Filipino street food is a vibrant and integral part of the country’s culinary landscape. You will find these delicious delicacies in urban centers and quiet provincial towns. The aroma of grilled meat, the sizzle of frying pans, and the colorful display of street vendors invite locals and tourists to indulge.
In this guide, we shall delve into the diverse and flavorful world of Philippine street food, exploring famous delicacies and addressing the question on many minds: should you eat it?
Isaw
Isaw is a must-try Filipino street food for those who enjoy grilled food. It is a skewered and grilled chicken or pork intestine seasoned with a flavorful marinade.
This smoky, savory snack offers a satisfying chewiness that’s perfect with a side of vinegar-based dipping. Isaw is a popular choice for locals seeking a quick and tasty bite on the go.
Balut
Balut is the most iconic and controversial street food in the Philippines. It is a fertilized duck egg, typically sold at night, and it tests the limits of culinary adventurousness. The egg is boiled and the embryo is allowed to develop before consumption.
Filipinos enjoy balut due to its unique combination of textures and flavors, with some likening it to a savory custard. However, it is definitely not for the faint of heart. Should you eat it? If you are one to embrace culinary adventure, then yes!
Fish Ball and Kwek-Kwek
Fish Ball and Kwek-Kwek are more approachable introductions to Filipino street food. They are very popular and available any time of the day, mostly late into the afternoon.
Fish balls are deep-fried round snacks made from fish paste, while kwek-kwek consists of quail eggs coated in orange batter – both are deep-fried to perfection. These snacks are served with various dipping sauces, allowing you to customize the flavor.
The affordability and accessibility of fish balls and kwek-kwek make them staples of street food culture, enjoyed by people of all ages. Should you try it? Definitely!
Taho
Switching gears from savory to sweet, taho is a beloved Filipino street food that satisfies sweet cravings. This comfort food consists of warm silken tofu topped with arnibal (caramelized brown sugar) and sago pearls (similar to tapioca).
Taho vendors have a distinct call as they navigate through the neighborhood carrying large containers suspended from poles, so they’re easy to spot. Taho is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, offering comfort and sweet respite from the savory options on the streets. We highly recommend that you try this.
Betamax and Adidas
Betamax and Adidas are unique and daring options to try in the world of Filipino street foods. And no, they are not related to any electronics or sports apparel.
Betamax refers to skewered and grilled chicken or pork blood, while Adidas is skewered and grilled chicken feet. These unconventional choices may sound intimidating, but for many locals, they are savory snacks that showcase the resourcefulness of Filipino street cuisine.
While they might not be for everyone, Betamax and Adidas provide an exciting glimpse into the culinary creativity that defines Flipino street food. It’s up to you if you want to try it, but it’s something you shouldn’t miss when visiting the country.
Turon
Another sweet escape from the savory and adventurous options, turon is perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Also known as banana lumpia, turon consists of bananas, and sometimes jackfruit, rolled in a spring roll wrapper, then deep-fried until golden brown. The result is a crunchy and caramelized treat that strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and a hint of savory.
Turon is a popular summer dessert, often enjoyed as a delightful ending to a flavorful street food adventure. If you’re craving sweet treats, then you must have a turon.
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The diverse world of Filipino street food is a testament to the country’s rich culinary heritage. From the bustling and trendy streets of Manila to the markets of Cebu and Davao, the vibrant array of food options provides a unique opportunity to engage with the local culture and savor the flavors of the Philippines.
Furthermore, we implore you to explore more Filipino street food as these examples only scratch the surface of the country’s delicacies. As to whether you should eat them? The answer lies in your willingness to embark on a culinary experience and embrace the delectable diversity of Filipino street food.
For more articles about Filipino food, check out this page.
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Featured image by The Chola Tolentino Collection
