Embark on a culinary adventure through the Philippines by pairing your main course with these 15 mouthwatering side dishes. The Filipino love for bold flavors, combining sweet and sour, spicy and salty, is a treat for the taste buds. As a melting pot of Asian cultures in Southeast Asia, the country’s cuisine is shaped by its neighbors, resulting in a diverse range of dishes featuring rice, garlic, eggs, and vegetables.
From classic recipes like Kinilaw Na Isda and Tokwa’t Baboy to innovative creations, these side dishes are sure to delight. Whether you’re an Asian food enthusiast or looking to try something new, this selection is a must-see.
Green Beans
The humble green bean has won me over with its unexpected flavor profile. This particular recipe draws inspiration from a classic French dish (haricots verts amandine) and elevates the humble legume with buttery toasted almonds, caramelized shallots, and a burst of citrus from a squeeze of lemon. Whether you’re in need of a reliable weeknight side dish or something more special for the holidays, this green bean recipe is sure to impress, pairing perfectly with turkey, ham, or even lechon belly.
Kamote Cue
The allure of fried sweet potatoes coated in brown sugar lies in their simplicity, affordability, and unexpected versatility. This beloved Filipino snack has gained popularity as an afternoon treat, but its charm extends beyond mere indulgence. It also makes a surprisingly great accompaniment to Inihaw Na Baboy, elevating the flavor profile of this traditional dish.
Chicken Adobo Enchilada Bake
This beloved casserole has earned a special place at many family tables thanks to its unique blend of Filipino and Mexican flavors. The chicken marinade brings an added layer of depth and complexity to this hearty dish, making it a true showstopper. While it does require some time and effort to prepare, the end result is well worth the investment – a rich, cheesy, and spicy enchilada bake that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Lumpiang Sariwa With Homemade Sauce
This unique Filipino twist on the classic Chinese dish, Lumpiang Sariwa, boasts a flavor profile that’s both familiar and excitingly new. The combination of crushed peanuts and tangy sweet-and-sour sauce adds an intriguing layer of complexity to this popular street food staple in the Philippines. While sweet potatoes are used in this recipe, adventurous cooks can experiment with alternative ingredients like hearts of palm or jicama to create a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
Pancit Bihon
A culinary staple among Filipino cooks, this Pancit Bihon recipe is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. By cooking the chewy rice noodles in a harmonious blend of sweet and salty sauce, then tossing them with tender chicken and crisp vegetables, you’ll be treated to a dish that’s not only mouthwateringly delicious but also remarkably quick to prepare.
In fact, this Pancit Bihon can be ready for devouring in just 25 minutes from start to finish – making it the perfect solution for busy home cooks looking to whip up a satisfying meal with minimal fuss.
Atsara
In the Philippines, affection for atsara is unwaveringly profound. This condiment is an integral part of every Filipino household, often served as a side dish to complement each meal. Although our approach to preparing atsara may differ from that of pickle relish, the authentic flavor remains unchanged and scrumptious. Typically, it’s paired with steaming hot rice and crispy fried foods.
Just as ketchup brings out the best in burgers and fries, atsara has a way of harmonizing its unique sweet, sour, and spicy flavors with an array of side dishes. Some individuals revel in the tangy sweetness, while others prefer the fiery kick that atsara delivers.
Lumpiang Shanghai
For those looking to impress at their next gathering or special occasion, Lumpia Shanghai is an excellent choice as both a side dish and finger food. Its unique sweet and spicy dipping sauce takes the experience to the next level, ensuring that every last drop will be savored by all. Pork enthusiasts won’t want to miss this opportunity to indulge in these delectable egg rolls.
Kinilaw Na Isda
In the Philippines, Kinilaw Na Isda is a beloved side dish that originates from the Visayas region, where its popularity knows no bounds. The versatility of this dish lies in its ability to pair well with an array of fish types, making it a staple at many social gatherings and parties. Its refreshing flavor profile also complements beer and other spirits perfectly, making it a popular choice for social events.
Cucumber And Tomato Salad
For those who share a passion for cucumbers and the tanginess of vinegar, this recipe is sure to delight. By combining cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions in a refreshing vinaigrette infused with balsamic vinegar, you’ll create a dish that’s not only flavorful but also provides a much-needed palate-cleansing contrast when paired with rich sauces and fatty meats.
Ensaladang Talong
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Philippines with Ensaladang Talong, a delectable roasted eggplant salad that perfectly complements the crispiest of fried delights. The addition of fresh cilantro and a medley of textures from mangoes, tomatoes, and onions brings a delightful twist to this traditional Filipino starter or side dish.
Ensaladang Ampalaya
The Bitter Gourd Relish is a flavorful opening course composed of delicately sliced bitter gourd, the pungency of red onion, and the sweetness of tomato. This harmonious blend makes it an excellent accompaniment to fried fish or other seafood dishes, elevating their natural flavors with its bold yet balanced taste.
Dinuguan
Dinuguan, a traditional Filipino stew, derives its name from the word ‘dugo’, which translates to blood. The ingredient that gives it its distinctive title is indeed the blood of freshly slaughtered pigs. While it may seem unconventional to cook with blood, this practice has been around for centuries and can be found in various cuisines worldwide.
From Chinese and Thai dishes to British and French cuisine, blood is used to create a range of savory sausages like morcilla, boudin noir, and black pudding. In the Philippines, dinuguan is often served with puto, a type of steamed rice cake, for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Puto
In the Philippines, Puto is a beloved delicacy that has captured the hearts of many. These steamed rice cakes are characterized by their light and airy texture, with just a hint of sweetness. A staple at family gatherings or boodle fights, Puto is often served as a side dish or dessert, perfectly sized to satisfy your cravings before the meal begins. Its delicate flavor profile makes it an ideal treat to pair with a variety of dishes, making it a crowd-pleaser in any setting.
Poqui Poqui
In various parts of West Africa, Poqui Poqui is a beloved side dish that brings together the flavors of eggplants, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. The dish is elevated with a topping of beaten eggs, adding richness and creaminess. This flavorful combination is often served alongside steamed rice, grilled fish, or fried meat, making it a satisfying accompaniment to a variety of main courses.
Tokwa’t Baboy
For beer enthusiasts seeking the ultimate pairing experience, look no further than Tokwa’t Baboy. This delectable dish is a match made in heaven when paired with Arroz Caldo. The harmonious combination of crispy tofu cubes and tender boiled pork, infused with a tangy sauce comprising vinegar, soy sauce, onion, and chili pepper sauce, will elevate your beer-to-food pairing to new heights.
The bottom line
When it comes to exploring the flavors of Filipino cuisine, it’s easy to overlook the humble side dishes that often accompany main courses. But don’t be fooled – these accompanying delights are truly worth savoring. Each bite is a masterclass in balancing sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors, leaving you craving more. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into some of the best Filipino side dish recipes out there and experience it for yourself.
Whether you’re planning a party or simply looking to spice up your meal routine, these authentic Filipino side dishes will be the perfect addition.
