Sinaing na Galunggong sa Sampalok

Comfort food for the busy days, sour and savory in all the right ways.

If there’s one dish that brings me a sense of calm even during the busiest of weeks, it’s sinaing. My all-time favorite is Sinaing na Tulingan — I’ve probably made it more times than I can count (as in, hindi na kasya sa dalawang kamay!). Pero alam mo ba? Mas nauna ko pang nai-blog itong Sinaing na Galunggong sa Sampalok! Kaloka, diba?

In fairness, it really deserves its own spotlight. The rich, umami flavor this dish brings out in the fish is just something else. I love how the sampalok adds that perfect sourness, balanced by the saltiness of soy sauce and the subtle heat from the siling berde. The fish becomes tender, flavorful, and so addicting — you can’t help but pile on the rice!

Lately, life has been a whirlwind. The back-to-school rush is in full swing.

By full swing, I mean controlled chaos! 😂I’ve been juggling errands, preparing school supplies, fixing schedules, and making sure Ykaie and Twinkle are all set. Ang dami talagang ganap! But good food like this helps ground me. Minsan, all it takes is a warm plate of home-cooked ulam and rice para makabawi ng energy at makangiti ulit.

Ykaie is now in Grade 12, and I still can’t believe how fast time flies. She’s becoming more independent, and I’m both proud and emotional about it. We’ve been shopping for school supplies, fixing her uniforms, and updating her school apps. She’s been so hands-on and organized — a trait she definitely didn’t get from me when I was her age (haha!).

Meanwhile, Twinkle just moved up to Grade Four and she’s bursting with excitement. Every day she asks if it’s time to go to class already, and she’s been laying out her things the night before — from pencils to her little water bottle. Watching her excitement reminds me how joyful learning can be when you’re that young and curious.

But of course, behind all that cuteness is a very tired Nanay (aka me 😅). The errands, the baon prep, the schedules — it’s a lot. Kaya meals like this Sinaing na Galunggong sa Sampalok really help. Hindi lang mabilis lutuin, nakakabusog din sa katawan at puso. It grounds me and reminds me that even when things get overwhelming, there’s always comfort in a hot meal and shared moments at the table.

If you love sinaing dishes or you’re just looking for a comforting new way to cook galunggong, this recipe is worth a try. Maasim, maalat, malasa — it’s simple but full of character, just like the best Filipino comfort foods.