How many islands do you think the Philippines is comprised of? If you guessed over 7,000, then you are correct. These unique islands and their rich history all lend a hand to creating robust Filipino cuisine. You can expect to see many various stews, soups, and meat dishes in their food. They also serve many delicious vegetable dishes to complement.
Let’s eat! Or, “Kain na” in Tagalog. Here’s your complete guide to popular Filipino dishes according to Chef’s Pencil and Wandering Wheatleys.
Soups & Stews
Bicol Express: Calling all coconut lovers to eat this stew. Coconut milk and coconut cream combine with pork belly and shoulder to create a heartwarming dish.
Bulalo: If you need comfort food, turn to bulalo. This stew is simmered to infuse flavors of onions, garlic, peppercorns, and salt with a shank of beef. Add cabbage, corn, and potatoes, and you are ready to enjoy.
Meats
Adobo: While this dish’s cooking may vary regionally, there’s no arguing that one ingredient is a must: vinegar. You may also find flavors of garlic, soy sauce, peppercorns, and bay leaf. Marinate your meat in these flavors before stewing for hours and serving over a bed of rice.
Sisig: While this dish is Filipino, it is world-renowned. You will enjoy the combination of cut-up pig’s ears, snout, cheeks, and belly sautéed with garlic, onion, green chilies, and vinegar. Serving the dish on a sizzling plate makes for an overall experience you’ll love.
Noodles
Pansit: This versatile dish was influenced by the Chinese. Indulge in this noodle dish at family gatherings or feasts. This dish is for you if you enjoy meat and noodles sautéed with garlic, onions, and soy sauce, then tossed with various vegetables.
Pancit Guisado: This is yet another dish that varies from region to region. This dish comes in huge portions, so be sure to order with your family or friends. These noodles are fried and can be thin, thick, or a combination of both.
Filipino food comes in many shapes and sizes, from their savory meats and noodles to their hearty stews. What dish do you need to try?