Craving something deliciously authentic? From savory appetizers to hearty entrees and sweet desserts, these easy Filipino recipes are perfect for any meal and packed with flavor and comfort.
1.Buko Pie
Buko Pie is the ultimate tropical treat, blending tender young coconut milk with a sweet, creamy filling nestled in a flaky, buttery crust.
Coconut is a staple in the Philippines, and this pie is a delicious way to showcase its fresh, sweet flavor. Each bite is a perfect mix of tropical charm and comforting goodness.
2.Leche Flan
Leche flan is the ultimate must-try dessert in the Philippines, and it’s easy to see why. This Filipino twist on crème caramel offers a silky-smooth custard topped with a rich, caramel drizzle.
You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with other treats like halo-halo or ube jam for a sweet combo. The best part?
It’s surprisingly simple to make using just milk, sugar, eggs, and a steamer. Prep it in no time and get ready to impress with this classic Filipino delight!
3.Beef Pares
Beef pares is a game-changer for beef lovers–ultra-tender beef that’s so tender, it practically melts in your mouth.
The brisket is marinated in a mix of brown sugar and soy sauce, creating this amazing sweet and savory flavor combo. But the real star here? The broth.
Made with a secret blend of spices and seasonings, it’s so good you’ll want to slurp it straight from the bowl.
Fun fact: ‘Pares’ means ‘pair’ in Filipino, and trust us, this dish is best paired with a heaping serving of rice. It’s comfort food at its finest!
4.Cheese Puto
Meet Puto, a sweet little treat from the Philippines. This small, round rice-based cake is made with glutinous rice, giving it a soft and fluffy texture that’s simply irresistible.
It’s lightly sweetened, making it a delightful snack or side dish. The magic happens when you add a slice or two of cheddar cheese on top.
The sharp, salty flavor of the cheese perfectly balances the sweetness of the Puto, creating a delicious sweet and salty combination that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re enjoying it on its own as a merienda (afternoon snack) or pairing it with a savory dish like dinuguan, this Filipino rice cake is sure to hit the spot.
It’s a simple yet satisfying treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
5.Ginger Tea (Filipino Salabat)
Salabat is a comforting hot tea that’s all about ginger and a touch of sugar. This soothing brew is a go-to for easing sore throats and laryngitis, thanks to the warm, healing power of ginger.
Perfect for when you need a little pick-me-up.
6.Monggo Guisado
Monggo guisado is a hearty, umami-rich Filipino bean stew that’s sure to hit the spot. Mung beans are the star here, soaked overnight to make them super tender.
After a quick sauté with garlic and onions, they’re simmered until they’re melt-in-your-mouth soft. The result? A ridiculously rich and flavorful dish that’s pure comfort in a bowl.
7.Beef Pochero
Pochero is a special-occasion dish that brings together tender beef, potatoes, carrots, chorizo, and chickpeas in a rich tomato-based stew. What makes it truly unique is the addition of saba bananas!
Saba, a type of sweet plantain native to the Philippines, is shorter and fatter than regular bananas with a milder flavor. While it’s often used in desserts, it shines in this savory beef pochero.
(Check out my post ‘plantains vs. bananas’ if you’re curious about the difference.) The combination of flavors creates a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for any celebration.
8.Arroz Caldo
Arroz caldo is a warm, comforting bowl of rice porridge loaded with tender chicken, fresh scallions, toasted garlic, and a hard-boiled egg.
Think of it as the Filipino version of congee, but with its own unique twist.
This dish is the ultimate comfort food for Filipinos, especially on chilly, rainy days when all you want is something cozy.
The broth is infused with the warmth of ginger and a blend of spices, making it a soothing, feel-good meal that never fails to hit the spot.
9.Filipino Spaghetti
Filipino spaghetti is a delicious twist on the classic dish, offering a sweeter, meatier, and cheesier experience.
Ground beef or pork is cooked in a rich, sweet tomato sauce and smothered in cheddar cheese, creating a flavorful and addictive meal.
This vibrant version often includes hot dogs, making it a kid-friendly favorite that’s both hearty and fun.
10.Sinangag (Filipino Garlic Fried Rice)
Sinangag, or garlic fried rice, is a must-try Filipino breakfast staple. Made with day-old rice, oil, and garlic, it’s stir-fried to perfection and offers the best morning aroma.
Filipinos often add peas, carrots, corn, ham, and sometimes bits of meat to make it even more flavorful. You might spot some extra veggies or ham in there for added deliciousness.
Typically served with a fried egg and traditional Filipino meats like tocino, tapa, or longganisa (their version of sausage), this dish is the perfect way to start your day with a hearty, tasty twist.
11.Tinolang Manok
Tinolang Manok is a Filipino comfort food classic–a delicious chicken soup served with rice.
The broth is packed with flavor, thanks to fish sauce, fresh ginger, garlic, onions, and a hint of heat from chili pepper leaves.
This Filipino soup is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly dishes you can make, yet it packs a ton of flavor.
12.Lumpiang Shanghai
Lumpiang Shanghai is a delicious Filipino-Chinese fusion that’s a must-try for any food lover.
Imagine ground meat mixed with carrots and onions, all wrapped up in thin egg roll wrappers and deep-fried until golden and crispy. Fair warning: these crispy rolls are super addictive.
Trying to stop at three might be a challenge! Serve them with a side of ketchup or sweet and sour sauce for the perfect combo. They’re the ultimate party finger food that everyone will love!
13.Filipino Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are a beloved Filipino treat that combines sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and desiccated coconut into bite-sized bliss.
These chewy little bites are packed with sweetness and a nutty coconut flavor that makes every mouthful a delight.
Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these macaroons offer a delightful texture and flavor combination that’s hard to resist.
14.Banana Fritters
Banana fritters, or maruya, are a timeless Filipino snack that’s both sweet and satisfying.
Made with mashed saba bananas blended into a simple flour batter, these treats are deep-fried to a golden crisp and then coated in a layer of sugar for extra sweetness.
Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures–crunchy on the outside and soft inside. Perfect as a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, maruya brings a taste of classic Filipino comfort to your day.
15.Sizzling Sisig
In the Philippines, no drinking session is complete without a platter of sizzling sisig. This iconic dish transforms unexpected pork parts like the face, ears, and brain into a mouthwatering delicacy.
Chopped and flavored with onions, chili peppers, and then fried to a sizzling crisp, sisig isn’t just a meal–it’s a cultural masterpiece.
Filipinos turned what many would toss into a culinary gem, proving that creativity in the kitchen can turn scraps into something truly special.
Sisig is more than just food; it’s a celebration of flavor and resourcefulness that will leave you craving more.
16.Adobong Balut
Ever heard of balut? It’s a Filipino favorite that might raise an eyebrow at first, but trust us, it’s worth trying! Balut is a fertilized duck embryo, boiled and eaten right from the shell.
Sounds unusual, but this savory snack is a beloved Filipino delicacy. In this recipe, we’re giving it a flavor-packed twist by cooking it adobo style.
Marinated in soy sauce and vinegar, the duck embryo absorbs all those rich, tangy flavors. The shells are peeled off to let the flavors sink in even deeper.
If you’re feeling adventurous and don’t mind the unique texture, this dish is a must-try. Ready to give it a shot?
17.Sago at Gulaman
Sago at Gulaman is a sweet and refreshing Filipino drink that’s perfect for hot days.
This popular street food is loaded with chewy tapioca pearls (sago) and colorful gelatin cubes (gulaman), all wrapped up in a sugary syrup.
Whether you’re strolling through the streets or just need a cool treat, this drink is a must-try for anyone looking to beat the heat in style.
18.Pineapple Coleslaw
Filipino coleslaw brings a sweet twist to the classic savory dish. This version mixes in pineapple tidbits and raisins, all coated in a creamy mayonnaise for a sweeter take. Don’t worry, though–it’s not all sugar.
A touch of vinegar keeps the flavors perfectly balanced. Once you try this Filipino coleslaw, you might never go back to the traditional version again!
19.Filipino-Style Chicken Adobo Recipe
This iconic dish brings together the rich flavors of the Philippines and the bold influences of Spain. The name itself comes from the Spanish word for ‘marinade,’ and that’s exactly where the magic starts.
Tender chicken simmers in a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns, creating a dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor.
The marinade infuses the chicken with deep, savory flavors and just the right touch of tanginess.
As it cooks, the sauce thickens into a rich, golden glaze that’s absolutely irresistible over a plate of steamed rice.
20.Filipino Beef Omelet (Torta)
Meet the Torta, a classic Filipino dish that deserves a spot on every breakfast table.
This beef omelet is a simple yet flavorful mix of ground beef, diced potatoes, and carrots, all wrapped up in a golden-brown egg batter. Pan-fried to perfection, it’s a humble dish with a big personality.
While it’s delicious on its own, adding a drizzle of ketchup takes it to a whole new level. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest ideas pack the most flavor!
21.Beef Mechado
Beef mechado is a hearty, saucy stew that’s pure comfort in a pot. Tender chunks of beef, crisp potatoes, and sweet carrots all come together in a rich, flavorful broth.
The sauce is a delicious mix of tomato sauce, soy sauce, garlic, onions, pepper, and bay leaves, creating a deep, savory flavor.
While it takes some time to cook, the wait is worth it–each bite of tender beef and veggies is infused with that amazing sauce. It’s a classic dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
22.Pan De Sal
Bread lovers, rejoice! Filipinos absolutely adore their bread, and one of the most cherished is Pan de Sal, the Philippine bread roll.
Despite its name, which translates to “salt bread,” Pan de Sal is actually sweet–a delightful twist on its moniker.
Whether you fill it with jam, butter, or meat, it’s a hearty and satisfying way to start your day. Right after fried rice, it’s the Filipino’s go-to breakfast favorite.
This sweet and versatile bread roll is a must-try for anyone looking to experience a taste of the Philippines.
23.Iskrambol
Iskrambol, or ‘ice scramble,’ is a beloved Filipino street food treat that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
Made with powdered milk, shaved ice, and a hint of pink food coloring, this sweet drink has a magnetic appeal that kids just can’t resist.
While its origins remain a fun mystery, this recipe perfectly captures the unique, oddly satisfying flavors that make Iskrambol a timeless favorite.
Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth!
24.Kare-Kare
Kare-Kare is a show-stopping Filipino stew that’s as hearty as it is flavorful. Imagine tender oxtail, tripe, and a colorful mix of vegetables all swimming in a rich, creamy peanut sauce.
To balance the savory goodness, it’s traditionally served with a side of sweet shrimp paste, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite.
Tripe, which comes from a cow’s stomach lining, adds a unique soft and chewy texture that’s surprisingly delightful. The oxtail brings in that perfect balance of tender meat and fatty richness.
While it’s a bit of a labor of love to prepare, the end result is well worth the effort.
Packed with veggies like banana blossoms and smothered in that velvety sauce, Kare-Kare is a dish that will leave you craving more.
25.Pininyahang Manok
Pininyahang manok is where sweet and savory flavors come together in perfect harmony. This Filipino comfort food stars chicken marinated in pineapple juice, creating a deliciously tangy base.
After marinating, the chicken is simmered in milk, loaded with pineapples, carrots, and bell peppers for a hearty, creamy dish.
Serve it over rice, and watch as the milk-based broth soaks into every grain, leaving you wanting more. It’s a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful!
26.Taisan (Filipino Chiffon Cake)
Taisan is a cake that’s as soft as a cloud, with a fluffiness that’s hard to resist. It’s sweet, buttery, and totally irresistible.
What really sets it apart is that it doesn’t need a super sweet frosting to shine.
The mix of creamy butter, a touch of sugar, and a sprinkle of grated cheese is all it needs to become absolutely irresistible.
27.Buko Pandan Ice Cream
Get ready to obsess over Buko Pandan, a wildly addictive Filipino dessert that’s now reimagined as ice cream! This tropical treat combines the creaminess of young coconut meat with the vibrant flavor of pandan-flavored gelatin.
The best part? You don’t need an ice cream maker to whip it up–just mix, freeze, and enjoy! This no-churn recipe is a game-changer, blending sweet, refreshing, and utterly tropical flavors into every bite.
Give it a try, and you’ll be hooked from the first scoop!
28.Eggplant Omelet
Looking for a unique twist on a classic omelet? Meet Tortang Talong, the Philippines’ clever take on combining eggs and eggplant. This savory dish is a staple side that’s perfect for weeknights.
The process is simple: an eggplant is grilled to bring out a smoky flavor, then coated in a flavorful egg mixture and fried to perfection.
Serve it alongside rice and your favorite meat dish for a well-rounded meal that’s both tasty and satisfying.
29.Dinuguan
This dish might raise an eyebrow at first, but trust us, it’s a game-changer. Dinuguan, which means ‘cooked with blood,’ is a traditional Filipino dish that’s as intriguing as it is delicious.
The sauce gets its rich, deep color from pig’s blood, and the flavor? Think tender diced pork simmered in a mix of tangy vinegar and spices for a savory, umami-packed experience.
Serve it with puto, a sweet rice cake, and you’ve got the ultimate afternoon snack. Don’t knock it ’til you try it–this one’s a must-try!
30.Pork Chicharon
Pork chicharon is the ultimate Filipino snack you need to try! Crunchy, fatty, and irresistibly addictive, these deep-fried pork rinds are a treat you won’t want to stop munching on.
Enjoy them on their own for that perfect crunch, or take it up a notch by dipping them in a zesty vinegar sauce.
Trust us, this snack is hands-down one of the most delicious you’ll ever taste.
30 Authentic Filipino Recipes
Course: AppetizersCuisine: AsianDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalCraving something deliciously authentic? From savory appetizers to hearty entrees and sweet desserts, these easy Filipino recipes are perfect for any meal and packed with flavor and comfort.
Ingredients
Buko Pie
Leche Flan
Beef Pares
Cheese Puto
Ginger Tea (Filipino Salabat)
Monggo Guisado
Beef Pochero
Arroz Caldo
Filipino Spaghetti
Sinangag (Filipino Garlic Fried Rice)
Tinolang Manok
Lumpiang Shanghai
Filipino Coconut Macaroons
Banana Fritters
Sizzling Sisig
Adobong Balut
Sago at Gulaman
Pineapple Coleslaw
Filipino-Style Chicken Adobo Recipe
Filipino Beef Omelet (Torta)
Beef Mechado
Pan De Sal
Iskrambol
Kare-Kare
Pininyahang Manok
Taisan (Filipino Chiffon Cake)
Buko Pandan Ice Cream
Eggplant Omelet
Dinuguan
Pork Chicharon
Directions
- Select your favorite recipe.
- Organize all the required ingredients.
- Prep a delicious recipe in 30 minutes or less!