Filipino cuisine is distinct, yet draws on many culinary influences and origins. It has dishes that run the gamut from salty and savory to spicy seafood concoctions. Here is a brief guide to its unique culinary history.

Spanish & Chinese Influences

The Spanish and Chinese shaped much of Filipino cuisine. Spain colonized the Philippines in the early 1500s, bringing new ingredients like tomatoes, grains, potatoes, and beef. During this period of colonization, the Philippines also saw an influx of Chinese immigrants, which resulted in stir fry, soy sauce, and noodles becoming more common.

Mexican & American Influences

Spain ruled the Philippines and Mexico at the same time, mingling the two cultures. One dish Filipinos picked up and made their own was tamales, which they make with rice flour and wrap in banana leaves. The U.S. also occupied the Philippines in the early 20^th century, culminating in Filipino cuisine incorporating American products like SPAM^®.

Signature Filipino Cuisine

Even with these foreign influences, there remain distinctly Filipino ingredients and flavors. One primary ingredient is vinegar, flavored with coconut, rice, cane, and palm. Many Filipino dishes are also made with shrimp paste, fish sauce, and other salty seafood to flavor dishes. A common misconception is that Filipino cuisine incorporates hot chili pastes and peppers because many think their dishes resemble those of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. However, hot dishes are only cooked in the south where there’s a predominantly Muslim population.

If you’re interested in trying authentic Filipino cuisine, look to Four Sisters Kitchen Catering in Wailuku, HI. This locally owned and operated company provides catering for events of all sizes, from wedding receptions to corporate gatherings, with affordable party bundles. They offer a mix of classic Filipino cooking, including kare-kare and pork adobo, and American favorites like prime rib and BBQ chicken. Those looking for Hawaiian cuisine will enjoy their laulau and kalua pork. Call (808) 242-1135 to learn more about their catering services, and view their menu online.