Try these hand-picked Filipino recipes. All of these were part of our day to day diet while living in the Philippines. The tradition in all of SE Asia is not to have a center item with side dishes as in the west but more like a Tapas Bar in Spain. 10 or more Filipino dishes to pick and taste from during every meal.

History of Filipino Recipes

Filipino cuisine is composed of the cuisines of more than a hundred distinct groups found throughout the Philippine group of islands. However, a majority of mainstream Filipino dishes that compose Filipino food are from the cuisines of the various groups and tribes of their chain of islands.

The style of food making and the food associated with it have evolved over many centuries from their shared Malaysian and Indonesian cuisines to a mixed cuisine of Indian, Chinese, Spanish and American influences.

31 Best Recipes In the Philippines

1. Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe

Chicken adobo is one of the best recipes in the Philippines, loved for its bold, tangy flavours. This dish features chicken marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper, then simmered to tender perfection. Its savoury sauce pairs beautifully with steamed rice, making it a staple in Filipino households. With its easy preparation and use of pantry staples, chicken adobo is also among the easy recipes in the Philippines, perfect for weeknight dinners. Whether you enjoy it with a splash of coconut milk or as a classic version, this timeless recipe continues to showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage.

2. Filipino Kare-Kare Recipe

Kare-kare is a rich, peanut-based stew that’s a hallmark of Filipino cuisine. Made with oxtail, tripe, or pork, it is simmered with vegetables like eggplant and string beans. Known as one of the best recipes in the Philippines, kare-kare’s nutty flavour stands out, especially when paired with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste). Though it’s a traditional dish often served at celebrations, kare-kare can also be prepared as an everyday meal. Its hearty taste and creamy sauce make it a comforting dish that’s enjoyed with steamed rice. This recipe perfectly captures the diverse and vibrant flavours of Filipino cooking.

3. Filipino Sinangag Recipe

Arroz caldo is a hearty rice porridge made with chicken, garlic, and ginger, simmered until thick and creamy. Known as one of the best recipes in the Philippines it’s perfect for cold weather or as comfort food when you’re feeling unwell. This dish is often garnished with hard-boiled eggs, spring onions, and calamansi for a burst of flavour. Arroz caldo is a filling and satisfying meal that showcases Filipino ingenuity in creating dishes from simple ingredients. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast dish or a soothing dinner, arroz caldo is a versatile and timeless recipe loved by many.

4. Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe

Arroz caldo is a hearty rice porridge made with chicken, garlic, and ginger, simmered until thick and creamy. Known as one of the best recipes in the Philippines  it’s perfect for cold weather or as comfort food when you’re feeling unwell. This dish is often garnished with hard-boiled eggs, spring onions, and calamansi for a burst of flavour. Arroz caldo is a filling and satisfying meal that showcases Filipino ingenuity in creating dishes from simple ingredients. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast dish or a soothing dinner, arroz caldo is a versatile and timeless recipe loved by many.

5. Filipino Pork Sisig Recipe

Pork sisig is a sizzling dish made from chopped pork jowl, ears, and liver, seasoned with calamansi, onions, and chilli. This iconic Filipino dish is known for its crispy texture and savoury, tangy taste. As one of the best recipes in the Philippines, sisig is a favourite appetiser or pulutan (beer match) at gatherings. While the traditional version involves grilling and chopping, modern recipes allow for variations using ground pork or other cuts, making it one of the Philippines recipes with ground beef or pork. Serve it on a hot plate with a raw egg on top for added richness.

6. Filipino Leche Flan Recipe

Leche flan is a creamy caramel custard dessert made with egg yolks, condensed milk, and evaporated milk. Known as one of the best recipes in the Philippines, it’s a favourite during festive occasions and family gatherings. This luscious dessert features a smooth, silky texture topped with a golden caramel glaze, making it irresistible to dessert lovers. While traditionally steamed, it can also be baked for convenience. With its rich flavour and melt-in-your-mouth consistency, leche flan is a perfect way to end any Filipino meal. Simple yet decadent, it remains a timeless classic enjoyed across generations.

7. Filipino Pan de Sal Recipe

Pan de sal is a soft, slightly sweet bread roll that’s a staple in Filipino breakfasts. This beloved bread pairs well with butter, cheese, or jam, and it’s also enjoyed as a sandwich base. As one of the easy recipes in the Philippines, pan de sal is simple to make yet delivers a delightful, freshly baked aroma that fills any kitchen. It’s a comforting choice for breakfast or snacks, often served warm with coffee or hot chocolate. Whether you prefer it plain or stuffed with savoury fillings, pan de sal embodies the essence of Filipino home baking.

8. Filipino Pininyahang Manok Recipe

Pininyahang manok, or pineapple chicken stew, is a sweet and savoury dish featuring chicken cooked in a creamy pineapple sauce. This recipe is among the best recipes in the Philippines for its unique blend of tropical flavours and comforting richness. With chunks of pineapple, bell peppers, and carrots, it offers a burst of colour and taste in every bite. Perfect for family meals or gatherings, pininyahang manok is a crowd-pleaser served with warm rice. Its combination of sweet and savoury elements makes it a standout dish in Filipino cuisine that’s both satisfying and memorable.

9. Filipino Pork Chicharon Recipe

Pork chicharon, or crispy pork cracklings, is a popular Filipino snack that’s crunchy and savoury. Made by frying pork skin until golden and crisp, it’s one of the best recipes in the Philippines for those who love bold, snackable treats. Chicharon is often served with a vinegar dipping sauce for added tanginess, enhancing its rich taste. Perfect as a snack or appetiser, it’s a versatile dish that can also be used as a topping for other recipes like pancit or monggo. Its irresistible crunch and flavour make it a beloved choice for casual snacking or festive occasions.

10. Filipino Halo-Halo Recipe

Halo-halo is a colourful and refreshing Filipino dessert made with crushed ice, sweetened beans, jellies, fruits, and milk, topped with leche flan or ube ice cream. This iconic dessert is among the best recipes in the Philippines, celebrated for its vibrant presentation and medley of flavours. Perfect for hot days, halo-halo offers a cooling treat that combines sweet, creamy, and chewy textures in every bite. Assembling the layers is as fun as eating it, making it a favourite for all ages. Whether enjoyed at home or from a local stand, halo-halo is the ultimate Filipino dessert experience.

11. Filipino Picadillo Recipe

Picadillo is a savoury stew made with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and a tomato-based sauce. As one of the classic Philippines recipes with ground beef, it’s a simple yet hearty dish perfect for family meals. Often served with rice or as a filling for bread, picadillo is versatile and satisfying. This dish is also packed with nutrients, making it a balanced choice for lunch or dinner. Its easy preparation and comforting taste make it a favourite in many Filipino households, highlighting the country’s knack for creating delicious meals from humble ingredients.

12. Filipino Halang Halang Chicken Recipe

“Halang-halang is a spicy chicken soup infused with coconut milk, ginger, and chilli, creating a warming and flavourful dish. As one of the best recipes in the Philippines, it’s perfect for cold days or when you crave something with a spicy kick. The creaminess of the coconut milk balances the heat, while the aromatic spices make each spoonful a delight. This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the bolder side of Filipino cuisine. Simple yet delicious, halang-halang is a standout soup worth adding to your table.

13. Filipino Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe

Pineapple coleslaw is a refreshing side dish made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and pineapple chunks, tossed in a creamy dressing. As one of the easy recipes in the Philippines, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for barbecues or picnics. The sweet and tangy pineapple adds a tropical twist to the classic coleslaw, making it a delightful complement to grilled meats or fried dishes. This versatile side dish is loved for its balance of flavours and crunchy texture. Whether for casual meals or gatherings, pineapple coleslaw is a simple yet tasty addition to any Filipino spread.

14. Filipino Pochero Recipe

Pochero is a hearty stew made with pork, beef, or chicken, simmered with saba bananas, potatoes, and green beans in a savoury tomato-based broth. It’s one of the best recipes in the Philippines, offering a comforting and filling meal ideal for family gatherings. The sweetness from the saba bananas balances the richness of the broth, creating a dish that’s both unique and satisfying. Pochero is typically served with rice and a side of bagoong (fermented shrimp paste). Its vibrant flavours and nourishing ingredients make it a standout dish that highlights Filipino culinary creativity.

15. Filipino Lumpiang Shanghai Recipe

Lumpiang Shanghai is a Filipino-style spring roll filled with seasoned ground pork or beef, minced vegetables, and spices, then fried to golden perfection. As one of the most popular Philippines recipes with ground beef, it’s often served as a party appetiser or snack. These crispy rolls are typically paired with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, enhancing their savoury flavour. Lumpiang Shanghai is loved for its crunchy texture and flavourful filling, making it a must-have at celebrations. Whether enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal, these spring rolls are a Filipino classic.

16. Filipino Pork Nilaga Soup Recipe

Pork nilaga is a comforting soup made with tender pork, cabbage, potatoes, and clear broth. Known as one of the best recipes in the Philippines, this dish is simple to prepare and perfect for cold days. Its light and savoury broth highlights the natural flavours of the ingredients, making it a household favourite. Served with steamed rice, pork nilaga is both nourishing and satisfying, ideal for family meals. The combination of tender meat and fresh vegetables makes it a go-to dish for Filipinos looking for something hearty yet uncomplicated.

17. Filipino Maruya Recipe 

Maruya is a sweet banana fritter made with ripe saba bananas dipped in a light batter and fried until golden brown. This traditional snack is one of the easy recipes in the Philippines, loved for its simplicity and delightful taste. Often dusted with sugar, maruya is a perfect merienda (afternoon snack) that pairs well with coffee or tea. The crisp exterior and soft, caramelised banana inside create a comforting treat enjoyed by all ages. Whether made for casual snacks or special occasions, maruya is a delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of saba bananas.

18. Filipino Salad Crêpes Recipe

Filipino salad crêpes are thin pancakes filled with a mixture of fruits, cream, and condensed milk, creating a sweet and refreshing dessert. As one of the best recipes in the Philippines, these crêpes are both elegant and easy to make, perfect for parties or special occasions. The combination of soft crêpes and creamy filling makes every bite a delightful experience. Often topped with a drizzle of syrup or powdered sugar, this dessert showcases Filipino ingenuity in blending textures and flavours. Whether served chilled or freshly made, Filipino salad crêpes are a crowd favourite.

19. Filipino Carioca Recipe

Carioca is a sweet snack made from glutinous rice balls coated in caramelised coconut syrup. As one of the easy recipes in the Philippines, it’s a quick and satisfying treat that’s perfect for on-the-go snacking. The chewy texture of the rice balls, combined with the rich, sweet coconut glaze, makes carioca a beloved street food. These bite-sized delights are often served on skewers, making them easy to enjoy anywhere. Whether as a midday snack or a dessert, carioca highlights the Filipino love for simple yet flavourful treats.

20. Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe

Bistek Tagalog, or Filipino beef steak, is a savoury dish made with thinly sliced beef marinated in soy sauce and calamansi, then sautéed with onions. It’s one of the most beloved Philippines recipes with ground beef or sliced cuts, known for its bold flavours and tender texture. Often served with steamed rice, bistek Tagalog is a staple in Filipino households for its ease of preparation and delicious taste. The tangy marinade perfectly complements the richness of the beef, while the caramelised onions add a touch of sweetness. This dish is a comforting addition to any Filipino meal.

21. Filipino Buko Pie Recipe

Buko pie is a classic Filipino dessert made with young coconut meat and a rich, creamy filling encased in a buttery crust. This beloved pastry is one of the best recipes in the Philippines, popular for its satisfying sweetness and smooth texture. The tender coconut slices add a tropical twist, making it a must-try for locals and tourists alike. Served warm or at room temperature, buko pie pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, this pie showcases the Filipino love for coconut in all its delicious forms.

22. Filipino Cheese Puto Recipe

Cheese puto is a soft, steamed rice cake topped with melted cheese, offering a balance of savoury and sweet flavours. As one of the easy recipes in the Philippines, it’s a favourite for breakfast or snacks. The rice cake’s fluffy texture complements the richness of the cheese, creating a delightful combination. Often served with coffee or hot chocolate, cheese puto is a versatile treat enjoyed by all ages. Whether prepared for celebrations or everyday meals, its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a Filipino household staple.

23. Filipino Biko Recipe

Biko is a sticky rice dessert made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar, then topped with latik (coconut curds). Known as one of the best recipes in the Philippines, this sweet treat is often served during fiestas and special occasions. Its chewy texture and caramel-like flavour make it a crowd favourite. Typically presented in banana leaves, biko highlights Filipino ingenuity in transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether as a snack or dessert, this traditional rice cake remains a cherished part of Filipino culinary heritage.

24. Filipino Beef Torta Recipe

Beef torta is a Filipino-style omelette made with ground beef, eggs, and spices, often served with a side of rice and ketchup. As one of the popular Philippines recipes with ground beef, it’s a go-to meal for busy households. due to its simplicity and flavour. The savoury ground beef filling complements the fluffy eggs, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With its easy preparation and delicious taste, beef torta has become a versatile option for Filipinos seeking a quick yet hearty meal.

25. Filipino Turon Roll Recipe

Turon is a Filipino snack made by wrapping ripe bananas and jackfruit in spring roll wrappers, then frying them until golden and crispy. It’s one of the easy recipes in the Philippines, loved for its sweet and crunchy appeal. Often coated with caramelised sugar, turon is a popular street food that pairs well with coffee or tea. The combination of the soft, sweet filling and crisp wrapper makes it a delightful treat for all ages. Whether as a dessert or snack, turon is a simple yet satisfying example of Filipino cuisine.

26. Filipino Buko Pandan Ice Cream Recipe

Buko pandan ice cream is a creamy dessert made with young coconut strips, pandan-flavoured jelly, and sweetened cream. As one of the best recipes in the Philippines, it offers a refreshing twist to traditional ice cream. The vibrant green hue and tropical flavour make it a standout treat during hot days. Perfect for family gatherings or casual snacking, buko pandan ice cream combines the distinct taste of pandan with the sweetness of coconut, showcasing the Filipino love for innovative desserts.

27. Filipino Beef Mechado Recipe

Beef Mechado is a rich tomato-based stew made with tender beef, potatoes, and carrots, often served with rice. As one of the most comforting Philippines recipes with ground beef or chunks, it’s a dish that brings warmth to the table. The slow-cooked beef absorbs the tangy tomato flavours, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, beef mechado highlights the Filipino knack for slow-cooked, flavourful dishes that bring people together.

28. Filipino Empanadas Recipe

Filipino empanadas are pastry pockets filled with ground meat, potatoes, and vegetables, then baked or fried to perfection. Known as one of the best recipes in the Philippines, these savoury snacks are a staple in Filipino cuisine. The flaky crust and savoury filling create a delightful contrast in texture, making them perfect for on-the-go meals or party appetisers. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, Filipino empanadas showcase the country’s love for hand-held, flavour-packed snacks.

29. Filipino Chicken Kebabs Recipe

Filipino chicken kebabs, locally known as “inasal skewers,” feature marinated chicken grilled to juicy perfection. This dish is one of the more easy recipes in the Philippines, perfect for outdoor barbecues or casual dinners. The marinade, often made with calamansi, soy sauce, and garlic, gives the chicken a tangy and savoury kick. Served with rice and dipping sauces, Filipino chicken kebabs offer a tasty and fun way to enjoy grilled meat. Their smoky, flavourful aroma makes them a favourite at gatherings.

30. Filipino Mechadong Baka Recipe

Mechadong baka is a beef stew simmered in a tomato-based sauce with vegetables like potatoes and carrots. As one of the classic Philippines recipes with ground beef or chunks, it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for family meals. The slow cooking process allows the beef to absorb the rich, tangy flavours of the sauce, making it tender and flavourful. Often paired with steamed rice, mechadong baka showcases the Filipino love for hearty, home-cooked meals that bring everyone to the table.

31. Filipino Taisan Cake Recipe

Taisan cake is a soft, buttery sponge cake topped with sugar and grated cheese, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savoury flavours. As one of the best recipes in the Philippines, it’s a popular treat for breakfast or snacks. The light and fluffy texture of the cake makes it perfect with coffee or tea. Often served during celebrations or as a gift, taisan cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that highlights Filipino creativity in blending flavours and textures.