Isaw

Name: Isaw
Yield: 3
Cuisine: Philippines
Ingredients: Chicken or pork intestines, thoroughly cleaned — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz); Bay leaves — 2; Whole peppercorns — 1 tsp; Soy sauce — 60 ml (2 fl oz); Vinegar — 2 tbsp; Garlic, minced — 2 cloves; Brown sugar — 2 tbsp; Bamboo skewers; Vinegar dipping sauce with chilli, to serve

The Quirky Foodster Team

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)

Servings

Ingredients

Chicken or pork intestines, thoroughly cleaned — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz)
Bay leaves — 2
Whole peppercorns — 1 tsp
Soy sauce — 60 ml (2 fl oz)
Vinegar — 2 tbsp
Garlic, minced — 2 cloves
Brown sugar — 2 tbsp
Bamboo skewers
Vinegar dipping sauce with chilli, to serve

Method

Boil the thoroughly cleaned intestines with the bay leaves and peppercorns for 45–60 minutes until tender; drain.
Combine the soy sauce, vinegar, garlic and brown sugar to make a basting glaze.
Thread the boiled intestines onto skewers, weaving them in a coiled pattern.
Grill over hot charcoal, basting frequently with the glaze, for 8–10 minutes until charred and glossy.
Serve hot with a vinegar-chilli dipping sauce.

Introduction: Grilled chicken or pork intestines skewered and basted with a savoury glaze, a beloved and iconic Filipino street food.

Cultural Background: Isaw is a treasured Filipino street food, its preparation reflecting a resourceful, no-waste cooking tradition, the intestines cleaned thoroughly, skewered and grilled until charred and flavourful.

Tips: Thorough cleaning of the intestines beforehand is essential for both flavour and food safety. Baste frequently while grilling to build up a glossy, flavourful glaze.

Variations: Use chicken intestines for a milder flavour compared to pork. Adjust the dipping sauce's chilli quantity to taste.

Storage: Refrigerate cooked isaw in an airtight container for up to 1 day.

Reheating: Reheat in a hot dry pan for a few minutes, or briefly under a grill.

FAQs:

Q: How is isaw traditionally prepared for cleanliness?

A: The intestines are thoroughly washed, often multiple times with salt and vinegar, before boiling, an essential step for both flavour and food safety.

Q: What is isaw typically served with?

A: A tangy vinegar dipping sauce with chopped chilli.