Street food in the Philippines is an important part of the culture that every visitor should try. The unique flavors and lively atmosphere make it a fun experience.
As you walk through local markets and streets, you will find many delicious choices:
Kwek-kwek - These are quail eggs dipped in bright orange batter and deep-fried. They are crispy outside and soft inside served with a sweet and spicy sauce.
Siomai - This is a popular dumpling made with ground meat, usually pork or shrimp, mixed with vegetables. It is wrapped in a thin pastry and steamed. Siomai is often served with a soy-based dipping sauce and sometimes topped with calamansi or chili for extra flavor. Many locals enjoy siomai at food stalls and markets.
Tempura - This dish consists of seafood or vegetables that are battered and deep-fried until crispy. The batter is made from cold water and flour. Tempura is usually served with a dipping sauce called tentsuyu, which is a mix of dashi, soy sauce, and mirin, along with grated daikon radish. You can find tempura in street food stalls and restaurants in the Philippines.
Fish balls - These are round fish cakes that are deep-fried and sold on skewers. You can choose from different dipping sauces—sweet, spicy, or tangy.
Kekiam - This is a deep-fried roll filled with ground meat, usually pork and shrimp, seasoned with various spices. The filling is wrapped in a thin pastry and served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce. Kekiam is a favorite snack in markets and food stalls.
Cheese balls are a popular street food snack found in various countries, including the Philippines. They are typically made from a mixture of cheese and other ingredients, formed into small, round balls, and then deep-fried or baked until golden and crispy on the outside.
In the Philippines, cheese balls are often made using a blend of processed cheese or mozzarella, mixed with flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together. Sometimes, they may be seasoned with spices or herbs to enhance the flavor. Once formed, these balls are coated in batter and fried, creating a delicious outer crust while the inside remains gooey and cheesy.
Cheese balls are usually served with a dipping sauce, which can range from sweet to spicy, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite. They are often enjoyed as a quick snack or appetizer, perfect for satisfying cravings while on the go. Their crispy texture and melty cheese make them a hit among both locals and visitors looking to experience Filipino street food delights!
Visiting street food stalls lets you enjoy these dishes while meeting locals and seeing everyday life in the Philippines. The lively atmosphere and the smells of grilled and fried food create an exciting experience. Make sure to try these tasty treats when you visit!
photo collage edited by canva