Betamax – Easy Air Fryer Version for Merienda or Midnight Snack

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What is Betamax?

Betamax is a well-known Filipino street food made from coagulated chicken blood, sliced into cubes, skewered, and cooked until firm and flavorful. Karaniwang binebenta ito sa mga ihawan at night markets, lalo na kapag gabi na at sabay-sabay ang cravings. This air fryer version keeps the familiar lasa of classic Betamax while making it more accessible for everyday home cooking.

Why Masarap?

The Betamax dish shines because of its bold, savory character. The cubes simmer in a soy sauce–vinegar mixture, allowing them to absorb layers of alat at asim. Once brushed with garlic oil and air-fried, the outside turns lightly crisp while the inside stays soft and creamy. Pares pa sa maanghang at mabawang sawsawan, each bite delivers the comforting flavors Pinoys look for in street food.

Best Enjoyed For

This betamax dish is best enjoyed as merienda or a midnight snack, especially when served fresh and hot.

Ingredients

For the Betamax:

• 2 lbs coagulated chicken blood
• 1 Knorr Chicken Cube
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup white vinegar
• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup garlic oil

For the dipping sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• ¾ cup white vinegar
• 2 teaspoons fish sauce
• 5 cloves garlic, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 5 Thai chili peppers, chopped
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

How to Cook Betamax

1. Cut the coagulated chicken blood into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking.
2. Place the cubes in a pot and add soy sauce, vinegar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. While simmering, spoon the liquid over the cubes so they absorb the seasoning evenly.
4. Add garlic powder, ground black pepper, and the chicken cube. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes.
5. Remove the cubes from the pot, leaving the liquid behind, and let them cool slightly.
6. Gently skewer the cubes using bamboo sticks.
7. Brush each skewer generously with garlic oil.
8. Arrange in a preheated air fryer and cook at 200°C, about 5 minutes per side, until lightly browned and aromatic.
9. Mix all dipping sauce ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
10. Serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Betamax is best served straight from the air fryer with spiced vinegar on the side. For a complete ihawan-style spread at home, it pairs well with Isaw and Kwek-Kwek—a trio that’s perfect for sharing during merienda or late-night food trips. To balance the savory flavors, enjoy it with a cold glass of Iced Coffee.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Best consumed within 2–3 days for optimal taste and texture.
• Reheat in the air fryer or pan with a little oil to bring back firmness.

Frequently Asked Questions

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