Philippines

What are some common spices and herbs used in Filipino cooking?

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Introduction

Filipino cuisine is known for its rich flavors, and one of the ways that this is achieved is through the use of aromatic herbs and spices. Filipino cooking makes use of a wide variety of spices and herbs, each with its unique flavor and aroma. In this article, we will explore some of the most common spices and herbs used in Filipino cooking.

Garlic

Garlic is a ubiquitous ingredient in Filipino cooking, and it is used in almost every savory dish. Its pungent flavor and aroma can add depth and complexity to dishes such as adobo, sinigang, and tinola. Garlic can be used fresh or dried, and it is often crushed or minced and added to dishes during the cooking process. Some Filipino recipes even call for frying garlic until it is crispy and using it as a garnish.

Ginger

Ginger is another staple ingredient in Filipino cuisine. It has a slightly sweet, spicy, and warm flavor that can add a kick to dishes such as tinola, arroz caldo, and pancit. Ginger can be used in its fresh or dried form, and it is often sliced or grated and added to stir-fries, soups, and stews. It is also a popular ingredient in Filipino desserts such as gingerbread and ginger cookies.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass has a fresh, citrusy flavor that can add a bright and tangy note to Filipino dishes such as sinigang and pinakbet. It is often used in its fresh form, where the stalks are chopped or bruised to release their flavor. Lemongrass can also be used to infuse flavor into soups and broths and can be found in many Filipino street foods such as skewered chicken and pork barbecue.

Bay leaves

Bay leaves are a fragrant herb that adds a subtle, earthy flavor to dishes such as adobo and menudo. They are often used in their dried form, and a few leaves are added to the dish during the cooking process. Bay leaves can also be used to flavor rice dishes such as arroz caldo and paella.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that has a warm, slightly bitter taste. It is commonly used in Filipino dishes such as chicken tinola and kare-kare. It is often added as a powder during the cooking process, or fresh turmeric root can be grated and added to dishes. Turmeric is also used in Filipino desserts such as turmeric cakes and candies.

In conclusion, the use of spices and herbs is an integral part of Filipino cuisine, and it is what makes Filipino dishes so flavorful and aromatic. From garlic to ginger to lemongrass, bay leaves, and turmeric, Filipino cooking offers a wide range of exciting and delicious flavors to explore.

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