1. Adobo
Considered a national dish, Adobo features meat, often chicken or pork, braised in a savory and tangy sauce of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves until tender.
Top 8 Dishes to Try in Philippines
Filipino cuisine presents a dynamic blend of flavors, characterized by a distinct balance of sweet, sour, and salty notes. This culinary tradition is a flavorful fusion, shaped by indigenous ingredients alongside influences from Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American cultures. Common ingredients such as garlic, onions, ginger, vinegar, and soy and fish sauces form the foundation of many dishes, often highlighting a unique interplay of tastes, where sweet elements may playfully counter salty ones.
The Philippines offers diverse dining experiences to suit every budget. For those seeking affordable and authentic local flavors, street food stalls are plentiful, offering quick bites like grilled skewers and fish balls. Local eateries, known as carinderias, provide budget-friendly, home-cooked Filipino meals. Fast-food chains also cater to quick and inexpensive dining needs.
Mid-range restaurants offer a more extensive menu and comfortable ambiance for a moderate price. For a more sophisticated experience, fine dining establishments provide luxurious settings and exquisite culinary creations, reflecting both traditional and modern Filipino cuisine.
2. Sinigang
This beloved Filipino soup is recognized by its distinct sour taste, typically from tamarind, complemented by various meats or seafood and an assortment of vegetables.
3. Lumpia
Filipino spring rolls come in different forms; Lumpiang Shanghai are small, crispy fried rolls with minced pork, while Lumpiang Sariwa are fresh rolls filled with sautéed vegetables and meat.
4. Pancit
A diverse category of noodle dishes, Pancit often includes stir-fried egg noodles with vegetables and meat, like Pancit Canton, or thick rice noodles with a rich seafood sauce.
5. Kare-Kare
A rich peanut stew, Kare-Kare typically includes oxtail or other cuts of meat and various vegetables, traditionally served with a side of savory shrimp paste (bagoong).
6. Halo-Halo
A popular cold dessert, Halo-Halo combines shaved ice, sweet beans, jellies, fruits, and milk, often topped with a scoop of ice cream.
7. Sisig
Originating from Pampanga, Sisig is a sizzling dish of finely chopped and seasoned pork, often including parts like ears and cheeks, known for its crispy texture and savory-tangy flavor.
8. Chicken Inasal
A grilled chicken dish originating from Bacolod, Chicken Inasal is marinated in a special blend of calamansi, vinegar, and annatto oil, resulting in a smoky and juicy flavor.
