Pineapple juice is a beverage extracted from the fruit of the pineapple and is widely enjoyed around the world. Originally native to South America, pineapples spread to tropical regions such as Asia and Africa after the Age of Exploration in the 16th century. Today, large-scale cultivation is centered in countries such as the Philippines, Costa Rica, and Thailand. Pineapple juice is consumed not only as a straight drink but also as an ingredient in cocktails, cooking, and various processed foods. In the Philippines in particular, it is one of the major agricultural export products and is popular as a readily available beverage at airports and markets both domestically and internationally.
Yema is a traditional confectionery representative of the Philippines, primarily made from condensed milk, egg yolks, and sugar. Believed to have originated under Spanish colonial influence, the name "yema" means "egg yolk" in Spanish. It is characterized by its rich caramel-like sweetness and smooth texture, with variations in appearance and flavor depending on region and household. Widely cherished across the country, yema is easily available at airports, markets, and street vendors, making it a popular souvenir and snack for children.
Halo-halo is one of the most popular desserts in the Philippines, widely enjoyed by people of all ages, especially during the summer months. Its name means "mix" in Tagalog, reflecting its characteristic combination of ingredients such as shaved ice, condensed milk, ube (purple yam) paste, sweetened beans, fruits, jelly, leche flan (caramel custard), and ice cream. All these components are thoroughly mixed together before eating. There are many regional variations throughout the Philippines, and in recent years, halo-halo has gained attention internationally as a multicultural dessert.
Biscocho is a traditional baked confection from the Iloilo region of the Philippines. It is primarily made by rebaking bread and coating it with butter and sugar. Known for its long shelf life and simple sweetness, biscocho is enjoyed locally as a tea snack and a souvenir. Influenced by the Spanish colonial era, the treat has developed unique regional preparation methods and flavors, with the "Original Biscocho Haus" in Iloilo City being particularly renowned. Variations of biscocho can be found across the Philippines, and the snack shares cultural ties with similar confections around the world.
Puto is a traditional Filipino steamed cake made primarily from rice flour, and it has long been cherished as a confectionery in the country’s food culture. Characterized by its light sweetness and chewy texture, puto is enjoyed in various settings such as breakfast, snacks, and celebrations. There are numerous regional variations, with unique ingredients and toppings used across different areas. Widely sold at markets and food stalls and easily made at home, puto is considered a sweet closely connected to daily life in the Philippines.
Netong's La Paz Batchoy Mega (Miki Noodles) is one of the signature dishes offered by Netong's, a long-established restaurant renowned for serving La Paz Batchoy, a representative noodle dish originating from the La Paz district of Iloilo City, Philippines. This dish features a rich and flavorful broth topped with generous portions of meat, fried garlic, and chopped green onions, with its distinctive chewy and thick wheat noodles known as "miki." Widely loved by both tourists visiting Iloilo and local residents, its luxurious combination of beef and pork toppings embodies both the tradition and evolution of La Paz Batchoy.
La Paz Batchoy Extra Super is a particularly hearty and ingredient-rich variation of La Paz Batchoy, a noodle dish that originated in the La Paz district of Iloilo City, Philippines. La Paz Batchoy is known for its rich pork bone broth, noodles with egg, and a wide array of toppings such as organ meats and chicharrón. It is a staple in local long-established eateries and specialized stalls within markets. The Extra Super version maintains the traditional elements of La Paz Batchoy while further enhancing the quantity and flavor of its ingredients, making it widely popular.
Potato wedges are a dish made by cutting potatoes into large wedge shapes and either deep-frying or baking them. Widely enjoyed around the world, they are particularly common in casual dining, street food, and home cooking. They are often prepared with the skin left on, resulting in a distinct combination of a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. The choice of seasonings and dipping sauces varies by region and culture, and potato wedges are popular as a convenient snack or side dish.
Chicken skin is a snack or dish made primarily by deep-frying chicken skin. It is enjoyed in many regions around the world, especially in Southeast Asia, and is a popular staple at food stalls and restaurants in the Philippines. Characterized by its crispy texture and rich flavor, chicken skin is widely consumed as a snack or as an accompaniment to alcoholic beverages.
Lechon Paella is a popular dish in the Philippines that combines the traditional roasted whole pig known as "lechon" with the Spanish-influenced rice dish "paella." It is especially common in the Visayas region, including Iloilo, and is often served at special occasions such as festivals and family gatherings. Characterized by rice rich with the savory flavor of pork and a variety of colorful ingredients, the dish has many local variations.
