I’ve gathered 30 authentic Filipino recipes that feel like a warm hug on a plate. These are the dishes I grew up loving and the ones I still crave on repeat, from cozy stews and crispy snacks to desserts that make everything better. I hope you fall for them just as hard as I have.
1. Chicken Adobo
I come back to Chicken Adobo again and again. The name traces back to the Spanish word “adobar,” which means to marinate, a little nod to centuries of Spanish influence.
Here, chicken gets browned and then braised in a tangy, salty mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns. It’s unbelievably simple and deeply soulful.
2. Kare Kare
Oh, this stew has my whole heart. Oxtail and tripe become so tender after a long simmer in that thick, savory peanut sauce.
I love dipping each bite into the sweet shrimp paste on the side. It’s a flavor explosion in the best way. The tripe has this uniquely soft, chewy texture that makes the whole dish feel extra special.
3. Dinuguan
Okay, I know this dish might give you pause, but stay with me. Dinuguan means “cooked with blood” and that inky black sauce is made primarily from pig’s blood.
Diced pork simmers in blood, vinegar, and spices until wonderfully rich and savory. It’s one of those things you just have to try to believe.
4. Filipino Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are a classic Filipino confection made from sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and desiccated coconut. These little mounds of pleasure are so sweet and chewy!
The coconut adds a toasted nutty flavor that wonderfully complements the sweetness of the cakes. Did you like the recipe?Click on a star to rate it!
5. Taisan (Chiffon Cake)
Taisan is the softest, fluffiest chiffon cake and I am obsessed. A generous smear of butter, a sprinkle of grated cheese, and a dusting of sugar is all it needs. There’s no heavy frosting here, just that dreamy sweet, buttery combo that makes every bite divine.
6. Sinangag (Garlic Fried Rice)
Waking up to the smell of sinangag sizzling is one of life’s tiny miracles. This garlic fried rice uses day old rice fried in oil with plenty of garlic, and that’s the whole beautiful formula. It’s the ultimate breakfast side dish and the aroma alone makes mornings feel golden.
7. Buko Pandan Ice Cream
Buko pandan is already an addictive dessert with young coconut and pandan jelly, and spinning it into ice cream is pure genius. The best part?
No ice cream machine needed. It’s creamy, dreamy, and ideal for sunny afternoons.
8. Lumpiang Shanghai
Lumpiang Shanghai are crispy little rolls I simply can’t quit. Ground meat, carrots, and onions are tucked into egg roll wrappers and deep fried until shatteringly golden.
I have to warn you: they’re insanely addictive. Limiting myself to three is a challenge I rarely win.
9. Banana Fritters (Maruya)
Banana fritters, or maruya, are a sweet morning or afternoon treat I adore. Mashed saba bananas meet a simple flour batter, get fried, and then take a roll in sugar. The result is crunchy on the outside, tender inside, and absolutely perfect with a cup of coffee.
10. Beef Pares
This beef pares is melt in your mouth tender, and I’m not kidding around. Brisket gets marinated in brown sugar and soy sauce, which gives it that incredible sweet and savory character.
And that broth? Absolutely to die for. I could sip it with a spoon and be perfectly happy.
11. Filipino Spaghetti
Filipino spaghetti is sweeter, meatier, and cheesier than any version you’ve probably had. Ground pork or beef simmers in a sweet tomato sauce loaded with cheddar cheese, and sometimes sliced hot dogs make an appearance for the kids.
It’s ridiculously rich and completely addictive. Even if it seems unexpected, it’s a must try.
12. Pork Chicharon
Pork chicharon is the crunchy, fatty snack that completely hijacks my self control. Those deep fried pork rinds turn into cracklings so addictive, stopping at just one is basically impossible.
They’re ridiculously good on their own, but dipped in vinegar they become next level. Honestly, one of the tastiest snacks on earth.
13. Buko Pie
Buko pie is a slice of pure tropical bliss. Tender young coconut and a sweet filling are wrapped up in a flaky, buttery crust.
Coconut grows everywhere in the Philippines and this pie is one of the most delicious ways to enjoy it. I get so excited every time I see one.
14. Sizzling Sisig
No Filipino drinking session feels complete without a sizzling platter of sisig. Chopped bits of pork get tossed with onions and chili peppers, then fried on a screaming hot pan.
It’s savory, spicy, and outrageously delectable. I could eat this every single time and never tire of it.
15. Pininyahang Manok
Pininyahang manok is sweet, savory, and completely delicious. Chicken first bathes in pineapple juice, then cooks in a creamy milk broth with chunks of pineapple, carrots, and bell peppers.
Spoon it over rice and let that rich sauce soak into every grain. I always, always go back for seconds.
16. Tinolang Manok
Tinolang manok is a chicken soup that’s both easy on the budget and overflowing with flavor. The broth gets its soul from fish sauce, ginger, garlic, onions, and a few chili pepper leaves for a gentle warmth. Served over rice, it tastes like home in a bowl.
17. Pan de Sal
Pan de sal is a beloved little bread roll that I can never resist. The name means “salt bread” in Spanish, yet somehow it’s actually sweet.
Slathered with butter, jam, or stuffed with meat, it makes the most satisfying breakfast. Alongside garlic fried rice, it’s a morning staple in every Filipino household.
18. Sago at Gulaman
When the tropical heat won’t quit, sago at gulaman is the answer. This sweet street drink is loaded with chewy tapioca pearls and jiggly cubes of gelatin in a sugary syrup. It’s the perfect thirst quencher on a hot day and tastes like pure refreshment.
19. Pineapple Coleslaw
A little sweetness in a savory dish is classic Filipino style, and this slaw delivers. Juicy pineapple tidbits and raisins are folded into a creamy mayo dressing with a splash of vinegar for balance.
It’s sweeter than your average coleslaw but the flavors harmonize so beautifully. I pile it on everything.
20. Beef Mechado
Beef Mechado is a saucy, hearty stew that rewards a little patience. Chunks of beef, potatoes, and carrots soak up a rich sauce made from tomato sauce, soy sauce, garlic, onions, pepper, and bay leaves.
It needs time on the stove so the meat can soften and fully absorb those savory flavors. Trust me, every minute is worth it.
21. Cheese Puto
Puto are these sweet, fluffy little rice cakes that I find absolutely irresistible. I love how a slice of cheddar on top brings a salty contrast to the soft, steam cooked treat.
They’re ideal for merienda, or served right alongside a bowl of dinuguan. Simple and amazing.
22. Iskrambol
“Iskrambol,” or “ice scramble,” is a street food made from powdered milk, shaved ice, pink food coloring, and God knows what. Every Filipino kid knows about the sweet and captivating Iskrambol.
With that mesmerizing pink hue, it’s hard not to catch a kid’s attention. While it’s widely known as a popular Filipino street food, the true origins of iskrambol remains a mystery.
23. Leche Flan
Leche flan is the dessert I spot at every celebration and I totally get why. It’s the Filipino take on crème caramel, with a custard so smooth and velvety it practically glides off the spoon.
That luscious caramel glaze on top is everything. I love it on its own, but it also plays nicely with halo halo or ube jam.
24. Salabat (Ginger Tea)
Salabat is the ginger tea I brew when I need a little soothing. Fresh ginger gets simmered with a touch of sugar, creating a warm, comforting cup. It’s widely known for calming sore throats and laryngitis, but
25. Arroz Caldo
Arroz caldo is my go-to comfort when the weather gets cool and rainy. Think of it as the Filipino version of congee, with chicken, scallions, toasted garlic, and a halved hard boiled egg all nestled in a ginger-spiked broth. It’s pure, cozy healing in a bowl and I crave it all the time.
26. Beef Pochero
Beef Pochero feels like a celebration on a plate. This tomato-rich stew is packed with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, chorizo, and chickpeas.
The unexpected star is saba banana, a stubby, milder native plantain that adds a gentle sweetness. It’s special occasion food done right.
27. Monggo Guisado
Monggo guisado transforms humble mung beans into something spectacular. Soaking the beans makes them tender, then they’re sautéed with garlic and onions and simmered until they practically melt.
The result is a thick, umami-packed stew that’s ridiculously rich and flavorful. I’m all in.
28. Beef Omelet (Torta)
Torta, or beef omelet, is a classic that truly deserves more love. Ground beef, diced potatoes, and carrots get folded into beaten eggs and pan fried until golden brown.
The idea is so straightforward, yet the flavor is phenomenal. I think the whole world needs to know about it.
29. Adobong Balut
This dish marries two Filipino icons into one wild bite. If you’re new to balut, it’s a fertilized duck embryo boiled and eaten right in the shell.
Locals love offering it to visitors as a delicious dare. It’s definitely an experience you won’t forget.
30. Tortang Talong (Eggplant Omelet)
Eggs and eggplant might not seem like an obvious duo, but in the Philippines it’s a weeknight favorite. Tortang Talong is a savory omelet made by dipping a whole eggplant in beaten egg and frying it until golden. It’s humble, simple, and so satisfying every single time.
