24+ Quick and Delicious Ilocano Recipes You Can Make Today for a Taste of the Philippines!
If you’re looking for a way to spice up your kitchen, Ilocano cuisine is a fantastic place to start! Bursting with rich flavors and vibrant ingredients, these dishes are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s explore some quick recipes that will bring the taste of the Philippines right to your table!
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 15 min Total Time: 15 min.
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Bagnet is the crispy, crunchy dish that Ilocanos adore. This deep-fried pork belly is seasoned to perfection and is often paired with a savory dipping sauce. The contrast of the crispy skin and tender meat makes it a favorite among many!
1 kg pork belly
Salt
Pepper
Garlic (minced)
Water
Oil for frying
What makes Bagnet so popular is its irresistible crunch combined with juicy pork. Traditionally, it’s served with a spicy vinegar dipping sauce, which takes the flavor to a whole new level. You can enjoy it with rice or even in a savory salad—it’s your call!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 55 min Total Time: 55 min.
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This vegetable dish is a colorful and healthy choice that celebrates the best of local produce. With a mixture of fresh vegetables and shrimp paste, Pinakbet is both savory and slightly sweet. It’s comfort food that many Filipinos grew up loving!
1 cup squash (cubed)
1 cup eggplant (sliced)
1 cup string beans
1 onion (sliced)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
2 tbsp shrimp paste
Water
What makes Pinakbet special is the unique blend of flavors from the shrimp paste, which ties all the veggies together beautifully. This dish is not only nutritious but also a great way to showcase seasonal vegetables. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up on a busy day!
Rating: 4. Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.
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Ilocos is famous for its crispy empanadas stuffed with flavorful fillings. These golden pastries are perfect for a snack or as a delicious on-the-go meal. The combination of savory meat and spices wrapped in flaky dough is simply irresistible!
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup water
1 cup ground pork or beef
1 potato (diced)
1 onion (chopped)
Salt and pepper
Oil for frying
Making empanadas is like wrapping up a little piece of joy! You can customize the filling to your liking, and the golden crust is always a hit. These treats are perfect for parties, picnics, or just when you need a little comfort food.
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Pork tenderloin, pork liver, knorr pork cube, soy sauce, green peas Total Time: 55 min.
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Longganisa is the sweet and garlicky sausage that you’ll find in many Filipino breakfast plates. Each region has its own twist on this classic dish, but Ilocano longganisa is particularly known for its distinct flavors. Served with rice and eggs, it’s a breakfast that you won’t forget!
500g ground pork
1/4 cup garlic (minced)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp vinegar
Salt to taste
What sets Ilocano longganisa apart is its slightly sweet and aromatic flavor, making it a fantastic start to your day. These sausages are easy to make at home, and once you try them, you might find yourself craving them every morning. They’re delightful with steaming rice and a side of fried eggs!
This rich and hearty dish is often referred to as “blood stew” and is a traditional favorite in Ilocano kitchens. Dinardaraan is made with pork and pig’s blood, simmered with spices for a deep, savory flavor. It’s not only delicious but also a unique culinary experience!
500g pork (cut into pieces)
1 cup pig’s blood
2 cups water
1 onion (chopped)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2-3 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
The key to Dinardaraan is slowly cooking it to develop a rich flavor while maintaining a tender texture. This dish is often served with rice and is a great way to introduce adventurous eaters to traditional Filipino cooking. It’s a meal that tells a story and warms the heart!
Inabraw is a delightful Ilocano soup that showcases a variety of fresh vegetables and protein. This dish is light yet flavorful, often enjoyed during the hot months. The combination of herbs and spices makes it a refreshing and nourishing meal!
1 cup water
1 cup mixed vegetables (like spinach, eggplant, and squash)
1/2 cup fish or shrimp (optional)
1 onion (sliced)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste
What makes Inabraw special is its versatility; you can use whatever vegetables are in season or available in your kitchen. This soup is often enjoyed with a side of rice and is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your meals healthy and colorful!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 55 min Total Time: 55 min.
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Chicharrón is the crunchy snack that everyone loves! Made from deep-fried pork skin, this dish is perfect for munching on while watching your favorite show or as an appetizer for gatherings. The crispy texture and salty flavor are simply addictive!
This crunchy snack is often enjoyed with vinegar or a spicy dipping sauce, making it a favorite among friends and family. Chicharrón is a party staple in many households, and once you try making it at home, you’ll be hooked! It’s a great way to impress guests with your cooking skills!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Red onion, tomatoes, eggs, garlic, black pepper Total Time: 25 min.
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This eggplant dish is a popular Ilocano recipe that’s both simple and delicious. Poqui Poqui is made by grilling eggplants until they are smoky and then mixing them with eggs, creating a creamy and flavorful dish. It’s often served as a side or a main dish with rice.
2 medium eggplants
2 eggs
1 onion (chopped)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for sautéing
What makes Poqui Poqui so special is its simplicity and the delightful combination of flavors. The smoky taste of the grilled eggplants combined with the richness of the eggs creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of day. It’s quick to make and will surely become a family favorite!
