Bangsilog – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Philippines Servings: 4
Philippines Servings: 4Bangsilog is a beloved Filipino breakfast dish that combines the savory flavors of fried milkfish (bangus), garlic fried rice (sinangag), and a sunny-side-up egg (itlog). Rooted in Filipino culinary tradition, this dish is loved for its balance of flavors and textures: the tangy and juicy fried milkfish, the comforting and fragrant garlic rice, and the rich, runny yolk of a perfectly cooked egg. It’s a staple in many Filipino households and eateries, offering a hearty start to the day.
Ingredients
- bangus (milkfish), cleaned and scaled – 4 fillets
- soy sauce – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
- calamansi or lime juice – 2 tablespoons / 30 ml
- garlic, minced – 6 cloves / 18 g
- cooked rice – 4 cups / 920 g
- salt – 1 teaspoon / 5 g
- pepper – 1 teaspoon / 5 g
- cooking oil – 4 tablespoons / 60 ml
- eggs – 4
Instructions
- Marinate the bangus fillets in soy sauce, calamansi juice, and half of the minced garlic for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the marinated bangus fillets until golden brown on both sides. Set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining oil and sauté the rest of the garlic until fragrant.
- Add the cooked rice to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until the rice is well combined with the garlic. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a separate pan, fry the eggs sunny-side up to your preferred doneness.
- Serve the garlic rice on a plate, top with a piece of fried bangus and a fried egg.
Substitutions
- bangus (milkfish) -> tilapia or mackerel
- calamansi -> lemon or lime juice
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a vinegar dipping sauce for increased tanginess.
- Incorporate a side of atchara (pickled papaya) for an additional flavor profile.
- Add a slice of tomato on the side to introduce fresh elements.
- Enhance the marinade with a bit of sugar for a sweet-salty balance.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
