Filipino cuisine boasts a rich tapestry of flavors, reflecting its diverse cultural influences. This list highlights 20 of the most popular and celebrated dishes, categorized for easier navigation.
The national dish, featuring meat (usually chicken or pork) braised in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns. Variations abound, using different meats or adding coconut milk.
Chicken/Pork Adobo
A sour and savory soup, typically made with tamarind broth, meat (pork, beef, seafood), and vegetables. The sourness is key, often provided by tamarind, but other souring agents can be used.
Sinigang Recipe
A whole roasted pig, prized for its crispy skin and juicy meat. Often the centerpiece of celebrations, it's a truly special occasion dish.
Lechon Baboy
A rich and savory stew made with a peanut-based sauce, oxtail, and vegetables. Often served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) for an extra layer of flavor.
Kare Kare
A general term for noodle dishes, with numerous regional variations. Common ingredients include rice noodles, vegetables, and meat or seafood.
Pancit
A sizzling dish made from pig's face, typically including cheeks, ears, and snout. It's often served hot and spicy, a popular "pulutan" (beer snack).
Pork Sisig
A spicy pork stew cooked in coconut milk, chili peppers, and shrimp paste. This dish hails from the Bicol region, known for its spicy cuisine.
Bicol Express
Deep-fried pig's leg, resulting in incredibly crispy skin and tender meat. A truly indulgent dish, often served with dipping sauces.
Crispy Pata
Grilled pork belly, marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and pepper. The grilling imparts a smoky char, enhancing the flavor of the tender pork.
Inihaw na Liempo Recipe (Grilled Pork Belly)
A rich beef bone marrow soup, typically made with beef shanks and vegetables. It's a comforting and warming dish, perfect for colder weather.
Bulalo Recipe
Filipino spring rolls, filled with various ingredients and deep-fried. They can be savory or sweet, often served as appetizers.
Traditional Filipino Lumpia Recipe
Filipino sausage, with many regional variations in flavor and spice. Often served for breakfast, it can also be included in other dishes.
Longganisa
Milkfish, a popular fish in the Philippines, prepared in various ways. Grilling or baking are common methods.
Explore delicious milkfish recipes for every taste
Smoked fish, often milkfish, adding a smoky flavor profile. It's a common breakfast item.
Tinapa
Filipino ceviche, made with raw fish cured in vinegar and citrus juices. A refreshing and flavorful dish.
Kinilaw (Filipino-Style Marinated Fish) Recipe
A noodle soup, often with pork, shrimp, and vegetables. The broth is usually rich and flavorful.
Batchoy
A popular shaved ice dessert with various ingredients, including sweet beans, fruits, and leche flan. A refreshing treat, especially in hot weather.
Halo-Halo
A general term for rice cakes, with many regional variations in ingredients and preparation. These sweet treats are a staple in Filipino celebrations.
Kakanin
A warm dessert made with silken tofu, tapioca pearls, and brown sugar. Often sold by street vendors, it's a popular breakfast or snack.
Taho
Purple yam, used in various desserts and dishes, offering a unique sweet flavor and vibrant color. Ube halaya (jam) is a popular example.
