Filipino Foods That Captivate Korean Travelers

Filipino cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors, with rich influences from indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American culinary traditions. For Korean travelers, the unique tastes and textures of Filipino dishes are an exciting exploration. From savory and hearty to sweet and tangy, Filipino food offers something for every palate. As Korea’s proximity to the Philippines has made it a popular travel destination for Koreans, the variety of food experiences available has become an essential part of the trip. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most beloved Filipino dishes that captivate Korean travelers and make their culinary journey unforgettable.

 

1. Adobo – The Filipino Comfort Food

One of the first dishes Korean travelers try when visiting the Philippines is adobo. Adobo is considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines and is widely recognized for its savory, slightly tangy, and deeply aromatic flavor profile. Made with pork, chicken, or beef, adobo is marinated in a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns before being simmered until tender.

 

What makes adobo particularly appealing to Korean travelers is its similarity to Korean braised dishes like jjim (찜), where meat is slow-cooked with a flavorful sauce to absorb all the savory goodness. The balance of salty, sour, and umami flavors in adobo makes it a satisfying meal, and it is often enjoyed with a serving of steaming white rice, a common pairing in both Korean and Filipino dining culture. Whether served with pork or chicken, the comforting flavors of adobo leave a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it.

 

2. Sinigang – A Refreshing Filipino Soup

For Korean travelers who enjoy a refreshing, tangy soup, sinigang is an absolute must-try. This Filipino dish is a sour soup made with tamarind, which gives it a distinctive tartness. Traditionally, sinigang is made with pork, shrimp, or fish, and is filled with vegetables like water spinach (kangkong), eggplant, and radish, making it a nutritious and flavorful dish.

The similarity to Korean dishes like kimchi jjigae or doenjang jjigae lies in the way sinigang is enjoyed: it’s comforting, hearty, and perfect for any meal. The bold sourness of the soup provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavor of the meat, and its warm nature makes it an ideal dish for any time of the day, especially in cooler weather. Filipino families often serve sinigang during gatherings, and for Korean travelers, this dish offers a taste of home with a delightful twist.

 

3. Lechon – The Star of Filipino Feasts

No Filipino food experience would be complete without trying lechon, a roasted whole pig that is often the centerpiece of Filipino celebrations. The pig is marinated with a blend of spices, herbs, and citrus juices, then slowly roasted over an open flame, resulting in crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. The rich flavor and succulent texture of lechon make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

 

For Korean travelers, lechon is especially captivating because it’s reminiscent of Korean-style gogi-gui (고기구이), where grilling meat is an integral part of social gatherings. The crispy skin of lechon adds a satisfying crunch, and the tender meat is full of savory, aromatic flavors. This dish is often served with a rich, vinegar-based dipping sauce, making it even more flavorful. For many Koreans, the experience of savoring lechon with family and friends during a special occasion brings about a sense of familiarity and joy, all while introducing them to the distinct flavor profile of Filipino cuisine.

 

My Thoughts on Filipino Cuisine

As a Korean traveler who has explored the Philippines, I can say that the Filipino food scene is one of the highlights of any trip to the country. The bold and diverse flavors of Filipino dishes, combined with their unique cultural significance, make dining in the Philippines an unforgettable experience. What I particularly love about Filipino cuisine is how it brings people together. Just like in Korea, food plays an essential role in Filipino family and community gatherings.

The warmth of adobo, the refreshingly sour taste of sinigang, and the indulgent, crispy lechon all offer a delicious insight into Filipino culture and tradition. For Korean travelers, these dishes serve as a bridge between two rich culinary traditions, offering familiar yet new experiences with each bite.

 

Filipino cuisine has a way of captivating not just your taste buds, but also your heart. The authenticity, generosity, and soulfulness of each dish are what make Filipino food a must-try for anyone visiting the country. So, if you ever find yourself in the Philippines, make sure to immerse yourself in the local food scene—it will definitely be one of the most memorable parts of your travel journey.