International Influences in Filipino Cuisine:

Spain, the colonial power presiding over the area, has a huge influence on Filipino cuisine. Joaquin Cruz, a Filipino native and food enjoyer reminisces with a watery mouth, “Spanish tastes and textures give Filipino food its distinct voice, and really make it stand out”. The Philippines has perhaps the longest and most devout Christmas season and celebrates its Catholic identity with feasts featuring local takes on Spanish dishes like lechon, puchero, fabada, and paella, infused with indigenous spices.

One of the most notable tastes in Filippino cuisine comes from across the seas to the northwest, finding it’s origins in 11th century China. Early Chinese traders were the first to replicate many noodle dishes using Filippino cuisine, creating meals like Lumpia egg rolls.