Soup number five – 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: Serves 4
Philippines Servings: Serves 4Soup Number Five, known locally in the Philippines as ‘Lanciao’, is not just a soup; it’s an exotic culinary experience reputed for its invigorating properties. This traditional Filipino dish is known for using bull’s penis and testicles as primary ingredients, believed to enhance stamina and energy. Though its origins are deeply rooted in folklore and street food culture, today it offers a daring flavor to adventurous food enthusiasts looking to explore beyond the ordinary.
Ingredients
- bull’s penis – 1 piece / 500 g
- bull’s testicles – 4 pieces / 400 g
- ginger – 2 inches, sliced / 30 g
- onion – 1 medium, chopped / 100 g
- garlic – 4 cloves, minced / 20 g
- vinegar – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
- water – 6 cups / 1.5 liters
- salt – 2 tsp / 10 g
- pepper – 1 tsp / 5 g
- bay leaves – 2 pieces
- spring onions – 2 stalks, chopped / 20 g
- chili pepper – 1 piece, sliced / 10 g
Instructions
- Clean the bull’s penis and testicles thoroughly under running water.
- Boil them in a pot with enough water to cover for about 10 minutes to remove any odor. Drain and rinse again.
- Slice the bull’s penis into bite-sized pieces; cut the testicles in half.
- In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat and sauté the ginger, onion, and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the sliced bull’s penis and testicles. Sauté for a few minutes.
- Pour in the vinegar and let it simmer uncovered for 5 minutes.
- Add water, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Garnish with chopped spring onions and chili pepper before serving.
Substitutions
- bull’s penis -> beef brisket
- bull’s testicles -> beef shank
- vinegar -> lemon juice
- bay leaves -> oregano
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Enhance the broth’s flavor by adding beef bones during simmering.
- Incorporate Filipino spices such as annatto powder for color.
- Try adding a splash of fish sauce for authenticity.
- Incorporate a variety of vegetables like radishes and carrots for added texture.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
