Modern Filipino

Bacon macaroni salad

I love macaroni salad especially when it has so much in it — celery, carrot, pickle relish, crushed pineapple, meat, cheese… I have to admit though that there are times when I want more — more color, more texture and more flavor. Bacon is the answer.

Cook time: 15

Servings: 4 people

Pork belly estofado

A sweet sour and salty meat stew that blends Spanish, Chinese and Filipino food traditions.

Cook time: 1 20

Servings: 6 people

Beef pares

A meal that hails from the Philippines, pares (pah-res), literally “pair”, means a combination of rice and protein, usually very tender stewed beef. Brisket, short ribs, flank or shanks are ideal for making beef pares.

Cook time: 2 30

Servings: 4 people

Smoked fish, salted duck eggs and tomato spring rolls

Crispy wrapper, filling that is at once salty and tangy with an irresistible smoky flavor and aroma, these spring rolls can be served as an appetizer or paired with rice for a complete meal.

Cook time: 10

Servings: 4 people

Oysters adobo

While Filipino adobo is traditionally a meat stew, it is possible to cook something similar with seafood. Yes, there is a way to prevent overcooking oysters while still allowing them to soak up the garlicky-pepper-salty-sour flavors of adobo. You'll lose none of the natural briny goodness of the oysters either.

Cook time: 7

Servings: 4 people