Volume
01
12 JAN 2024
TOP 7
7 Filipino Foods You Need to Try Before You Die
EXPLORE The Best Filipino Foods You Probably Haven't Tried Yet
UNDERRATED
MAGAZINE
SEASONING
GUIDE FOOD
KNOWLEDGE INSPIRATION
Introduction Culinary tourism has emerged as a vibrant and enticing avenue for travelers seeking not only to explore new destinations but also to savor the diverse flavors that different cultures have to offer. This unique form of tourism goes beyond traditional sightseeing, allowing individuals to embark on a gastronomic adventure that tantalizes their taste buds and opens a window to the rich culinary heritage of a region. Filipinos are known for their hospitality and generosity towards others. Helping and giving are one of our trademarks and it is known, not only in the country but all throughout the world. A lot of foreign people who visits the Philippines always say that the generosity and hospitality of our countrymen is usually shown or felt through our dishes. With that being said, let's mention some of the most iconic dishes that we have, one, "Sinigang" as a comfort food of the Koreans, second is "Adobo", a dish that is often tried by Americans and is tagged as one of their favorite Filipino dishes, and the list goes on. But today, we are not going to focus on those mentioned above, we will be featuring the "Underrated Filipino Dishes"; Pleasingly satisfying, heartwarming, 'though uncommon food that foreigners doesn't know... YET.
EDITOR’S NOTE
In a culinary landscape rich with diverse flavors, our Filipino Underrated Food Magazine aims to unearth hidden gems and unsung heroes of the Filipino gastronomic scene. This issue is a celebration of the lesserknown, the underrated, and the extraordinary stories behind each dish that often go unnoticed. Join us on a journey to discover the unsung flavors that make our culinary heritage truly remarkable. Danrev Joshua Madera Editor-in-chief
CULINARY TOURISM: MAPPING THE FLAVORS OF THE PHILIPPINES FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT Culinary tourism has emerged as a powerful force, enticing travelers to explore destinations through their unique gastronomic experiences. In the case of the Philippines, a diverse archipelago with a rich cultural tapestry, culinary tourism serves as a compelling avenue for tourism development. This article delves into the flavors that define the Philippines and how they contribute to the growth of this vibrant sector.
Exploring the Culinary Tapestry The Philippines boasts a kaleidoscope of flavors that reflect its historical influences and regional diversity. From the savory adobo to the mouthwatering lechon, each dish tells a story of a unique culinary heritage. Culinary tourism allows visitors to explore the nuances of Filipino cuisine, offering a taste of the country's rich history and cultural fusion.
Regional Delights
Local Markets and Street Food Culinary tourism extends beyond traditional restaurants to the vibrant local markets and street food scenes. Exploring these culinary hubs provides an authentic taste of Filipino life, where vendors showcase an array of indigenous ingredients and traditional cooking methods. From the bustling streets of Manila to the serene markets of Davao, each locale offers a sensory adventure for food enthusiasts.
One cannot fully appreciate Filipino cuisine without delving into the regional specialties that make each area distinctive. Whether it's the fiery Bicol Express from the Bicol Region or the hearty Sinigang from Luzon, culinary tourism enables travelers to embark on a gastronomic journey across the archipelago, savoring the local ingredients and techniques that give each dish its unique identity.
Community Engagement One of the remarkable aspects of culinary tourism is its ability to empower local communities. As visitors patronize local eateries and markets, they contribute directly to the livelihoods of small-scale producers and culinary artisans. This sustainable approach not only boosts the economy but also preserves the authenticity of Filipino cuisine.
Culinary Events and Festivals The Philippines hosts a myriad of culinary events and festivals that celebrate its diverse food culture. From the iconic Pahiyas Festival in Lucban to the lively Kadayawan Festival in Davao, these events showcase the culinary arts alongside traditional performances, creating a holistic experience for tourists.
Elevating Tourism Infrastructure Culinary tourism not only satisfies the palate but also fuels the growth of tourism infrastructure. The demand for culinary experiences encourages the development of culinary schools, food tours, and hospitality services. This, in turn, enhances the overall tourism ecosystem, making the Philippines a more attractive destination for global travelers.
Culinary tourism, with its ability to blend cultural exploration and gastronomic delights, serves as a catalyst for tourism development in the Philippines. By mapping the flavors that define each region, engaging local communities, and fostering sustainable practices, the Philippines can continue to position itself as a premier culinary destination, inviting travelers to savor the unique tastes and stories embedded in its diverse culinary landscape.
Exploring Hidden Delights: The Best Filipino Foods You Probably Haven't Tried Yet LAING Hailing from the Bicol region, Laing is a spicy dish made from dried taro leaves, coconut milk, and chili. The combination of creamy coconut and the heat of chilies creates a unique and satisfying flavor profile.
Tinumok Also known as "Laing sa Dahon," Tinumok is a delicacy from Bicol made by wrapping a mixture of ground shrimp or fish with coconut milk in taro leaves. The result is a delightful, savory treat that showcases the region's culinary expertise.
Batchoy Originating from Iloilo, Batchoy is a noodle soup featuring rich pork broth, egg noodles, and various toppings like pork offal, chicharrón (crispy pork skin), and garlic. It's a comforting dish with a complexity of textures and flavors
Filipino cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, influenced by a diverse history and a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American culinary traditions. While popular dishes like adobo, sinigang, and lechon are well-known, there are numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Let's embark on a culinary journey and explore some of the best Filipino foods you may not have tried yet.
Exploring Hidden Delights: The Best Filipino Foods You Probably Haven't Tried Yet Dinuguan at Puto Dinuguan, or blood stew, might sound intimidating, but it's a savory dish made with pork offal cooked in a rich, dark sauce made of pig's blood, vinegar, and spices. Pair it with Puto, a steamed rice cake, for a unique culinary experience.
Kare-Kare While Kare-Kare is not entirely unknown, its peanutbased sauce with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables deserves more attention. The distinct flavor of roasted peanuts sets this Filipino stew apart.
Sisig While Kare-Kare is not entirely unknown, its peanutbased sauce with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables deserves more attention. The distinct flavor of roasted peanuts sets this Filipino stew apart.
Taho A popular street food, Taho consists of silken tofu, arnibal (sweet syrup), and sago pearls (similar to tapioca). It's a sweet and comforting snack enjoyed by many Filipinos in the morning.
Filipino cuisine is a treasure trove of unique and delectable dishes that extend beyond the familiar. Exploring the less-known culinary delights such as Laing, Tinumok, Batchoy, Dinuguan at Puto, KareKare, Sisig, and Taho will deepen your appreciation for the diverse and flavorful offerings of the Philippines. So, the next time you crave an adventure for your taste buds, consider diving into the world of undiscovered Filipino foods.