Fish in Filipino Cuisine

Monday, March 6th 2023

There are many types of fish that are well-regarded in Philippine cuisine, but here are some of the most popular:

  1. Bangus (Milkfish) - This is the national fish of the Philippines and is often referred to as the "king of fish". It is a popular ingredient in many Filipino dishes, such as sinigang and paksiw.

  2. Tilapia - This is a very versatile fish that is popular in Filipino cuisine. It is often fried, grilled, or used in soups and stews.

  3. Lapu-Lapu (Grouper) - This is a large saltwater fish that is prized for its firm, white meat. It is often steamed or grilled and served with soy sauce and calamansi (a Filipino citrus fruit).

  4. Tanigue (Spanish Mackerel) - This is a popular fish in Filipino cuisine due to its meaty texture and rich flavor. It is often grilled or fried and served with a dipping sauce made from calamansi and soy sauce.

  5. Tuna - This is another popular fish in the Philippines, particularly in the southern region. It is often grilled or used in soups and stews.

  6. Dilis (Anchovy) - These small fish are often used as a flavoring agent in Filipino dishes, such as pinakbet and kare-kare.

  7. Hito (Catfish) - This is a freshwater fish that is popular in many parts of the Philippines. It is often grilled or fried and served with a dipping sauce made from vinegar, garlic, and chili peppers.

  8. Sapsap (Ponyfish) - This is a small fish that is often used in Filipino soups and stews, such as sinigang and nilaga.

  9. Maya-Maya (Red Snapper) - This is a popular fish in the Philippines that is often used in soups, stews, and grilled dishes. It has a firm texture and a mild, sweet flavor.

  10. Alumahan (Long-jawed Mackerel) - This is a popular fish in the Philippines that is often grilled or fried and served with a dipping sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, and calamansi.

  11. Tamban (Sardines) - This is a small fish that is often used in Filipino dishes, such as sinigang and paksiw. It is also sometimes grilled or fried and served as a snack or appetizer.

These are just a few examples of the many types of fish that are well-regarded in Philippine cuisine. Fish is an important part of the Filipino diet, and many traditional Filipino dishes feature fish as a key ingredient.