Fresh tomatoes, savory shrimp paste, and a touch of onion – our classic Filipino side dish will add some bold flavour to your meal! Try it now! 🍅🍤👌 Experience the bold flavour of Kamatis Bagoong at Lasona, a classic Filipino side dish made with fresh tomatoes, shrimp paste, and onions. Delicious!
Kamatis Bagoong at Lasona, or KBL, is a traditional Filipino condiment that is popular in the Northern regions of the Philippines, particularly among the Ilocano people. Don’t be mistaken with the Southern dish Kadyos, Baboy at Langka with the same acronym as this Northern KBL is made with sliced tomatoes (Kamatis), fermented fish sauce (Bagoong), and sliced native onions (Lasona). These simple ingredients are combined to create a flavourful relish that perfectly complements many fried dishes, especially bagnet, a crispy pork dish that is a favourite of many Filipinos.
Unlike other regions of the Philippines that rely on vinegar or patis (clear fish sauce) as a dipping sauce or sawsawan, the Ilocano people prefer KBL for its unique and distinct flavour. The fish sauce used in KBL is typically the murky, cloudy version, which is different from the clear patis that is commonly used in other parts of the country. This gives KBL its distinct umami flavour and fishy aftertaste that some people may find off-putting.
Despite its pungent aroma and flavour, KBL is a beloved condiment in the Northern regions of the Philippines, where it is a staple at many meals. It is typically served alongside bagnet or other fried dishes, and is often eaten kamayan style, where diners use their bare hands to pick up the food and dip it into the KBL.
KBL is not only delicious, but it is also very easy to make at home. To make your own KBL, simply slice some fresh tomatoes and onions, and mix them together with fish sauce to taste. You can adjust the amount of fish sauce to your liking, depending on how salty you prefer your KBL. Some people also like to add a little bit of sugar to balance out the saltiness of the fish sauce.
Although KBL is a traditional Filipino side dish, it is not widely known outside of the Philippines. However, for those who have tried it, KBL is a taste of home and a reminder of the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the Philippines.
A different yet very refreshing and delicious tomato salad. I like the idea of using fermented fish sauce to dress the tomatoes.
Yum. I can definitely see this served with a steak! Or lamb chop. Or shrimp!
Looks like such a delicious side salad! Thanks for sharing!
★★★★★
I can see this as a side for most anything! Simple and so flavorful!
Fresh, light, and simple; I can see this being a perfect dish for summer, especially if you needed to bring a dish to a potluck or picnic.