My grand mother's signature dish

(My cousins with our grandparents)

Every family has their own “signature dish” It is a family tradition that has been practiced for years. Normally this dish is simple, anyone can do it but when it comes to flavor the taste is very different. It has a distinct flavor that others cannot imitate. Traditionally these “signature” dishes are passed on from one generation to another generation. It must be preserved and must maintain its original flavor for it to become a true family “signature” dish.

(This is my cousin Missy! with our chef uncle Dann)
When it comes to “signature dishes” my grandmother’s “missy” is the way to go! What exactly is “missy”? Named after my grandmother’s favorite granddaughter Missy, it is a combination of minced ground pork, garlic, red onions, seasoning and salted Chinese beans. What makes it so special is its sauce. It’s very salty yet, when you pair it with old rice or a hot pandesal the saltiness of the dish disappears and a sudden burst of flavors explodes in your mouth.

This dish may seem complicated due to its name. But I assure you, once you have the freshest ingredients and the right utensils, it is the easiest dish to prepare. All you need for this dish are the following: Ground pork, temple beans (Chinese salted beans), red onions, garlic and seasoning (salt and pepper). To prepare this dish is very easy! In a wok pan sauté you red onions and garlic, wait until light brown. Once that is done add in your Chinese beans. Using

(My version of my grandmother's "missy")
the back of a spoon, mash the beans. This is to even out all the flavors in your dish. After giving the beans a good mash add your meat, make sure it gets mixed well then simmer for 20-35 minutes. Check regularly if the meat is getting dry. If it does, just add in some water and that will give it a good sauce consistency. The simmering process is to allow the beans and the other ingredients to incorporate into your meat. After 35 minutes, season to taste with salt and

pepper and plate your dish.
This dish may be very tedious, but trust me once you have done everything in order and you followed every procedure required. All the hard work will payoff! I love this dish because of its simplicity and you can prepare this dish any time of the year. Despite the fact that this dish is packed with flavor, it is also very affordable and perfect for the whole family. I assure you this dish will not disappoint you! This recipe has lived for centuries in our family and will always be a family tradition. So why not try this “signature” dish of ours with your family! Who knows it might be a big hit? Continue to spread this wonderful dish to everyone so that the legacy will live on and on.

(The Eiaw Family)