Top 9 Must-Try Dishes in Filipino Cuisine

Filipino cuisine entices travelers with its distinctive flavors and a wide array of dishes, often referred to as a "Harmonious Blend of East and West." Among these are delectable dishes that every visitor must experience at least once.

1. Chicken Inasal

Chicken Inasal is a must-try dish when exploring Filipino cuisine. This grilled chicken specialty hails from the Visayas region—one of the three main geographical areas in the Philippines. Chicken Inasal captivates diners with its signature golden hue, marinated in a blend of vinegar, lemongrass, garlic, and ginger. The chicken is brushed with oil to achieve its vibrant color and unique spicy flavor.

2. Bulalo

Bulalo is a hearty soup made from beef shanks and bone marrow, simmered to perfection for a rich and flavorful broth. The dish features tender, succulent meat and is often served with cabbage, green beans, onions, and corn. A staple during chilly winter evenings, Bulalo is a beloved specialty of the Luzon region.

3. Lechon

Lechon is a beloved dish among Filipinos, featuring a whole roasted suckling pig. To enhance its flavor, the pig is stuffed with a mix of aromatic ingredients like lemongrass, tamarind, garlic, onions, and chives. It is then skewered on a large bamboo stick and roasted over an open flame until the skin turns crispy and golden. Once cooked, the meat is carved into bite-sized pieces. The reddish-brown, crispy skin is a crowd favorite due to its crunchiness and rich taste.

Traditionally, this dish is served on a large platter and is a staple at significant events such as weddings and Christmas celebrations.

4. Sinigang na Baboy

Sinigang na Baboy is a sour and savory soup in Filipino cuisine, made with pork and tamarind for its signature tangy flavor. It also includes ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, okra, radish, water spinach, and green chili peppers. Families often customize the dish by adding their preferred ingredients to suit their tastes.

5. Leche Flan

Leche Flan is a renowned Filipino dessert, similar to Vietnamese flan, crafted from eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla. Traditionally, it takes an oval shape (unlike the round version in other countries) due to the use of llanera molds. This dessert is best served chilled and is a staple at significant events and social gatherings in the Philippines.

6. Lumpiang Shanghai

Lumpiang Shanghai is a crispy spring roll, a popular snack in Filipino cuisine, adapted from Chinese spring rolls. It comes in various versions, but the Shanghai variant stands out with its savory filling of ground pork, beef, carrots, onions, and minced shrimp, served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. Lumpiang Shanghai is widely available at food stalls across the country and is often served during special occasions and festivals.

7. Tortang Talong

Tortang Talong is a delightful blend of grilled eggplant and eggs. The eggplant is dipped in a beaten egg mixture and fried until crispy. Locals enjoy it with rice, tomato sauce, or banana ketchup. This versatile dish is suitable for any meal, from a light breakfast to a hearty dinner.

8. Bibingka

Bibingka is a traditional rice cake made from rice flour mixed with water and baked in clay pots. To enhance its aroma and prevent burning, banana leaves are placed at the bottom of the pots. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include additional ingredients. Today, it is prepared with milk, eggs, coconut milk, sugar, butter, or topped with grated cheese, salted duck eggs, shredded coconut, and a mix of sweet and savory toppings.

9. Lechon Kawali

According to Mytour.vn

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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide