Best Filipino Recipes

30 Classic Filipino Recipes for Family Dinners

Filipino dishes offers a beautiful mix of flavors, from savory stews to sweet and tangy desserts.

They bring authentic tastes to life with ingredients like coconut, soy, garlic, and tropical fruits that highlight the Philippines’ culinary heritage.

Each dish reflects the warmth and diversity of Filipino culture, making meals that are as comforting as they are flavorful.

Chicken Caldereta

Chicken caldereta offers a comforting embrace of flavors that warms the heart.

This Filipino dish showcases tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce, infused with savory spices and hints of sweetness.

Bell peppers, carrots, and olives add vibrant colors and textures to each serving.

A splash of liver spread brings depth to the sauce, elevating it beyond ordinary stews.

Filipino Pork Menudo

Filipino pork menudo is a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly.

It combines tender pork, colorful vegetables, and rich tomato sauce to create a comforting meal that feels like home.

Each ingredient plays its part; potatoes add creaminess while bell peppers bring sweetness to every mouthful.

A hint of soy sauce adds depth, making each spoonful satisfying in flavor and texture.

Filipino Chicken Asado (Kapampangan Style)

Filipino chicken asado, especially in the Kapampangan style, brings a blend of flavors that dance on your palate.

This dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices that create an inviting aroma.

The sweetness from the caramelized onions adds depth to each mouthful while hints of citrus brighten the overall taste experience.

Traditionally served with steamed rice or fresh vegetables, it invites you to savor every moment at the table with loved ones.

Giniling (Filipino Picadillo)

Giniling, a Filipino picadillo, brings warmth and comfort to any table.

Ground meat simmers with potatoes, carrots, and peas in a rich tomato sauce that fills the air with inviting aromas.

This dish showcases the heart of Filipino cooking, simple ingredients coming together to create something truly satisfying.

The balance of savory flavors makes it an excellent choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Serve it over rice for a complete meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate; you’ll want to savor every spoonful!

Filipino Pork Adobo

Filipino pork adobo is a dish that carries rich flavors and a deep cultural history.

Tender chunks of pork simmer in a tangy blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices.

The aroma wafting through your kitchen can transport you to the bustling streets of Manila.

This meal brings people together around the table, inviting laughter and stories as everyone enjoys its savory goodness.

Enjoying this classic comfort food feels like sharing a piece of home with those you love most.

Pancit (Filipino Fried Rice Noodles)

Pancit offers a taste of Filipino culture, bringing together rice noodles and vibrant vegetables in a harmonious blend.

This dish showcases the art of stir-frying, where fresh ingredients dance together in the pan, creating an enticing aroma that fills your kitchen.

With each forkful, you experience a balance of textures: crunchy veggies paired with tender noodles that wrap around flavors like soy sauce and garlic.

Sharing pancit at gatherings is more than just enjoying food; it symbolizes good fortune and celebration among loved ones.

Filipino Beef Caldereta

Beef caldereta captures the heart of Filipino cuisine with its rich, savory flavors.

Tender chunks of beef simmer in a luscious tomato sauce, infused with spices that warm the soul.

Bell peppers and carrots add a colorful crunch, while olives lend an unexpected twist to each mouthful.

This dish often finds its way to family gatherings and celebrations, bringing everyone together around the table for hearty laughter and stories shared over food.

The comforting aroma fills your home as it cooks slowly, inviting you to savor every moment spent enjoying this beloved classic.

Filipino Pork BBQ

Filipino pork BBQ is a mouthwatering dish that brings a burst of flavor to any gathering.

Tender pieces of marinated pork are skewered and grilled to perfection, creating an irresistible aroma that fills the air.

The marinade, often made with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar or pineapple juice, gives the meat its signature taste.

Each skewer becomes a treat that pairs wonderfully with rice or fresh vegetables.

Kare Kare

Kare kare brings a rich tapestry of flavors to the table, inviting you to savor every moment.

This Filipino dish features tender oxtail and vegetables simmered in a luscious peanut sauce that warms the soul.

A hint of bagoong, or shrimp paste, adds depth and complexity that perfectly balances the creamy texture.

Traditionally served with steamed rice, it transforms any meal into an occasion worth celebrating with loved ones.

Each serving tells a story of heritage and love for cooking that resonates deeply within Filipino culture.

Ginataang Hipon (Shrimp in Thick Coconut Sauce)

Ginataang hipon invites you to savor the rich flavors of shrimp cooked in a luscious coconut sauce.

The sweetness of coconut milk pairs beautifully with tender shrimp, creating a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent.

Fresh vegetables like eggplant and string beans add color and texture, making every mouthful an experience worth relishing.

A hint of spice from chili peppers can elevate this dish, giving it just the right kick to excite your palate.

Enjoying ginataang hipon brings warmth to any gathering, transforming mealtime into a delightful celebration with loved ones around the table.

Beef Mechado

Beef mechado captures the heart of Filipino cuisine with its rich flavors and tender meat.

This dish features beef simmered slowly in a savory sauce, infused with soy sauce, tomatoes, and spices that dance on your palate.

The addition of potatoes adds a comforting texture while absorbing all those delicious juices.

Each serving invites you to savor the warmth of home-cooked meals shared around family tables.

With its hearty nature, beef mechado brings people together for moments filled with laughter and stories over steaming rice.

Lumpia (Filipino Spring Rolls)

Lumpia brings a burst of flavor and texture that can light up any gathering.

These crispy Filipino spring rolls are filled with a mix of vegetables, meat, or seafood, wrapped in thin pastry that crisps beautifully when fried.

Each roll carries the warmth of tradition and is often served with a tangy dipping sauce that complements its savory goodness perfectly.

The versatility allows for countless variations; whether you prefer them sweet or savory, there’s always something to suit your taste buds.

Chicken Afritada

Chicken afritada brings a comforting warmth to the table, inviting everyone to gather around.

Tender chicken pieces simmer in a rich tomato sauce, infused with vibrant bell peppers and hearty potatoes that soak up all the flavors.

This dish is not just about nourishment; it tells tales of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones.

A sprinkle of peas adds a pop of color and sweetness, making every spoonful feel like a hug from the inside out.

Serving this meal creates moments filled with laughter and connection that linger long after the plates are cleared.

Embutido Recipe (Filipino Style Pork Meatloaf)

The embutido recipe brings a twist to traditional meatloaf, showcasing the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine.

Ground pork serves as the main ingredient, combined with colorful vegetables like carrots and bell peppers that add both texture and sweetness.

This dish often includes raisins or hard-boiled eggs tucked inside, creating surprises with every slice you serve.

A savory blend of spices enhances the taste while soy sauce contributes a lovely umami depth that makes this meal unforgettable.

Pork Sisig

Pork sisig brings a twist to traditional Filipino cuisine, capturing the essence of bold flavors and textures.

Tender pieces of pork, often grilled or fried to perfection, mingle with zesty onions and tangy calamansi for a mouthwatering experience.

This dish is often served sizzling hot on a cast-iron plate, releasing an inviting aroma that makes your taste buds tingle with anticipation.

A sprinkle of chili adds just the right amount of heat, while crispy bits provide an irresistible crunch in every bite.

Homemade Beef Tapa (Tapsilog)

Homemade beef tapa brings a warm, comforting feel to any meal.

This dish features tender marinated beef, cooked until it's perfectly caramelized and bursting with flavor.

Paired with garlic rice and a sunny-side-up egg, it creates a delightful breakfast that feels like a hug on your plate.

The blend of savory meat and fragrant rice awakens the senses while inviting you to savor every mouthful.

Chicken Tinola

Chicken tinola warms the heart with its soothing broth and tender chicken pieces.

Fresh ginger adds a zesty kick, while green papaya introduces a subtle sweetness that balances the dish perfectly.

You might find yourself savoring each spoonful as it wraps you in comfort, especially on chilly days or when feeling under the weather.

This Filipino classic often brings families together around the table, where stories are shared and laughter fills the air.

The fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen invites everyone to come closer and enjoy a bowl of this beloved comfort food.

Filipino Garlic Rice (Sinangag)

Filipino garlic rice, known as sinangag, is a beloved staple that brings warmth to any meal.

The aroma of sautéed garlic fills the air, inviting you to savor its comforting essence.

Leftover rice transforms into something special with just a few simple ingredients: oil and plenty of crispy garlic bits.

This dish pairs beautifully with savory meats or fried eggs, making breakfast or dinner feel extra cozy.

Arroz Caldo Recipe (Filipino Chicken and Rice Porridge)

Arroz caldo brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful, a beloved Filipino dish that soothes the soul.

This chicken and rice porridge is rich in flavor, infused with ginger and garlic that dance together beautifully.

Cooking this dish fills your kitchen with inviting aromas, making it hard to resist a taste before it's ready.

Topped off with green onions, hard-boiled eggs, or crispy garlic bits adds textures that elevate each serving.

Filipino Empanada

Filipino empanada brings a twist to the traditional pastry.

Stuffed with savory fillings like spiced meat, vegetables, and sometimes even eggs, every bite is a burst of flavor that dances on your palate.

The golden crust offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender filling inside.

These hand-held treats are good for snacking or sharing during gatherings, inviting everyone to indulge in their deliciousness together.

Each empanada carries the warmth of Filipino culture and tradition.

Beef Bulalo (Filipino Beef Shank Soup)

Beef bulalo warms the heart with its rich, savory flavors.

This Filipino soup features tender beef shank simmered for hours, allowing the marrow to melt into a comforting broth.

Fresh vegetables like corn and cabbage add a crunch and vibrant color to each bowl.

The aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a satisfying meal that feels like home.

Lechon Belly (Crispy Roasted Pork Belly)

Lechon belly brings a burst of flavor that dances on your palate.

This dish features tender, juicy pork enveloped in a crispy skin that crackles with each bite.

The aroma wafts through the air, enticing everyone around to gather and enjoy together.

A blend of spices seeps into the meat, ensuring every morsel is packed with savory goodness.

Chicken Inasal (Filipino Grilled Chicken)

Chicken inasal brings a taste of the Philippines right to your plate.

This dish features marinated chicken, infused with a blend of tangy vinegar, garlic, and spices that create an unforgettable flavor.

Grilled over charcoal, it gets that irresistible smoky aroma that makes your mouth water just thinking about it.

Served with steamed rice and a side of spicy vinegar dipping sauce, every meal feels like a special occasion filled with warmth and laughter.

Pancit Palabok (Filipino Rice Noodles with Pork and Shrimp Sauce)

Pancit palabok offers a warm embrace of flavors that dance on your palate.

This Filipino dish showcases rice noodles drenched in a rich, savory sauce made from shrimp and pork, bringing comfort with every forkful.

A sprinkle of chicharrón adds crunch, while hard-boiled eggs lend creaminess to the mix.

Fresh green onions and vibrant lemon wedges provide a refreshing contrast that brightens each bite.

Banana Cue (Filipino Fried Caramelized Bananas)

Banana cue brings a twist to the classic banana treat.

Imagine golden bananas, skewered and deep-fried until they reach a perfect crispiness.

Coated in caramelized sugar, these sweet bites have an irresistible shine that catches your eye and makes your mouth water.

Street vendors often sell them hot, filling the air with an enticing aroma that invites you to indulge right away.

Enjoying banana cue feels like taking a bite of happiness on a stick, simple yet satisfying in every way!

Siopao Asado

Siopao asado invites you to experience a blend of flavors wrapped in soft, fluffy dough.

This popular Filipino treat features a savory filling of tender pork marinated in sweet and salty sauce, often accompanied by hints of spices that awaken your taste buds.

The moment you take a bite, the warm steam escapes, bringing an inviting aroma that promises comfort and satisfaction.

Each siopao is lovingly crafted to be enjoyed at any time, whether as a snack on the go or part of a hearty meal shared with loved ones.

Savoring this dish connects you with rich culinary traditions while offering pure joy in every mouthful.

Pork Sinigang

Pork sinigang warms the heart with its tangy, savory broth that dances on the palate.

This Filipino dish showcases tender pork simmered to perfection alongside a medley of fresh vegetables like radish, eggplant, and water spinach.

The secret lies in tamarind's sour notes, which create a contrast to the richness of the meat.

A bowl of this comforting stew invites you to gather around with loved ones and share stories over steaming rice.

Chicken Mami (Filipino Chicken Noodle Soup)

Chicken mami is a comforting bowl of Filipino goodness that’s hard to resist.

Tender chicken simmers with fragrant spices, releasing an aroma that fills the kitchen with warmth.

Soft noodles absorb the rich broth, creating a blend of flavors that brings a sense of home.

Finished with green onions and often a boiled egg, this dish offers both nourishment and a connection to tradition.

Lumpiang Sariwa Filipino Fresh Spring Rolls

Lumpiang sariwa captures the essence of Filipino cuisine with its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Wrapped in a delicate rice paper, these spring rolls are filled with a colorful mix of vegetables, shrimp, and sometimes meat, creating a crunch in every bite.

A rich peanut sauce drizzled on top adds depth and creaminess that perfectly complements the freshness inside.

Enjoying lumpiang sariwa is more than just tasting; it’s about experiencing the warmth of Filipino hospitality that comes through every dish shared at gatherings.

This dish invites you to savor not only its deliciousness but also the joy of togetherness that food brings into our lives.

Leche Flan (Filipino Creme Caramel)

Leche flan captures the heart with its silky texture and rich flavor.

This Filipino dessert combines eggs, condensed milk, and sugar into a luscious treat that melts in your mouth.

The caramel topping adds a sweet touch that balances beautifully with the creamy base.

Often served during special occasions, this dish brings warmth to gatherings and celebrations.

Sharing leche flan creates moments of joy as everyone savors each spoonful together.

Linda Dean

Linda Dean

Expertise

Culinary Arts, Food Journalism, Global Cuisine, Exploration, Recipe Development, Cultural Food Studies, Culinary Travel and Storytelling

Education

Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY
Program: Associate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Developed a comprehensive understanding of global cuisines and essential cooking techniques. Engaged in intensive hands-on practice in both kitchens and real-world settings, guided by expert chefs. This program emphasized the application of culinary skills in professional environments, preparing students for a variety of roles in the culinary industry.

City, University of London, London, UK
Program: BA Journalism
Focus: Gained expertise in media studies with a strong foundation in reporting, editing, and communicating. While the program focuses broadly on journalism, the skills acquired apply to food journalism, including the ability to analyze and report on food culture and culinary trends effectively.


Linda Dean is an experienced chef and food writer who loves exploring flavors from around the world. Trained at the Culinary Institute of America, Linda has spent over ten years mastering the art of making dishes that truly represent different cultures. She also studied journalism at City, University of London, which helps her write engaging stories about these foods.

On heythattastesgood.com, Linda shares recipes that bring the world’s kitchens to her readers. She focuses on authentic tastes and the stories behind them, making it easy for anyone to try international cuisine at home.

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