Embark on a culinary adventure through the vibrant and diverse flavours of the Philippines. From savoury to sweet, Filipino cuisine offers a rich tapestry of dishes that reflect the country’s unique cultural influences. Here are some must-try Filipino dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

Adobo: The National Dish

Adobo is a Filipino classic and the unofficial national dish that’s even popular in fast food in The Philippines. This savoury and slightly tangy dish features meat (often chicken or pork) marinated and simmered in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices.

Sinigang: Comforting Tamarind Soup

Sinigang is a sour tamarind-based soup that showcases Filipino love for contrasting flavours. It typically includes pork, shrimp, or beef, combined with a variety of vegetables like water spinach, radish, and eggplant.

Lechon: Roast Pig Extravaganza

A centrepiece of Filipino celebrations, lechon is a whole roasted pig with crispy skin and tender, succulent meat. Often reserved for special occasions, lechon is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Kare-Kare: Peanut Stew Delight

Kare-Kare is a savoury stew made with oxtail, tripes, and vegetables, simmered in a rich peanut sauce. It’s often served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) on the side for an extra kick.

Adidas: Grilled Chicken Feet

Embrace the adventurous side of Filipino street food with Adidas, grilled marinated chicken feet. Often enjoyed with a side of spicy vinegar dipping sauce, this dish offers a unique and flavorful experience.

Chicken Inasal: Grilled Chicken Paradise

Chicken Inasal
Chicken Inasal – Image via Flickr

Originating from Bacolod, Chicken Inasal is marinated, skewered, and grilled chicken with a distinctive savoury-sweet flavour. It’s often served with garlic rice, soy sauce, and a side of sinamak (spiced vinegar) even at places such as Chowking Philippines for a quick meal.