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The Philippines is not only famous for its stunning natural landscapes and lush islands but also attracts visitors with its diverse and unique cuisine. When you go on a trip to the Philippines, make sure to take the opportunity to savor these irresistible local dishes.
Top Dishes You Shouldn't Miss When in the Philippines
1. Lumpia Spring Rolls
This is a type of spring roll prepared in the unique Filipino style. The ingredients include pork, tofu, vegetables, and spring roll wrappers. Once rolled into small pieces, the chef fries them in hot oil until golden brown. It's commonly served with fresh herbs and a dipping sauce. Its distinctive flavor will surely leave you wanting more.
2. Sinigang Soup
Sinigang is a sour soup made with either pork or fish, and it's a beloved dish in the Philippines. Tamarind and lime are essential ingredients that give the soup its signature tangy flavor. It also includes pork, coconut milk, and a variety of vegetables that complement the rich taste.
3. Adobo
This dish can be made with either chicken or pork as the main ingredient, marinated with garlic and soy sauce for several hours. The mixture is then simmered in water with vinegar, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Adobo is typically served with rice, and its unique flavor will leave a lasting impression.
4. Cassava Cake
A popular dessert in the Philippines, cassava cake is made from just two key ingredients: cassava and coconut milk. The cake has a smooth, soft texture and is not overly sweet, making it the perfect treat to enjoy with a hot cup of tea after a meal.
5. Afritada Chicken
Originally from Spain, this dish has been adapted by Filipinos to suit local tastes. Afritada chicken is quite popular in the Philippines, especially among Western tourists. The dish consists of chicken stewed with tomatoes, peppers, and onions, resulting in a flavorful and visually appealing meal. Don't forget to try this dish when you travel abroad to the Philippines.
6. Chicharon
Crispy pork skin, or Chicharon, is a beloved street food in the Philippines. You can find it anywhere, from high-end restaurants to local eateries. This dish is one of the few in the Philippines made with simple preparation. After cleaning and prepping, the pork skin is boiled until tender, sun-dried until crisp, and then fried until golden. A sprinkle of salt is all that's needed to enjoy this crunchy treat.
7. Filipino Spaghetti
This is a Filipino version of Italian spaghetti, made with a unique sweet-savory sauce. The sauce can be crafted from a blend of tomatoes, bananas, or condensed milk, giving it an unusual yet delightful flavor. The dish is often garnished with slices of sausage, making it both visually appealing and tasty.
8. Leche Flan
This is a delicious dessert made from egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk. Leche flan has a rich golden color and a sweeter, more intense flavor compared to its Spanish counterpart.
9. Tocino
Tocino is made from pieces of pork marinated for several hours in a mixture of sugar, salt, garlic, and oil. It is then fried in a hot pan until it develops a golden, crispy coating. If you encounter this dish for the first time, its stunning color and mouthwatering flavor will be impossible to resist.
10. Ukoy
Ukoy is a simple dessert loved by many in the Philippines. The main ingredients include whole shrimp, rice flour, cornstarch, and just enough water to make the batter. The mixture is then combined with sweet potato and fried until golden and crispy.
