Now that we’ve covered meals, it is just right that we dive into the exciting and delicious world of Filipino street food!
To make things interesting, I’ve decided to separate savory snacks from sweet ones. This way, it’ll be easier for you to navigate your trip around your taste buds’ needs.: Let’s start with the savory delights!
Filipino Street Food: Savory Snacks You Must Try
Filipino Street Food: Balut (A Must-Try for the Brave)
One of the most beloved and exotic savory street foods in the Philippines is the iconic Balut. This unique delicacy consists of a fertilized duck egg, boiled, and eaten with a dash of salt or vinegar. It’s a must-try for the adventurous foodie, offering a rich, savory taste with a touch of broth.
As previously mentioned in my food article, I enjoy eating Balut, but like some, I can’t eat the baby chick inside. If you’re similar, you can still taste Balut without the underdeveloped chick. You may also ask for “Balut sa Puti,” which refers to a smaller, less developed chick, helping you avoid seeing a full baby bird and feeling crunchy beaks and fluffy feathers.
Filipino Street Food: Tamilok (Palawan’s Exotic Delicacy)
Our second snack may not be as widely known, but it’s an absolute must-try when visiting Palawan: the infamous Tamilok!
Tamilok is a local delicacy that might surprise the uninitiated, often referred to as a “woodworm,” but is actually a type of mollusk found in the mangroves of Palawan. It is typically served fresh with a drizzle of vinegar or calamansi juice, offering a unique taste reminiscent of oysters.
For those willing to embrace this adventurous culinary experience, Tamilok provides a soft texture and a briny flavor that captures the essence of the sea.
Filipino Street Food: Kwek-Kwek (Crispy Street Snack Favorite)
Next on the list is Kwek-Kwek, a beloved snack that traditionally uses quail eggs (though nowadays, chicken eggs are commonly used). These eggs are coated in a bright orange batter and deep-fried until they reach a crispy perfection.
They are often enjoyed with a zesty vinegar dip or a sweet and spicy sauce, providing a burst of flavor in every bite.
Filipino Street Food: Fish Balls and Classic Street Bites
Another staple are Fish Balls, which are skewered and deep-fried until golden brown. They are traditionally served with a selection of dipping sauces, ranging from sweet to spicy, allowing for a personalized flavor experience.
Then don’t skip on the irresistible aroma of Pork Barbeque, Adidas (yes, named after the shoe brand, it is a marinated and grilled chicken foot), and Isaw (grilled chicken intestines on skewers).
Be sure to dip them in vinegar to savor that delightful sweet and sour combination we adore. Plus, this delicious feast can also serve as a fantastic dinner option – just add rice!
Filipino Street Food: Palabok
And now, for my favorite snack – Palabok. Palabok uses rice noodles as its base, topped with a thick sauce made from shrimp, ground pork, and crispy pork skin (chicharron). Often, this dish comes with a hard-boiled egg on the side. The sauce is rich and garlicky, going perfectly with the smooth rice noodles.
Filipino Street Food: Siomai
Lastly, don’t miss out on Siomai, a type of dumpling filled with pork or shrimp, steamed and served with soy sauce, calamansi, and chili garlic oil. It’s a favorite among locals for its savory, spicy, and comforting taste.
These savory street foods not only satisfy hunger but also offer a glimpse into the vibrant culinary culture of the Philippines. So, be sure to indulge in these treats and discover the rich flavors they bring to the table!
Filipino Street Food: Sweet Treats You’ll Love
Now, let’s talk about sweet treats—the delicious snacks we all crave after every meal.
Filipino Street Food: Dirty Ice Cream
Starting fresh with the cold and refreshing “Dirty Ice Cream” – it is not dirty, it is just called that because it is sold on the streets – with familiar flavors of cheese, chocolate, langka (jackfruit), buko (coconut), or sometimes ube.
Dirty ice cream is quite rare these days, but if you see one, I highly recommend ordering some on BREAD, yes bread. It is a very Filipino thing to eat ice cream with a bun and it works! So, while you’re at it, you might as well do it the Filipino way!
Filipino Street Food: Taho
Second on this list but a first to many, Taho – a beloved Filipino snack we all grew up with in the 90’s (and sometimes breakfast) that brings comfort and joy to many. Taho is a warm, sweet treat made from silken tofu, arnibal (a brown sugar and vanilla syrup), and sago pearls.
Vendors often roam the streets early in the morning, calling out to passersby with a distinct “TahoOoOoOOooo!” chant, inviting everyone to indulge in this delightful concoction.
Served in a cup and best enjoyed fresh, offers a creamy texture balanced by the sweetness of the syrup and the chewiness of the sago. It’s a perfect way to start your day or enjoy a heartwarming snack anytime.
Filipino Street Food: Bibingka
And let’s not forget about Bibingka, a traditional rice cake that embodies the festive spirit of the Philippines, especially during the Christmas season.
Cooked in clay pots lined with banana leaves, Bibingka is often topped with salted duck eggs and grated coconut, offering a unique blend of savory and sweet flavors. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as a holiday treat, bibingka is sure to warm both your heart and your taste buds.
Filipino Street Food: Turon and Banana Cue
For your afternoon coffee breaks, consider indulging in some Turon (fried bananas with sugar, sometimes accompanied by jackfruit, all wrapped in a spring roll wrapper), or savor the delicious Banana Cue (fried bananas coated in sugar and served on skewers).
Filipino Street Food: Pan De Coco
You might also enjoy freshly baked Pan De Coco (sweetened coconut-filled bread) from the local bakery.
Why Filipino Street Food Is a Must-Try Experience
These sweet treats perfectly complement the savory flavors and showcase the diverse and delightful world of Filipino street food.
So, whether you’re wandering through bustling markets or exploring quaint streets of El Nido, don’t miss the chance to taste these mouthwatering snacks that celebrate the rich culinary traditions and vibrant culture of the Philippines.
Written by Choco
