You know you’re a certified Pinoy when… Christmas 2021 is a four-month-long celebration!
Greeting your loved ones with a “Merry Christmas” in the month of December is a normal occurrence. But Filipinos always have a way of making things a little more special than usual– and unique. You know what they say, “It’s More Fun in the Philippines!”. Parols, night markets, and Jose Mari Chan’s original rendition of “Christmas In Our Hearts”, enters the scene as early as September. And tell you what, Christmas 2021 is no different at all!
Despite the still prevalent pandemic, Pinoys have, then again, proved that Philippine traditions during “Kapaskuhan” are deep-rooted and are still intact. Although face shields, face masks, and health protocols are still at play, Christmas 2021, for the Filipinos, is still a season to be jolly and should be shared with loved ones.
Now that Christmas 2021 is a few weeks away, planning and preparations for the much-awaited “handaan” for Noche Buena may still be a long list to fill for some. Now, make sure you have your pen and paper as we give you our 21 Tatak Pinoy Noche Buena Recipes that your families and friends will surely love. Let’s dig in!
Macaroni Salad. A delectable treat jammed with pasta, raisins, egg, ham, and cream! This easy-to-prepare dish can be enjoyed by everyone as it gives a sweet yet mild explosion of flavors.
Hotdogs with Marshmallows on a stick. Kids are always eyeing colorful and quirky edibles – which is why whether for Birthday parties or even now, Christmas Eve dinner, Hotdogs, and Marshmallows on a stick are always the way to go!
Barbecue. Pork Barbecue is comprised of thinly-sliced pork bits marinated and coated with seasonings and spices to make it more flavorful. Barbecues are usually cooked over burning charcoal, leaving it toasted with a smack of flavorful spices.
Lumpiang Shanghai. A famous Filipino “pika-pika” food, Lumpiang Shanghai, a never-not-present dish when it comes to Filipino gatherings. “Giniling” or ground meat as its major ingredient, is rolled in a thin egg wrapper ready for frying.
Sliced Queso De Bola. Edam cheese or more commonly known as “Queso De Bola”, is another Yuletide season indicator in the Philippines. It is a semi-hard cheese housed in a thick red waxing to preserve its content.
Hot Chocolate or Tsokolate De Batirol. Tsokolate de batirol is a cold season drink traditionally crafted from pure tablea or cacao beans. Add a bit of milk and a sprinkle of marshmallows on top to seal the deal. One sip will surely up the cozy vibes.
Wine. Most commonly made from fermented grapes. Here in the Philippines, wine flavors may vary from its components, origin, and even container. Other than the usual selection of red and white wine from local markets, you might want to try Cordillera’s version of Rice wine or “tapey” uniquely made from distilled rice.
Morcon. A meat dish accompanied with sausage, hotdogs, carrots, egg, cheese and pickles. All ingredients are rolled out together to form a Sausage-like shape with surprises on the inside.
Pancit. Pancit or “Pansit” is a noodle dish found in Filipino cuisine. A generous amount of vegetables and meat are included in this treat. A fresh squeeze of Calamansi juice adds a slightly-sour flavor that complements the dish.
Roasted Chicken. Showered with lots of spices, Roasted Chicken, deemed to be another must-have dish on the Christmas table. Garlic, rosemary, salt, pepper, are the most common ingredients, but in making one, you can freely add your own holiday touch!
Ham. Ham, a perfectly-cut pork leg preserved by either wet or dry curing under the process of smoking, drying, and salting. Its net marks are profound marks of the process that it has gone through. Serve it with the side dish of your choice and see the whole family enjoy this delicacy.
Rellenong Bangus. This stuffed fish recipe, mostly served during special occasions, is consists of “Bangus” or milkfish, onion, garlic carrot, and raisins, which can all be found on the inside as the fish filling.
Crispy Pata. Deep-frying and boiling are the processes involved in making Crispy Pata. Filipinos adore its crunchy outside golden color with a soft and juicy inside. Add “Laurel” leaves or Bay leaves to give the pork a flavor that works wonders!
Paella. Rice has always been a staple on a Filipino dining setup – but have you tried Paella? Paella, a rice dish made from rice, saffron, vegetables, chicken, and seafood that are all cooked together in one pan.
Lechon Kawali. Any major Filipino salu-salo will never be complete without the deep-fried pork belly slab, Lechon Kawali. Packed with rich flavors from fresh meat and spices, Lechon Kawali is, a sure, crowd favorite.
Kaldereta. Like any other Filipino home, Kaldereta is a go-to! This is a delicacy that showcases stew-cooked beef, peas, bell pepper, carrots, potatoes in tomato sauce. The colors are a perfect representation of Filipino culture, which makes it popular during occasions.
Ube Halaya. Halayang Ube, a classic Filipino dessert made from purple yam, butter, and coconut milk or “gata”. It’s deep purple color is well-loved by Pinoys, as well as its not-so-sweet flavor. Uncles, aunties, Lolo’s, and Lola’s will surely love this!
Leche Flan. A Filipino dessert made up of eggs and milk, with a hint of caramel that adds to its sweetness. Festivities in the Philippines are never complete without serving these as desserts!
Puto Bumbong. Usually seen prepared and sold outside churches, and are deemed as “Simbang gabi” snack, Puto Bumbong is a purple rice cake, accompanied by Muscovado sugar, butter, and shredded coconut.
Buko Pandan. Served with Gelatin bars, Pandan leaves, cream, and coconut, Buko Pandan is a delight especially to Filipino households. Its green pigment comes from the gelatin that spreads nicely once stirred.
Fruit Salad. Think of all the fruits that you’d want to add, mix them in with the cream, and voila! Let it chill overnight to let the flavors set. This dessert is truly quick and easy that even the kids can help in preparing!