The rich culinary heritage of the Philippines has once again garnered international recognition as six Filipino dishes have made it to the prestigious "50 Best Pork Dishes in the World" list for 2024 by TasteAtlas. This accomplishment not only highlights the unique flavors of Filipino cuisine but also underscores the country's contribution to the global food scene.
A Testament to Filipino Culinary Excellence
The international food database TasteAtlas released the list on Monday, May 27, featuring the following Filipino dishes and their respective rankings: Lechon (#29), Lechon Kawali (#33), Bicol Express (#34), Inihaw na Liempo (#40), Adobong Baboy (#42), and Sisig (#46). Each of these dishes received high praise, with Lechon earning an impressive 4.3 stars.
Lechon, a staple in festive Filipino gatherings, proudly takes the 29th spot. Known for its crispy skin and tender meat, Lechon is often stuffed with a fragrant mix of lemongrass, tamarind, garlic, onions, and chives, then roasted over an open fire. Lechon Kawali follows closely in 33rd place. This deep-fried pork belly dish is usually accompanied by vinegar or lechon liver sauce and is cut into bite-sized pieces for easy enjoyment.
Bicol Express, a sliced pork dish soaked in a creamy coconut-based sauce and seasoned with shrimp paste and spicy chili peppers, is ranked 34th. Inihaw na Liempo, a barbecue favorite, is placed at 40th. It is popularly prepared as grilled pork belly marinated in soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Adobong Baboy, showcasing a Filipino adobo made with pork belly, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, bay leaves, salt, and peppercorn, stands at 42nd. Sisig, securing the 46th spot, is one of Pampanga's best dishes made by boiling, chopping, and grilling parts of a pig's head, then sizzling it with onions and spices.
Spotlight on Lechon: A Filipino Favorite
TasteAtlas described Lechon as "one of the most popular dishes in the Philippines," particularly during significant events such as weddings and Christmas celebrations. This culinary masterpiece is a reflection of its cultural and gastronomic importance in the Philippines. Its preparation is often seen as an art form, passed down through generations, and its presence at special occasions is a symbol of Filipino hospitality and celebration.
A Global Culinary Perspective
TasteAtlas is an online gastronomic publication that explores and features culinary cultures around the world. Its lists often include the Philippines, showcasing the nation's rich culinary traditions. This year's top spot went to Colombia's lechona, a dish similar to the Filipino Lechon, involving a whole roasted pig typically served during special occasions. Other notable dishes on the list include Singapore’s braised pork belly and char siu, Mexico’s carnitas, Korea’s samgyeopsal, ogyeopsal, and moksal, Japan’s tonkatsu, and the USA’s pulled pork.
