We need not look far to indulge in some culinary luxuries—here are six local and decadent Filipino ingredients you should try
With a slew of commendable, modern Filipino concepts opening its doors both locally and abroad, it truly does feel as if we are witnessing a Filipino food renaissance. As a result, curious diners are introduced to artisanal and regional Filipino ingredients, celebrated through ingenious dishes that give credence to our rightful place on the global table. Get acquainted with six local, decadent ingredients our country has to offer below:
See also: Filipino Food—How Can We Go Further? Margarita Forés, Chele Gonzàlez, And More Speak Out
1. Asin Tibuok
An artisanal product rooted in Boholano culture, asin tibuok (also spelled asin tibook) is a highly sought-after salt that takes three to seven months to produce. Often dubbed “dinosaur egg salt,” the indigenous ingredient boasts a uniquely smoky, earthy, yet light and clean flavour profile and has been utilised by some of the country’s top chefs, from Toyo Eatery’s Jordy Navarra to Linamnam Manila’s Don Baldosano. However, the tedious, laborious, but culturally significant tradition of producing asin tibuok has slowly dwindled over the last couple of decades, inspiring many to advocate for its protection.
See also: Bohol’s Asin Tibuok: Protecting the Culinary Heritage of the Philippines Through Salt