Ilocos, located on the north-western coast of the Philippines, is known for its unique culture and cuisine. From its crispy and flavorful bagnet to its savory and spicy pinakbet, Ilocos has a variety of dishes that are sure to tickle your taste buds.
One of the most famous dishes in Ilocos, however, is its iconic empanada.
The Ilocano empanada is similar to the Spanish version of the dish with one key difference – it has a special filling made from green papaya, longanisa or pork sausage meat, garlic, onions, and eggs. The ingredients are wrapped in a dough made from flour and lard which gives it a distinct flavor and crunchy texture when deep-fried.
The Ilocano empanada is typically served as an appetizer or snack but can also be enjoyed for lunch or dinner with a side of rice or bread. It has become a popular street food in many parts of the Philippines due to its convenience and affordability. Many vendors can be seen selling these delicious snacks on street corners throughout Ilocos.
What makes this dish even more special is that it has been around for centuries! Its origin dates back to the early Spanish colonization period when they introduced wheat flour to the locals. Over time, they adapted it into their own version of empanada that eventually became a local favorite.
In conclusion, the most famous food in Ilocos is undoubtedly their empanada. It’s a dish that has been around for centuries but still remains as popular as ever due to its distinct flavor and crunchy texture. Whether you have it as an appetizer or snack or enjoy it for lunch or dinner with rice or bread – you are sure to love this iconic dish from Ilocos!