Filipino cuisines - There is little in this world as comforting as the taste of home cooked food you loved growing up. Whatever your local dialect is, we know that one-of-a-kind remarks of "masarap," "lami," or "naimas" only a brothy bowl of Bulalo can bring.

Filipino cuisine is a vibrant and diverse culinary tapestry reflecting rich history, cultural diversity, and uniquely Filipino flavors. It serves as a significant cornerstone of Filipino identity, weaving together a wide array of influences, ingredients, and cooking techniques.

Each region and cultural group in the Philippines has its star. Ilocanos love their longganisa, Kapampangans their sisig, and Bicolanos love the umami of laing. In this article, we embark on a delightful gastronomic adventure through the various regions of the Philippines, uncovering the essence of Filipino culinary heritage.

Read more: Discover the Best Beach Resorts in Cebu, Philippines: Find Your Perfect Vacation Spot

The history of Filipino cuisine is intricately intertwined with the country's colonial past. The Spanish colonization of the Philippines, which lasted for over 300 years, made a mark in Filipino culinary traditions. Spanish ingredients like tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and garlic were introduced, as well as cooking techniques such as frying and sautéing. This influence can be seen in dishes like adobo (marinated meat), caldereta (stewed meat), and paella.

Another significant influence in Filipino cuisine traces back to the Hokkien region in China. Some of the well-loved Filipino cuisine staples, such as pancit (noodles), lumpia (spring rolls), and siopao (steamed buns), come from the influence of ancient Chinese traders.

But one of the lesser-known influences is the Malay influence in Filipino cuisine. Some of our earliest techniques, evident in dishes like sinigang and paksiw, showcase Malay influences from prehistoric times.

Before the arrival of foreign influences, the pre-colonial Philippines had a rich culinary heritage of its own. The indigenous inhabitants relied heavily on rice, fish, root crops, and tropical fruits as staple foods.

Various cooking methods, like grilling, steaming in bamboo, and boiling in clay pots, were among the earliest cooking techniques in the archipelago. The famous inasal and kinilaw are some of the earliest iterations of Filipino cuisine!

The Philippines, an archipelago, is home to various vegetables and climates. These geographical variations resulted in some of the most colorful cuisines in the world! Each region prides itself on its culinary expertise and its star ingredient.

This world-famous dish deserves the number-one spot! You already know how influencers and celebrities from all parts of the globe fall in love with Adobo.

Adobo, often considered the national dish of the Philippines, is a flavorful stew made with meat (usually chicken or pork) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. Its history can be traced back to the Spanish colonial era when preservation techniques were used to prevent spoilage.

The tangy and savory flavors of adobo have made it a beloved staple in Filipino households, and its versatility has led to various regional adaptations.

You know you’re up for a great party when you see a lechon on the table! Lechon is a centerpiece of celebrations in the Philippines. It is a whole roasted pig, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, resulting in crispy skin and succulent meat. Lechon showcases the influence of Spanish cuisine and is often the star attraction during fiestas and special occasions

This sour soup is another favorite of many. Sinigang is a comforting sour soup made with tamarind or other souring agents, combined with vegetables and meat (commonly pork or shrimp). This dish reflects the Filipino love for sour flavors and is a popular choice for family meals and gatherings.

Every party is complete with Lumpiang Shanghai! Lumpia is Filipino-style spring rolls, typically filled with a combination of ground meat, vegetables, and sometimes shrimp. These crispy and flavorful rolls are often served as appetizers or finger foods during parties and gatherings.

Another Filipino cuisine classic that dates back to pre colonial times, Kare-Kare is a hearty stew made with oxtail, tripe, or meat, cooked in a rich peanut sauce, and served with an array of vegetables. The dish has a distinctive flavor and is often enjoyed with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste).

Pancit refers to a variety of Filipino noodle dishes, each with its own regional specialty. Pancit Canton, Pancit Bihon, and Pancit Malabon are just a few examples. These stir-fried noodle dishes are typically prepared with meat, vegetables, and noodles, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures.

No drinking session is complete without a sizzling plate of sisig! Sisig originated as a simple dish made from a pig's head and served as a beer snack. It has evolved into a popular Filipino dish, consisting of chopped and grilled pork seasoned with calamansi, soy sauce, and spices, then garnished with onions and chili peppers.

Bibingka is a traditional rice cake made from glutinous rice flour and coconut milk, baked in a clay pot lined with banana leaves. It is a common treat during the Christmas season and is often paired with a cup of hot chocolate. Bibingka's soft and slightly sweet taste is a comforting reminder of Filipino holiday traditions.

This one you eat with your bare hands! Chicken Inasal is a popular grilled chicken dish marinated in a mixture of vinegar, calamansi, garlic, and various spices. It originated in the Visayas region and has gained nationwide popularity. The chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky and tangy flavor that is distinctly Filipino.

Did you know that Tortang Talong was once hailed as the best egg dish in the whole world? This humble yet flavorful dish showcases the versatility of eggplant in Filipino cuisine. The smoky and slightly charred flavor of the eggplant pairs beautifully with the fluffy egg mixture, resulting in a savory and satisfying meal.

Filipino street food is a treasure trove of iconic dishes that showcase the ingenuity and creativity of Filipino culinary culture. From the sizzling skewers of isaw (grilled chicken or pork intestines) to the crispy fish balls and kwek-kwek (deep-fried quail eggs), each street food dish has a distinct character and flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.

There are so many delicious Filipino dishes worth trying to satisfy your taste buds! Ready to enjoy these cuisines while in the Philippines? Plan your best trip to the Philippines with Traveloka now. Happy travel!

Filipino cuisine is a captivating fusion of flavors, reflecting the Philippines' rich history and diverse culture. From the savory adobo to the sweet and refreshing halo-halo, there's a culinary adventure waiting for you in the Philippines. To embark on this mouthwatering journey and experience the warmth of Filipino hospitality, we highly recommend booking your hotel and flight through Traveloka.

Traveloka offers a convenient and reliable platform to plan your trip to the Philippines. With a wide range of accommodations and flight options, along with exclusive deals and discounts, you can explore Filipino cuisine and culture with ease and affordability.

Don't miss the opportunity to savor the tastes of the Philippines. Book your hotel and flight through Traveloka today, and immerse yourself in a culinary and cultural experience that will leave you with cherished memories!