Filipino Food and Recipes

By Alberto Quintero

Food from the Philippines is a diverse mixture of heritage and culture, thus making it unique from the other Asian foods. With a mix of contemporary and historical Asian traditions and Western influences added with Polynesian flare, Filipino food is bounteous, flavorful, indulgent, and festive, typically going up to five meals a day. Traditionally it is served in such a way that it is a feast not only to the body, but the eyes as well. Filipino food is alluring in its aromas and pleasing to the tongue.

Something that makes Filipino food different from other Asian cuisines is that they typically rely on spices and aromatic seasonings, while Filipino recipes stress daring combinations of sweet, salty and sour flavors. Each dish is emphasized by contrasting flavors. A salted fish may be paired up with a sweet porridge or sweet and sour melon dipped in salt. For those who have visited the Philippines before they know that principle brings drama and variety to each meal. Our Filipino recipes bring the flavorful and exotic tastes of the Philippines to your home.

The Tagalog word for breakfast is agahan or almusal. For many Filipino families, breakfast is the largest meal of the day. Any leftover rice is cooked fried with garlic and onions beside sweet sausages and cured meats for a filling morning meal. Tanghalian, or lunch, is another important meal in Filipino tradition. This is a prime prospect to enjoy a hearty meal of savory chicken, pig, beef and fish dishes or on-the-go street foods. For a mid-afternoon snack (minandal or minidal) there are a variety of popular Filipino treats. There are pulutan or sweet treat finger foods to share. Minadal is a widely welcomed break from the busy activities during the day.

Our recipes have been carefully chosen to appeal to not only our tastes but our readers tastes as well (yes you!). These recipes are some of our favorites to serve to not only our families but guests too. We have played with some recipes to get the most flavors and savory tastes from them. Most of all our input comes from you our readers! If you have a tip on the preparation or a recipe you would like to share send it in. We love to hear from you and try new recipes. Help us share the best of the Philippines with everyone and make this site the best source on the Philippines.

Try these recipes crispy papa, sinuglaw