When I was in high school, I used to go to my friend’s house almost every day after school. His mom was Filipino, and she would be so excited that guests were over. She was always so eager to cook and feed her guests. It got to a point where she would just make me meals without knowing I was coming over. She was so hospitable and charitable. I just remember her telling me stories about the Philippines and how wonderful it is and how great the people are. That was my introduction to Filipino food – warm and comforting. My Filipino friends later informed be that this is universally a “Filipino mom thing”. These wholesome feelings come through in Filipino cuisine.
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Filipino food has evolved over time, because so many countries have influenced their culture. It is hard to pinpoint what is exclusively Filipino as it has changed drastically. There are hints of Chinese, Indian, Arabian, Hispanic, and American flavors. I feel it is the best of both the Eastern and Western world. The only downfall (for some) to Filipino cooking is of its high fat content, but that viewpoint may change in a few years time!
I’ve dabbled in cooking Filipino food, but not nearly as much as I want to. It never ends up right or I don’t have the time to invest! And the thing is, the only time I ever get Filipino food is from a friend. There are hardly any Filipino restaurants where I live. If you’re like me and have to learn how to make Filipino food yourself, you’re in luck. With these 5 Filipino cookbooks we will be in business!
If you want to learn more about the Philippines culturally and about their food, Milkier Pigs & Violet Gold: Philippine Food Stories cookbook needs to have a place on your bookshelf. This is an extension of Bryan Koh’s earlier critically acclaimed cookbook Milkier Pigs & Violet Gold: Philippine Food Stories. The newly released cookbook has 20 additional recipes and stories, but if you don’t have his first book, that includes over 200 recipes from all over the country. One of my favorite features of this book is the local folklore!
I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by it’s cover, but My Filipino Kitchen looks magnificent. Home cook Christina Ygoña Nelson takes us on a journey through the Philippines through her eyes. There are only 21 authentic Filipino recipes throughout this book, but they are definitely worth a look through. In addition, Christina Ygoña Nelson shares stories and memories of her homeland that will make you fall in love with this beautiful country.
Enjoy the comforts of Filipino cooking with the Filipino Cookbook: Taste the Philippines with Delicious and Easy Filipino Recipes. This cookbook makes cooking Filipino food simple and easy! There are all the Filipino classics and some unique recipes that will encourage you to explore what Filipino cuisine has to offer.
The FILIPINO COOKBOOK: BOOK1, FOR BEGINNERS MADE EASY STEP BY STEP is something I desperately need. This is a genuine breakdown of each dish including best tools, techniques, and ingredients! This cookbook is perfect for a true beginner.
I adore my pressure cooker, so if a recipe calls for it I am more than happy to use it! There are 75 delightful Filipino recipes in The Filipino Instant Pot Cookbook: Classic and Modern Filipino Recipes for Your Electric Pressure Cooker cookbook. This cookbook is absolutely perfect, because a lot of Filipino recipes require a long time to cook. The Instant Pot shortens the cook time substantially and maintains the flavor! I cannot wait to try this out.
Bring the delights of Filipino cuisine home with any of these 5 Filipino cookbooks. Each dish is so delicious and feels like a warm embrace. I can’t think of anything better to eat and cook than Filipino food during the cold season! The best introductory dishes are lumpia and biko – they are to die for!
~Kaiti