Homemade Fish Tocino

(Updated) If you’re looking for a delicious new way to enjoy seafood, Fish Tocino might just become your next favorite dish. A delightful twist on the traditional pork tocino, this version uses fish for a lighter yet equally satisfying meal. Sweet, savory, and packed with flavor, fish tocino is easy to prepare at home and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even a quick snack.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make homemade fish tocino from scratch — no complicated ingredients, just pure goodness!

What is Fish Tocino?

Fish tocino is a Filipino-style cured fish, seasoned with a blend of sugar, salt, spices, and sometimes a bit of natural coloring to give it that iconic reddish hue. It’s typically marinated for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully soak into the fish, resulting in a sweet, savory, and tender delicacy that’s perfect with garlic rice and a fried egg — a classic silog meal!

Compared to the traditional pork version, fish tocino offers a lighter and healthier option without sacrificing the familiar tocino flavor we all love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 500 grams boneless fish fillet (tilapia, bangus, or any firm white fish)
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (for extra tenderness and sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (for color and flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Cooking oil (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish
Rinse the fish fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Slice into bite-sized pieces or strips, depending on your preference.

2. Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, vinegar, soy sauce, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.

3. Marinate the Fish
Place the fish pieces into the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best results.

4. Cook the Fish Tocino
Heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated fish pieces and cook gently. Let the marinade reduce into a glaze while the fish cooks. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the fish. Cook until the fish is nicely caramelized and cooked through.

5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your homemade fish tocino with garlic fried rice and sunny-side-up eggs for a hearty, satisfying meal. You can also enjoy it with a side of fresh tomatoes or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.

Tips for Perfect Fish Tocino

• Choose firm fish: Soft, flaky fish might fall apart during cooking. Stick with firmer types like bangus, tilapia, or cream dory.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet version, simply reduce the amount of sugar.
• Add a little spice: A dash of chili flakes can add a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.

Why You’ll Love Making Fish Tocino

Homemade fish tocino is not only tastier than store-bought versions — it’s also free from preservatives and additives. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to include more fish in your diet while keeping your meals exciting and flavorful.

Whether you’re preparing it for breakfast or packing it for lunch, fish tocino is a versatile dish that fits perfectly into any meal plan.