Kinilaw, Pigs, and Carabao: A Farmhouse Visit

My wife and I recently visited her uncle's farmhouse.He'd called earlier,excitedly telling us that one of my mother pigs had given birth.I was thrilled—and also hungry.I had a craving for kinilaw,a Filipino dish of marinated raw fish,and I knew the perfect accompaniment:tuba,a coconut wine.

So,before heading to the farm,I stopped by the market and bought half a kilo of fresh fish for 100 pesos.The anticipation of the kinilaw and the farm visit fueled our journey.We arrived at the farmhouse to find her uncle already there,ready to greet us.

"Let's make kinilaw!"I announced,pulling out my tuba.My wife's uncle readily offered a knife and chopping board,and I set to work.The process of preparing kinilaw is a simple yet satisfying ritual. First,I cleaned the fish meticulously, removing the scales and guts.

Then,I carefully chopped it into bite-sized pieces.

Next came the aromatic ingredients:thinly sliced red onions,fresh calamansi (Filipino limes),fragrant ginger,fiery chili peppers,and,of course,the vinegar. I added a pinch of salt and ajinomoto (MSG) to enhance the flavors,carefully balancing the tangy,spicy,and savory notes.

The aroma of the kinilaw filled the air as I mixed everything together, a culinary symphony of fresh ingredients. The vibrant colors—the translucent fish, the deep red onions, the bright green calamansi—were as captivating as the tantalizing scent.

But my visit wasn't solely about culinary delights.The primary reason for our trip was to check on my pregnant pig.The excitement of the visit was palpable.I was eager to see the piglets and assess their health.My wife's uncle,who helps care for my pigs,was equally enthusiastic.As we approached the pigpen,the soft grunts of the piglets filled the air.There they were—twelve healthy piglets,nestled beside their mother.It was a heartwarming sight,a testament to the cycle of life and the rewards of diligent care.

This is also a mother pig,now she is pregnant 2 months this month of February.

This pig also is 2 months old. This pig is intended for my son's birthday on April 24.This coming April.

My responsibilities didn't end with the pigs.I also had to check on my carabao,a water buffalo.I wanted to ensure it was healthy and not losing weight.A healthy carabao is crucial for our family's livelihood.

After tending to my animals,it was time to relax.The kinilaw,now perfectly marinated,was ready.We sat down with my wife's uncle,enjoying the refreshing kinilaw and the potent tuba.The conversation flowed as freely as the tuba, ranging from the piglets' birth to plans for the future.It was a simple yet fulfilling day,a blend of farm chores,culinary satisfaction,and the warmth of family and kinship.

The taste of the fresh kinilaw,the sight of the healthy piglets,and the comforting presence of my wife's uncle made this farmhouse visit a truly memorable experience.The day ended with a sense of contentment,a quiet satisfaction that comes from connecting with nature,family,and the simple joys of life.

Thank you for stopping by!I hope you enjoy my story in the farm house.

[Lead picture edited Canva]

@atemuz24