When life gets busy, the last thing you want to worry about is what to cook for dinner. That’s why I created this post about 12 Filipino dinner recipes that are perfect for those hectic weeknights. Filipino cuisine is not just about delicious flavors; it’s about creating comforting meals that bring people together. If you’ve ever found yourself craving a taste of home but thought you didn’t have the time to cook, this one’s for you.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or anyone trying to juggle multiple responsibilities, these recipes are designed with your needs in mind. You want meals that are not only quick to prepare but also nourishing and satisfying for the whole family. These traditional recipes will help you whip up home-cooked meals that feel like a warm hug on a plate.
In this collection, you’ll find everything from the classic Chicken Adobo to the comforting Arroz Caldo. Each recipe is easy to follow and uses ingredients you can find at your local market. What’s even better is that these dishes capture the essence of Filipino comfort food, allowing you to experience the rich flavors of the Philippines without spending hours in the kitchen.
So get ready to spice up your weeknights with these easy dinner ideas that promise to satisfy your cravings and nourish your soul. Let’s dive into these delicious recipes that bring the spirit of Filipino home cooking right to your dinner table!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 12 easy-to-follow Filipino dinner recipes that fit into busy weeknights.
– Learn how to make comforting dishes like Chicken Adobo and Pork Sinigang with minimal prep time.
– Enjoy meals that are both flavorful and wholesome, perfect for the whole family.
– Find ingredients that are accessible, making it easier to recreate these traditional recipes at home.
– Experience the warmth of Filipino cuisine, transforming your weeknight dinners into delightful gatherings.
1. Chicken Adobo
Craving something savory that hits the spot? Chicken Adobo is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with rich flavors from its soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic marinade. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings. Plus, the flavors deepen overnight, ensuring that leftovers are just as enticing as the first serving!
When you think of home-cooked goodness, adobo is at the top of the list. It’s hearty, satisfying, and pairs perfectly with steaming rice, making it a staple meal in many households.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1 cup vinegar (cane vinegar preferred)
– 1 head garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
– 2-3 bay leaves
– 2 tablespoons oil for sautéing
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for the best flavor.
2. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chicken (reserve marinade) and brown for about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the marinade, add bay leaves, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Cover and cook for 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
5. Serve over steaming rice and enjoy the rich flavors!
– For an extra layer of flavor, add some potatoes or hard-boiled eggs during the simmering step.
– Adjust the vinegar and soy sauce ratio for a more tangy or salty taste, as per your preference.
FAQs:
– Can I use other meats for adobo? Yes! Pork, beef, or even tofu can be fantastic substitutes.
– How do I store leftovers? Chicken adobo keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Chicken Adobo
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Feeling the need for a warm and comforting soup? Sinigang na Baboy is the perfect remedy, with its tangy flavor from tamarind and hearty chunks of pork. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for family dinners. It’s a beloved classic that brings the taste of home to every table!
The combination of tender pork and vibrant veggies makes this dish a delightful way to nourish both body and soul.
Ingredients:
– 500g pork belly, cut into chunks
– 1 medium onion, quartered
– 2 medium tomatoes, quartered
– 1 radish, sliced
– 1 eggplant, sliced
– 200g water spinach (kangkong)
– 2-3 tablespoons tamarind paste (or 1 cup fresh tamarind)
– 6 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork, onion, and tomatoes. Pour in water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the pork is tender.
3. Add radish and eggplant, cooking until they soften.
4. Stir in tamarind paste, adjusting the sourness to your preference.
5. Finally, add the water spinach and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with rice.
– You can substitute the pork with shrimp or fish for a lighter version.
– For an extra kick, add sliced green chili peppers during cooking.
FAQs:
– Can I make Sinigang without tamarind? Yes! You can use lemons or calamansi as a substitute for tanginess.
– How do I store Sinigang? It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Fun fact: Sinigang na Baboy can come together in about 30 minutes, yet it tastes like a slow-simmered classic. It’s a staple in filipino dinner recipes with tangy tamarind broth and chunky pork that turn busy weeknights into cozy meals you’ll want on repeat.
Sinigang na Baboy (Pork Sinigang)
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Looking for a delightful appetizer or a quick dinner option? Lumpiang Shanghai are crispy golden spring rolls filled with savory ground pork and veggies. These bites of goodness are not only perfect for gatherings but also make a satisfying meal when paired with rice and a tangy dipping sauce. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch that leaves you wanting more!
The versatility of this dish means it can be enjoyed any time of day, making it a true Filipino favorite.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground pork
– 1 cup finely grated carrots
– 1 onion, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lumpia wrappers (around 20)
– Oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine ground pork, carrots, onion, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Take a lumpia wrapper and place a tablespoon of the filling near one corner. Roll tightly, folding in the sides as you go.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the rolls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Drain on paper towels and serve with sweet and sour sauce.
– Keep your wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
– For an extra crunch, mix in some minced shrimp with the pork filling.
FAQs:
– Can I bake Lumpiang Shanghai instead of frying? Yes! Brush them with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes.
– How do I store leftover Lumpia? Cool them completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Lumpiang Shanghai (Filipino Spring Rolls)
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Craving something rich and hearty? Kare-Kare is a delicious oxtail stew that stands out with its unique peanut sauce. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, bringing everyone together with its satisfying flavors and comforting texture. It’s a delightful meal that pairs perfectly with steamed rice and shrimp paste for an authentic experience!
Each bite is a wonderful blend of flavors that evokes the warmth of home-cooked meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg oxtail, cut into pieces
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1 onion, quartered
– 2-3 eggplants, sliced
– 1 bunch of banana heart, sliced
– 1/2 cup bagoong (shrimp paste)
– 6 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, boil oxtail in water with onion for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until tender.
2. Once cooked, remove the oxtail and set aside, reserving the broth.
3. In a bowl, mix peanut butter with some reserved broth until smooth.
4. Return the oxtail to the pot, add eggplants, banana heart, and the peanut butter mix.
5. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot with bagoong on the side.
– For a vegetarian version, use jackfruit or tofu instead of oxtail.
– Pair it with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.
FAQs:
– Can I use other parts of the beef? Yes! You can also use beef shanks or brisket.
– How do I store Kare-Kare? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Kare-Kare (Oxtail Stew)
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In the mood for something spicy? Bicol Express delivers an exciting kick with its creamy coconut milk and chili peppers. This dish is usually made with tender pork, simmered to perfection, and is sure to awaken your taste buds. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for those nights when you need a little extra flavor in your meal!
Pair it with rice to balance out the heat and enjoy a truly satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 500g pork belly, sliced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons shrimp paste
– 2-3 long green chili peppers
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons oil for sautéing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat; sauté garlic and onion until translucent.
2. Add pork slices and cook until browned.
3. Stir in shrimp paste and green chilies, cooking for another 2 minutes.
4. Pour in coconut milk and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
– Adjust the number of chili peppers based on your heat preference.
– You can add vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant for additional flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I make Bicol Express without pork? Yes! You can use chicken or even tofu as a substitute.
– How long does Bicol Express last in the fridge? It can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Fun fact: Bicol Express stars in many Filipino dinner recipes because it’s both quick and comforting. This spicy, coconut-kissed dish can come together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights—so you can enjoy bold flavors without long hours in the kitchen.
Bicol Express
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Need a quick and colorful meal? Pancit Canton is a stir-fried noodle dish that combines a delightful mix of vegetables, meat, and seafood. This dish is a favorite for celebrations but is also perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty in a hurry. Its versatility allows you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand, ensuring that every bite is satisfying!
It’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, making it a fantastic addition to any dinner table.
Ingredients:
– 300g Pancit Canton noodles
– 200g chicken breast, sliced
– 100g shrimp, peeled
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups cabbage, shredded
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pancit Canton noodles according to package instructions, set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned. Mix in shrimp and vegetables, stir-frying for about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked noodles and add soy sauce, tossing everything together until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
– You can add any leftover meats or vegetables you have for a more hearty meal.
– Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra zing!
FAQs:
– Can I use other types of noodles? Yes! You can substitute with rice noodles or egg noodles based on your preference.
– How can I make Pancit Canton vegetarian? Use tofu and extra vegetables like snap peas or mushrooms instead of meat.
One of the easiest Filipino dinner recipes, Pancit Canton, packs color and flavor for weeknights. Chop, toss, and stir in under 20 minutes, and you’ll serve dinner that feels celebratory without the stress.
Pancit Canton
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In the mood for a hearty meal? Beef Tapa is a Filipino breakfast favorite that easily transitions into a delightful dinner option. This dish features marinated beef, pan-fried to a crispy perfection and served with garlic rice and a sunny-side-up egg. It’s a comforting dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals, making it a go-to for any occasion!
This quick and easy recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want something substantial without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef sirloin, sliced thinly
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper. Marinate the beef for 1 hour or overnight.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef, frying until crispy and browned on both sides.
3. Serve with garlic rice and a fried egg for a complete meal.
– Allowing the beef to marinate overnight intensifies the flavor.
– Try pairing it with achara (pickled green papaya) for a refreshing contrast.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken for Tapa? Yes, chicken can be marinated and prepared similarly.
– How do I store leftovers? Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Beef Tapa
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8. Arroz Caldo (Chicken Rice Porridge)
Feeling under the weather or just want something warm? Arroz Caldo is a comforting chicken rice porridge that is perfect for chilly nights. With flavors of ginger, garlic, and a hint of fish sauce, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying. Topped with green onions and served with a squeeze of lemon, it’s a cozy meal that warms the soul and fills the belly!
This dish is quick to prepare and is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice
– 500g chicken, cut into pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions and lemon for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add rice and reduce to a simmer.
4. Cook for about 25-30 minutes until the rice is soft and the porridge is creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving, garnished with green onions and lemon.
– For added flavor, include a bit of fish sauce when cooking.
– Serve with fried garlic on top for extra crunch!
FAQs:
– Can I make Arroz Caldo in advance? Yes! It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
– What if I want to make it vegetarian? Use vegetable broth and substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu.
Arroz Caldo (Chicken Rice Porridge)
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9. Ginataang Sitaw at Kalabasa (String Beans and Squash in Coconut Milk)
Craving a light yet flavorful vegetable dish? Ginataang Sitaw at Kalabasa features string beans and squash simmered in rich coconut milk. This classic Filipino recipe showcases the bounty of local produce and is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The sweetness of the squash balanced by the creaminess of the coconut creates a delightful flavor profile that’s both comforting and refreshing!
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, making it a filling meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup squash, peeled and cubed
– 1 can coconut milk (400ml)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
2. Add the squash and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
3. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add string beans, cooking for another 10-15 minutes until both vegetables are fully cooked.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
– Add shrimp or fish for extra protein if desired.
– Serve with rice for a complete meal.
FAQs:
– Can I use other vegetables? Yes! You can include eggplant or bitter melon for variation.
– How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Want to try something uniquely Filipino? Laing showcases dried taro leaves cooked in rich coconut milk, creating a dish that bursts with flavor. This staple from the Bicol region is known for its creaminess and spice, making it satisfying and delicious. It’s straightforward to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients, perfect for busy evenings when time is limited!
Laing can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, adding variety to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dried taro leaves
– 1 can coconut milk (400ml)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2-3 red chili peppers, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. In a pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and chili peppers until fragrant.
2. Add the dried taro leaves and pour in coconut milk. Simmer for about 30 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste before serving.
4. Enjoy with rice as a side or main dish.
– Serve with grilled fish or meat for a delightful combination.
– Adjust the number of chili peppers based on your spice preference.
FAQs:
– Is Laing spicy? It can be adjusted to your taste by controlling the amount of chili.
– How do I store Laing? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Laing (Dried Taro Leaves in Coconut Milk)
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Looking for a healthy and colorful dish? Chopsuey is a flavorful mixed vegetable stir-fry that puts a Filipino twist on traditional Chinese cuisine. Packed with nutrients, it is highly customizable, allowing you to include your favorite vegetables and proteins. Quick to prepare, chopsuey is a satisfying dinner option that appeals to both the eyes and the palate!
Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a hit on any dinner table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 1 cup carrots, sliced
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
– 200g chicken, sliced (or tofu)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oil for stir-frying
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir-fry chicken or tofu until cooked through, then set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry until slightly tender.
3. Return the cooked chicken or tofu to the skillet, add soy sauce, and toss everything together for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve hot with rice!
– Feel free to add snow peas, corn, or any other vegetables you love!
– For added flavor, consider tossing in some oyster sauce or sesame oil.
FAQs:
– Can I make Chopsuey vegetarian? Yes! Simply skip the meat and load up on the veggies.
– How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Looking to sweeten up your meal? Puto is a delightful steamed rice cake that is soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet. Often enjoyed as a snack or a side dish, this simple yet delicious dessert is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients that you likely already have at home. With its charming texture and flavors, Puto is a classic Filipino treat loved by many!
It’s the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rice flour
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– A pinch of salt
– Cheese slices for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually mix in coconut milk until a batter forms.
3. Pour the batter into small molds, adding a slice of cheese on top if desired.
4. Steam for about 20 minutes until cooked through and fluffy.
5. Serve warm as a delightful end to your meal.
– You can also add pandan or ube extract for a twist in flavor.
– Enjoy with butter or cheese for extra richness.
FAQs:
– Can I use all-purpose flour instead? Rice flour is preferred for its unique texture, but all-purpose flour can be a substitute.
– How should I store leftovers? Puto can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, just re-steam to warm up.
Puto (Steamed Rice Cake)
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Filipino dinners are more than just meals; they are experiences filled with rich flavors, cultural stories, and shared moments with loved ones. From the comforting warmth of Chicken Adobo to the delightful sweetness of Puto, these 12 recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. They promise to bring joy, comfort, and a taste of the Philippines into your home. Gather your family and friends, and enjoy these satisfying dishes that reflect the love and tradition of Filipino cuisine.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What makes these 12 Filipino dinner recipes ideal for busy weeknights?
These Filipino dinner recipes are crafted for home-cooked meals that fit a hectic schedule. They emphasize short prep times, one-pot or skillet methods, and pantry-friendly ingredients so you can get dinner on the table fast. Expect practical steps, easy marination, and options you can batch or repurpose for leftovers. By focusing on Filipino cuisine that stays true to tradition, they help you enjoy authentic flavors even on weeknights.
Question: Which recipes in the collection are quickest to prepare on busy weeknights?
Look for one-pot meals and skillet dishes described as quick or under 30 minutes. The collection highlights options that use simple ingredients and minimal steps, so you can have a satisfying dinner in a hurry. To speed things up, prep ingredients ahead of time, use pre-cut vegetables, and keep staples like rice, soy sauce, and canned coconut milk on hand. These tips help you stay true to Filipino dinner recipes and easy dinner ideas without sacrificing flavor.
Question: How can I adapt traditional Filipino recipes for faster weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor?
Try using pre-made sauces or pantry staples like soy sauce, fish sauce, and calamansi juice to keep the signature flavor intact. Swap long-simmered steps for a quicker simmer or a pressure cooker, and finish with bright toppings to mimic the classic profile. Batch-cook rice or sides, and repurpose leftovers into new meals so you still enjoy authentic Filipino cuisine without extra effort.
Question: Are these Filipino dinner recipes budget-friendly for families?
Absolutely. These home-style dinners are designed with everyday ingredients in mind, often using affordable proteins like chicken or pork and common vegetables. Save money by buying staples in bulk, using bones or skin for richer flavors, and repurposing leftovers for another meal. With these tips, you can serve comforting home-cooked meals that feel special while staying within a sensible budget.
Question: What makes these home-style Filipino dinners comforting and suitable for busy families?
They blend familiar Filipino cuisine flavors with practical cooking methods, turning traditional recipes into approachable weeknight meals. The emphasis on comfort food, straightforward steps, and batch-friendly options makes them perfect for families who want easy dinner ideas without spending all evening in the kitchen. You can tailor them to your taste—adjust spice, swap proteins, and choose sides—while keeping the core, comforting Filipino flavor.
Related Topics
Filipino dinner recipes
home-cooked meals
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traditional Filipino dishes
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