How to Cook Pinoy Betamax (Dugo) Recipe & Tutorial

"Betamax" has a unique history that is not related to the video cassette format. In the Philippines, "betamax" refers to a popular street food made from skewered and grilled cubes of coagulated pork or chicken blood. The name "betamax" was coined from its resemblance to the size and shape of the Betamax video cassette tapes that were popular in the 1980s.

This street food is a common sight in many Filipino street food stalls or "turo-turo" eateries. It's often enjoyed with a dipping sauce made of vinegar, soy sauce, and spices. Personally I like the dipping sauce with some fresh chopped cucumbers for a refreshing taste.

Here's a simple recipe for making Betamax that yields 10-12 skewers:

Filipino Betamax Streetfood Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup pork or chicken blood, coagulated

1/2 cup vinegar

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

Bamboo skewers, soaked in water

Cooking Instructions:

1.Cut the coagulated blood into small cubes, around 1-inch in size.

2. In a bowl, combine vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create the marinade.

3. Add the blood cubes into the marinade and toss gently to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator.

4. Preheat a grill or a charcoal grill pan over medium-high heat.

5. Thread the marinated blood cubes onto the soaked bamboo skewers.

6. Grill the skewers, turning occasionally, until the blood cubes are cooked through and slightly charred on the edges, about 10-15 minutes.

7. Serve hot with vinegar dipping sauce on the side.

Enjoy this unique Filipino street food! Remember to be cautious with handling and cooking blood products, ensuring they are fully cooked through before consumption.