Every Friday, all year round, you’ll see ginisang munggo being sold in karinderyas and there is also a high possibility that it is the dish waiting for you in your dining area once you arrive home. 

The Philippines, being a predominantly Roman Catholic country, observes some of the traditions linked with the religion, one of those being abstinence. 

Historically, Filipinos avoid consuming meat every Friday to honor the day of Jesus Christ’s death and sacrifice– which led to mung beans as a substitute. 

Dubbed as a “poor man’s protein,” munggo serves as an affordable, hearty, and accessible alternative that provides the necessary nutrients without the need for expensive meat.

Often laced with chicharon and pork strips, ginisang munggo is paired with fried fish when it is served every Friday for the strict observance of religious penance. 

However, moderation is key; despite its benefits, munggo is high in purines, which can elevate uric acid levels and potentially trigger painful gout flare-ups.