also add cucumber slices or scallions for freshness and extra crunch.

Final Word

Tokwat Baboy delivers the perfect balance of savory, sour, and spicy flavors in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a pulutan, or a side, it’s a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings a familiar Filipino comfort to the table. Give it a try—you’ll love its delicious simplicity!