Top 10 Food Delicacies in Ilocos Region
Ilocos Region has been a source of cuisine that has been embraced by the entire country. Just say Pinakbet, and every person in any region would say that his or her mom cooks the best pinakbet. So in case you are curious to know more of the Ilokano cuisine this could be your good excuse to plan your next food travel.
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Here is the list of the top 10 delicacies in Ilocos Region:
Bagnet
Bagnet is a crispy, deep-fried pork belly dish that originated in Ilocos. The pork is seasoned with salt and garlic and fried until the skin is golden brown and crispy. It is often served with a side of vinegar dip and steamed rice.
Ilocos Empanada
Ilocos empanadas are different from the typical empanadas found in other parts of the Philippines. They are made with a bright orange dough filled with a mixture of ground pork, bean sprouts, and green onions. The empanada is deep-fried until crispy and served with a spicy vinegar dip.
Pinakbet
Pinakbet is a vegetable dish that is a staple in Ilocano cuisine. It is made with a mix of local vegetables such as bitter melon, eggplant, squash, and okra. The vegetables are sautéed with garlic, onions, and tomatoes, and then stewed in a mixture of bagoong (fish paste) and water.
Dinengdeng
Dinengdeng is another Ilocano vegetable dish that is similar to pinakbet. It is made with a variety of vegetables such as bitter melon, squash, and string beans, and cooked in a broth made with fish or shrimp paste. For many Ilocanos, dinengdeng is also known as Inabraw.
Ilocos Longganisa
Ilocos longganisa is a sweet and garlicky sausage that is usually served with rice for breakfast. The sausage is made with ground pork and a variety of spices such as garlic, sugar, and vinegar.
Igado
Igado is a hearty meat dish made with pork, liver, and vegetables. The pork and liver are cooked with onions, garlic, vinegar, and soy sauce, and then served with potatoes and carrots.
Inabraw
Inabraw is a soup made with various vegetables such as squash, eggplant, and okra, and cooked with fish or shrimp paste. It is a simple and healthy dish that is perfect for a cold day.
Ilocos Kakanin
Kakanin refers to a variety of rice cakes that are popular in Ilocos. Some of the most well-known kakanin include bibingka, puto, and suman. These are often sold in local markets and are perfect for snacks or dessert.
Tupig
Tupig is a sweet and sticky rice cake that is wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over hot coals. It is made with glutinous rice, coconut, and sugar, and is a popular snack in Ilocos.
Alaminos Longganisa
Alaminos Longganisa is a type of Filipino sausage that originated in the city of Alaminos, located in the province of Pangasinan in the northern Philippines. It is a small and thin sausage that is made from ground pork mixed with garlic, vinegar, and various spices.
Alaminos Longganisa is known for its distinct garlicky and slightly sour flavor. The sausage is typically sold in local markets and is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack, served with rice and a side of eggs.
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These are just ten of the best foods in Ilocos Region. When you travel to any of the provinces, be prepared to discover more famous ilocano cuisines that are not yet in the mainstream of Philippine cooking.
