One of the first things that everyone would like to do while visiting a new location unquestionably enjoys the local cuisine. And one of the things you absolutely must do when visiting the Philippines is to sample the local cuisine. You will appreciate exploring the rich and varied cuisine and culture of the Philippines. Filipino cuisine, which has been influenced by Spanish, Indian, Chinese, and Malay Kingdom cuisines, is a unique culinary experience.
Adobo
Without the well-known Adobo at the top, no list of the top 10 Filipino foods can start. The unofficial national dish of the Philippines is pork or chicken which has been cooked with soy sauce, vinegar, a tonne of black pepper, and smashed garlic. As it was later given the Spanish moniker, adobo is one of the few meals in the Philippines with local origins. This mouthwatering dish is as authentically Filipino as you can get, and rice is the only appropriate side dish. Adobo is cooked differently by each family in the Philippines, hence the flavour may vary slightly from place to place.
Lumpia
Would you want to try some Filipino food for lunch? Test Lumpia. This delicacy, which is a wonderful deep-fried spring roll, was inspired by Chinese cuisine. The roll is filled with a combination of minced meat and chopped veggies. It is the most delicious lunch dish you will ever eat when served with the proper sauces. You will never look at spring rolls the same way again after having this meal, which is unquestionably a classic Filipino dish. It plays a significant role in Philippine cuisine.
Inasal
Are you a fan of roast chicken? You are therefore in for a treat! There is nothing like the inasal that the people of the Visayan islands have perfected. The chicken is roasting over a fire while being basted with annatto oil after being marinated with ginger, lemongrass, and calamansi juice. Inasal, a dish from the Philippines that is typically served with rice, soy sauce dip, and liquid chicken fat, is unquestionably one that visitors shouldn’t miss at all.
Pancit
This is another delectable Philippine dish with Chinese influences, sometimes known as “pancit.” Noodles are combined with any additional meat or veggies in this straightforward recipe. The name “pancit” comes from the Hokkien phrase “pian e sit,” which translates to “something conveniently cooked.” Despite being straightforward, it is flavorful and you will undoubtedly enjoy every bite.
Keep Reading
Sinigang
Sinigang is a classic dish from the Philippines that is sour and salty and is frequently linked to tamarind. Stew ingredients include spinach, eggplant, tomatoes, onions, ginger, and fish sauce in this recipe. Pork, beef, fish, or shrimp are all acceptable meat options for this dish. Whichever option you select, the end product is always a delectable stew that can be served with rice or consumed on its own as a soup.
Cassava cake
Nothing comes close to the well-known cassava cake when it comes to traditional Filipino sweets. Coconut milk and freshly grated cassava flour are used to make the traditional Filipino dessert. The cake is usually baked over embers, giving it a flavour that is unique from that of regular cakes. The beautiful thing about cassava is that you can indulge guilt-free because it is recognised to have so many health advantages.
Arroz Caldo
If you’re seeking healthful food in the Philippines, arroz caldo, which has Spanish and Chinese elements, is a fantastic option. This delicious dish’s name in English directly translates to “rice soup.” Arroz caldo is a rice and chicken porridge simmered in broth with chives, ginger, and occasionally saffron, much like the congee of Vietnam. There is nothing better than a bowl of delectable arroz caldo if you want a meal that soothes your tummy and provides health advantages.
Chicharon
A dish of deep-fried pork crackling called chicharon was brought to the Philippines from Andalucia in Spain. It resembles the crunchy, deep-fried pork rind rectangles known as chicharron in Mexico quite a bit. Instead of salsa, chicharon is typically dipped in coconut vinegar in the Philippines. One of the most well-liked Filipino snacks to pair with beer is this meal. Locals have experimented with the meal over time, coming up with new variants. However, nothing compares to the authentic chicharon.
Lechon
Lechon is likely one of the most common foods in the Philippines that are served on all important occasions. Another dish with Spanish influences, there must be enough lechon at every fiesta in the nation for everyone. This dish is a perfectly cooked roast suckling pig. The tasty, crunchy skin is adored by all. Find a restaurant that serves classic lechon if you want to sample one of the most well-known authentic Filipino delicacies.
Kinilaw
The frequent availability of fish and other seafood is one of the nicest aspects of visiting the beach cities and villages in the Philippines. When visiting this seaside paradise, sample some kinilaw, an open-flamed ceviche cooked in vinegar. Even though kinilaw can be as straightforward as raw fish with vinegar dressing on top, some restaurants also serve the meal with calamansi juice, soy sauce, shrimp, chunks of pig belly, salted eggs, and onions. Add kinilaw to your list of the top Filipino dishes.
