Introduction
Filipino cuisine is a fascinating blend of eastern and western influences. It is as diverse as the country’s 7,000 islands, with each region having its unique specialties. The Philippines is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of dishes to choose from. In this article, we will recommend some regional specialties in Filipino cuisine that you should try.
Northern Filipino specialties
The north of the Philippines is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. One of the most famous northern specialties is the Ilocano dish called bagnet. It is deep-fried pork belly that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Another delicious dish is pinakbet, which is a vegetable stew made with bitter melon, eggplant, tomato, and okra. It is usually cooked with bagoong (shrimp paste) and served with rice.
Central Filipino specialties
The central region of the Philippines is where you can find some of the most popular Filipino dishes. One of these dishes is lechon, which is a roasted whole pig that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is often served during special occasions and festivals. Another famous dish is the chicken inasal, which is a grilled chicken marinated in a mixture of vinegar, calamansi juice, garlic, and lemongrass.
Southern Filipino specialties
The southern region of the Philippines is where you can find some of the most unique and flavorful dishes. One of these dishes is the Tausug dish called tiyula itum, which is a black soup made with beef or goat and burnt coconut. It is usually served with rice and is known for its bold flavors. Another dish is the satti, which is a skewered meat dish similar to satay. It is usually served with a peanut sauce and rice.
Bicolano specialties
The Bicol region of the Philippines is known for its spicy dishes. One of these dishes is the Bicol express, which is a spicy pork stew made with coconut milk and chili peppers. It is usually served with rice. Another popular dish is the laing, which is made with taro leaves, coconut milk, and chili peppers.
Conclusion
Filipino cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors and textures. Each region has its unique specialties that you should try. Whether you prefer hearty and flavorful dishes from the north, popular dishes from the central region, unique and spicy dishes from the south, or fiery dishes from the Bicol region, Filipino cuisine has something for everyone. So, go ahead and explore the rich and diverse flavors of Filipino cuisine.
