Filipino cuisine, traditionally known for its rich use of meat and seafood, is evolving to embrace plant-based dishes. For those adopting a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, the Philippines offers a variety of flavorful alternatives that capture the essence of its food culture.
One popular vegetarian dish is Laing, a spicy stew made from dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk, often seasoned with chili and shrimp paste. Although traditional Laing uses shrimp paste (bagoong), it can easily be made vegetarian or vegan by replacing it with plant-based seasoning like soy sauce or miso.
Another well-loved Filipino vegetarian dish is Pinakbet, a vegetable medley typically made with squash, eggplant, bitter melon, okra, and string beans. Traditionally flavored with fish sauce, it can be adapted to suit vegan and vegetarian diets by using plant-based alternatives like fermented soybeans or coconut aminos for a similar savory depth of flavor.
For a vegan alternative to the popular Adobo, one can use tofu, seitan, or tempeh in place of chicken or pork. Adobo is a vinegar-based stew, and its tangy, umami-rich sauce pairs beautifully with vegetables and plant proteins, making it a staple for plant-based eaters.
Gising-Gising is another dish that has made waves in the plant-based community. This dish is often made with ground meat and vegetables but can be easily veganized by substituting the meat with tofu or tempeh. The dish gets its kick from chili peppers and coconut milk, giving it a creamy yet spicy flavor that is hard to resist.
Sinigang, a sour soup made with tamarind, is one of the most beloved Filipino dishes. It’s typically made with pork or shrimp, but a vegan version can be prepared using mushrooms, eggplant, and other vegetables. The tangy broth made with tamarind or other souring agents remains the key flavor, while the vegetables absorb its deliciously sour and savory taste.
Filipino cuisine may have been historically centered around meat, but as dietary preferences evolve, the availability of plant-based ingredients has made it easier for vegans and vegetarians to enjoy traditional dishes in a whole new way.
