The Philippines is a country known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine. When it comes to food, Filipinos love to gather around the table and share a meal together. With the rich diversity of cultures that make up the country, there are countless dishes to try. From savory and spicy to sweet and creamy, Filipino recipes offer something for every palate.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Philippines with 21 delicious Filipino recipes for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast dish, a flavorful main course, or a sweet dessert, we’ve got you covered. From classic dishes like Adobo Chicken and Sinigang na Baboy to modern twists on old favorites, these recipes showcase the best of Filipino cuisine. So sit back, grab a fork, and get ready to taste the flavors of the Philippines!
Adobo Chicken
A classic Filipino dish, Adobo Chicken is a flavorful and savory recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich soy sauce-based marinade and crispy texture, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white)
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Cooking oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, water, garlic, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the chicken until browned and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice or enjoy as a snack!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Sinigang na Baboy
Sinigang na Baboy is a popular Filipino dish that combines the rich flavor of pork with the tanginess of tomatoes and tamarind. This recipe is a classic variation that uses baby pork (pork belly) as the main ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 1 kilogram baby pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup tamarind broth or tamarind paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork pieces, tomatoes, tamarind broth or paste, garlic, onion, and fish sauce (if using).
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until pork is tender.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Kare-Kare
Kare-kare is a popular Filipino stew made with peanuts, vegetables, and meat or seafood. This recipe is a twist on the classic dish, using chicken for added protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups peanut butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened.
4. Add the peanut butter, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lechon Kawali
Lechon Kawali is a popular Filipino dish that’s essentially a deep-fried pork belly with a crunchy, caramelized skin. This recipe gives it a flavorful twist by marinating the pork in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices before cooking.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and black pepper. Add the pork belly pieces and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
3. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Fry the pork belly pieces until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with steamed rice and your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pancit Canton
Pancit Canton is a beloved Filipino dish made with stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and your choice of protein. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Pancit Canton noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken or pork, diced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook Pancit Canton noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken or pork; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lumpiang Shanghai
Lumpiang Shanghai: A Classic Filipino Spring Roll Recipe
These savory spring rolls are a staple in many Filipino households. With a crispy exterior and flavorful filling, Lumpiang Shanghai is a delicious snack or appetizer that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, carrots, scallions, and garlic.
2. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) and mix well.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you.
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Fry the spring rolls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
9. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Tinolang Manok
Tinolang Manok is a comforting and flavorful Filipino soup made with chicken, ginger, onions, and spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3 lbs), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and patis (fish sauce) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onions until translucent.
2. Add the sliced ginger and minced garlic; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Pour in the water and add fish sauce (if using); bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and patis (fish sauce).
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Bicol Express
Experience the bold flavors of the Philippines with this iconic noodle dish, Bicol Express! This spicy and savory recipe is a staple in many Filipino households.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pancit noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped pork or chicken
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons chili flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pancit noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped pork or chicken; cook until browned.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked noodles; stir-fry until well combined with sauce.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dinuguan
Dinuguan is a popular Filipino dish that combines the rich flavors of pork, vinegar, and blood, making it a hearty and comforting meal. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or pork spare ribs, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup pork blood (or substitute with soy sauce)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, combine the pork pieces, vinegar, water, and pork blood.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice or fried noodles.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Laing
Laing is a classic Trinidadian dish that warms the soul. This recipe combines potatoes, onions, peppers, and spices to create a flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cold evening.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
Р2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or substitute with 1-2 jalape̱os), chopped
– 1 cup of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until translucent (5 minutes).
3. Add the potatoes, peppers, salt, black pepper, and curry powder. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the garlic and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sisig
Sisig is a popular Filipino dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or snack. This recipe combines the flavors of crispy pork, onions, and chili peppers to create a mouth-watering treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound pork face (such as ears and snout), boiled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon calamansi or lime juice
– 1-2 chili peppers, diced (optional)
– 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a pan, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add the boiled pork, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the pork is crispy.
3. Stir in calamansi or lime juice and chili peppers (if using).
4. Serve hot with a sprinkle of cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bulalo
A classic Filipino comfort food, Bulalo is a flavorful and nutritious soup made with beef bones, vegetables, and noodles. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef bones (shank or short ribs)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup noodles (egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Optional: bok choy, spinach, or other leafy greens for added nutrition
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the beef bones for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the roasted beef bones, potatoes, cabbage, noodles, beef broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a dash of vinegar (optional).
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Arroz Caldo
Arroz Caldo is a comforting and flavorful rice porridge that’s perfect for any meal or snack. This simple recipe combines the warmth of chicken broth, the richness of vegetables, and the creaminess of eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
2. Add the chicken broth, mixed vegetables, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
3. Stir in the beaten eggs. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are scrambled.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Inasal
Inasal is a popular grilled chicken dish from the Philippines that’s infused with the bold flavors of vinegar, garlic, and spices. This recipe brings you the authentic taste of this beloved Filipino favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3 lbs), cut into 8 pieces
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon annatto seeds (or substitute with paprika)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces, vinegar, garlic, annatto seeds, salt, and black pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
3. Brush grill with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice and a sprinkle of patis (fish sauce) or calamansi (Filipino citrus) if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork BBQ
Get ready to fall in love with this tender and flavorful pork BBQ recipe that’s perfect for a weekend gathering or a casual dinner party. With its rich, sweet, and tangy flavors, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in the slow cooker and pour in the BBQ sauce.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight (6-12 hours).
6. When done, remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Halo-Halo
Halo-halo, a Filipino favorite, is a sweet and refreshing dessert perfect for hot summer days. This colorful treat is made with shaved ice, various fruits, and creamy evaporated milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shaved ice
– 1 cup mixed fruits (such as langka, kaong, jackfruit, and beansprouts)
– 1/2 cup sweetened plantains, sliced
– 1/4 cup nata de coco (coconut gelatin)
– 1/4 cup pinipig (pounded rice crisps)
– 1/2 cup evaporated milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– Ice cubes
– Whipped cream and fruit toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shaved ice, mixed fruits, plantains, nata de coco, and pinipig.
2. Drizzle with evaporated milk and sprinkle with sugar.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately, or place in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to chill before serving.
5. Top with whipped cream and additional fruit toppings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and serve.
Enjoy your cool and creamy Halo-Halo!
Ube Halaya
Ube halaya, a traditional Filipino jam made from purple yams, is a sweet and creamy treat that’s perfect for topping toast, rice cakes, or using as a filling. This recipe uses fresh ube, coconut milk, and sugar to create a rich and flavorful spread.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ube (purple yam), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the ube cubes, sugar, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the ube is tender (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Add the coconut milk and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and reduced slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leche Flan
A classic Filipino dessert, Leche Flan is a rich and creamy custard topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. This recipe yields a smooth and velvety texture, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
6. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bibingka
A classic Filipino dessert, Bibingka is a savory and sweet rice cake flavored with coconut and ube (purple yam). Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1/2 cup grated coconut
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– ube halaya (purple yam jam) for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, grated coconut, sugar, melted butter, salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Beat in eggs until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Top with ube halaya and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Puto
Puto Recipe: A Filipino Steamed Rice Cake Delight
Puto is a popular Filipino snack or dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe yields a soft, fluffy, and sweet rice cake that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add in the water and mix until the rice mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. If using grated coconut, fold it into the rice mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into small molds or cups, filling them about 3/4 of the way full.
5. Steam the puto over boiling water for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and fluffy.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mango Float
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this classic Filipino dessert, Mango Float! This creamy and sweet treat is a perfect combination of graham crackers, whipped cream, and juicy mango.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Pour in the melted butter and stir until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
5. Fold in the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Spread half of the whipped cream mixture over the crust.
7. Arrange the diced mango on top of the whipped cream.
8. Top with the remaining whipped cream and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake dessert!
Conclusion
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of the Philippines with these 21 delicious recipes! From classic dishes like Adobo Chicken and Sinigang na Baboy, to savory favorites like Kare-Kare and Lechon Kawali, there’s something for every occasion. Satisfy your cravings with sweet treats like Halo-Halo and Ube Halaya, or try traditional desserts like Leche Flan and Bibingka. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a show-stopping centerpiece, this collection has got you covered.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
