Mighty, Meaty Pinoy Dishes

The Philippines is big on meat dishes that is either stewed, broiled or char-grilled. For many, the option is neverending hence the availability of choices that could go for miles. However, one best thing about the many meat dishes of the country is that they are made with a combination of vegetables and fruits.

Yes, meat dishes normally involve a variety of ingredients that makes for the textured flavour of the dish itself. Philippine cuisine is always like that – big on ingredients, big on taste. Dishes are never short on taste hence the very reason why they are loved by locals and foreigners alike. One other thing is the colorful finished product. Truly, you are holistically satisfied with every Filipino dish you encounter.

Adobo. Made with chicken or pork or a combination of both, this antiquated dish is a favorite and a foremost candidate as everyone's favorite comfort food. Made with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, peppercorns and bay leaf, a cooked adobo gives off a fragrant smell that makes everyone hungry. As a variation, many add chunks of pineapple, sour mango and even pomelo pieces to their adobo. Have you tried one?

Kalderta. Mostly made of goat meat chunks, the kaldereta is a favorite for celebrations and fiestas. Not only is it rich in meat but more so, it has chunks of vegetables and fruits slices that makes it more delicious. Chunks of potatoes, carrots, green peas, pineapple and cheese cubes are just some of the flavorful add-ons that makes this stewed dish a hearty one for everyone to enjoy.  What's your best kaldereta recipe?

Kare-Kare. A chunky and nutty dish perfect for any given day. It is cooked using oxtail, chunks of vegetables and peanut butter. Quite weird? Well, for some, yes but once you take a bite, you'll be treated to an explosion of flavors unlike any other. Don't forget the shrimp paste on the side.

Though not entirely of Filipino origin still, many meat recipes have been steamed and loved by many. Steamed white chicken with mushroom pieces and potatoes on the side is perfect for a rainy day. Nowadays, broiled and boiled meats are steamed for an additional depth in flavor. Mix and match the flavors and create a food combination perfect for your cravings.

Truly, Philippine cuisine is a cut above the rest. It is not only for local palates but more so, it explores the international cravings as well. When in town, grab a bite and be mesmerized on the flavours of the country in every bite.

Philippine Cuisine – A Mouthwatering Dip to an Eccentric Cuisine

Restaurants all over the world serve varieties of dishes that tickle the taste buds of food lovers. From Western to Oriental cuisine, Italian to French, there is no stopping. In every event or situation, people find comfort and satisfaction in food.

Lo and behold, Philippine Cuisine, best known for its eccentricity and unequaled multi-cultural combination. At first, people may find the look of the Filipino dishes weird. But, surprisingly, the elements/ingredients, preparation and execution are incomparable to anything in the world. Let alone its taste. That’s what makes it fascinating.

It is just right to say that food preparation is a part of human nature. Hence, the journey to finding that satisfaction never ends. However, food enthusiasts have yet to chance upon a cuisine that is both distinctive and sophisticated.

In historical accounts, the Philippine cuisine has been shaped by colonialism. One is the Spanish colony led by Ferdinand Magellan. This colonization resulted to the introduction of Iberian ingredients, which is from a race that has an exquisite style of food preparation. Furthermore, the country is rich of cultural roots so as to explain the variety of dishes.

The frontier of Philippine cuisine is the Adobo. Celebrities and other well-known people, who have visited the country, are witnesses to this most lauded dish of the Philippines. Even the “High School Musical” kid wonder Zac Efron submits to its deliciousness and admits trying to cook one. He is still having difficulty saying Adobo though. 

Undeniably, the Philippine cuisine is not only stapled by Adobo. The country’s cuisine is as vast as the ocean. There is the ever famous “Lechon Baboy.” The country’s affair with pork is never-ending. But, Filipinos love seafood and fish dishes, too. It has a huge role in the Filipino diet. “Kinilaw,” fried “Bangus (Milkfish),” and “Crab Omelet” just to name a few.

Food is a necessity for all reasons there are. It is present during celebrations and festivities. The love for food has brought different cultures together. The Filipino food is one of the many cuisines that illustrate this togetherness. It is a tool that can vessel our love and appreciation to others.