Filipino Pantry Essentials: what’s in my Filipino Pantry

A list of Filipino pantry essentials will guide you on what to stock in your pantry and help you discover the Flavors of the Philippines to achieve authentic Filipino flavors in your cooking.

Take your cooking to the next level with the authentic essence of Filipino culture straight from our pantry to your table. Our carefully curated list of Filipino pantry essentials offers a diverse selection of authentic ingredients, spices, and staples that bring Filipino cuisine’s vibrant and delicious flavors into your kitchen.

Filipino Pantry Essentials: What’s in my Filipino Pantry

Hey there, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the heart of Asian cuisine, specifically the hidden treasures lurking in a Filipino pantry. Whether you’re a culinary maestro or just starting your kitchen adventures, buckle up as we explore the vibrant world of flavors that define Filipino cooking.

 

Rice: The Grainy Foundation

Let’s kick things off with the cornerstone of Filipino meals—rice. It’s not just a side dish; it’s the canvas for a culinary masterpiece. I eat rice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is one of the dishes that I can’t live without. I have made several rice recipes in my Instant Pot and Rice Cooker.

Asian cuisine isn’t complete without mentioning basmati, jasmine, and sushi rice. These grains are not just grains but the building blocks of culinary wonders.

Fish Sauce (Patis) and Soy Sauce (Toyo): The Dynamic Duo

• Meet the Batman and Robin of Filipino cuisine. The fish sauce, Patis, brings a salty punch, while Toyo, the soy sauce, adds that savory kick. Together, they’re the flavor superheroes every Filipino dish needs. I use them in my cooking and my sauces. I use the fish sauce for this Vietnamese fish sauce, which I use as a dressing for my noodles.

Vinegar (Suka): The Filipino Sour Power

• Suka, the unsung hero in many kitchens, dances between marinades and dipping sauces, bringing that tangy zing to the party. Together with the soy sauce, you can make a simple Adobo Dish.

Garlic and Onions: Aromatic Allies

• Garlic and onions tag-team to give Filipino dishes their robust and savory character. They’re the unsung heroes, working behind the scenes to elevate every bite.

Cooking Oil: The Sizzling Sidekick

In the world of sautéing and frying, cooking oil swoops in to save the day. It’s the unsung hero that ensures your food crisps up just right. I use canola oil and roasted sesame oil to elevate the taste of my Gimbap Recipe.

Coconut Milk (Gata): Creamy Dreamy Elixir

• Enter Gata, the coconut milk that transforms desserts and savory dishes into creamy delights. It’s the magic touch that adds richness and depth. When I was in the Philippines, coconut milk was always fresh. Canned coconut milk will do here in the USA, so I always ensure they are available whenever I need them. I add coconut milk to my Bicol Express and my Ginataang Mongo. 

Dried Fish and Shrimp: Flavor Bombs

• Tinapa, Tuyo, and Alamang – these dried wonders are the secret weapons in Filipino kitchens. They elevate the taste, whether sprinkled over rice or woven into the dish’s fabric.

Annatto Seeds (Achiote): The Regional Stars

• Sukang Iloko, a vinegar made from sugar cane and Achiote seeds, is the artist behind vibrant colors in dishes like Kare-Kare, which add regional flair to the culinary palette.

Banana Ketchup: A Sweet Twist

• Yes, you read it right—banana ketchup. It’s not just a condiment; it’s a sweet and tangy surprise that adds a tropical twist to your taste buds. I use it for my Filipino-style spaghetti.

Calamansi and Bagoong: The Unique Twists

• Calamansi, a tiny citrus fruit, brings the sour notes, while Bagoong, fermented shrimp paste, introduces a distinct umami taste. They’re the rebels in the flavor revolution.

Asian Noodles: The Versatile Players

Ramen, rice noodles – the Asian noodle family is diverse. Stir-fry them, slurp them in soups, or toss them in salads; they’re always a delight.

Spices and Seasonings: Filipino Pantry Essentials

Basil leaves, lemongrass, and a dash of the unknown – that’s the secret behind the aromatic symphony of Asian dishes. It’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen.

Cooking Oils: The Culinary MVPs

Sesame oil and peanut oil bring their A-game to Asian cooking. Their unique flavors and high smoke points make them essential players in the kitchen drama.

Curry Paste: A Flavor Expedition

Curry paste, the heart of curries, comes in various flavors, unlocking a world of aromatic and flavorful journeys in every spoonful.

Sriracha: The Spicy Symphony

From noodles to burgers, Sriracha adds the perfect spicy crescendo, turning ordinary dishes into extraordinary ones.

Seaweed: The Oceanic Magic

Nori, kombu, and wakame are seaweed wonders that introduce a sea-like umami flavor to Asian soups and dishes, making them a nutritional powerhouse.

Sesame Seeds and Oil: Nutty Marvels

Sesame seeds and oil, the nutty wonders, sprinkle their magic as garnishes and flavor enhancers in Asian dishes, adding that delightful nutty touch.

Miso Paste: Japanese Elegance

Made from fermented soybeans, barley, or rice, miso paste brings a rich and savory elegance to soups, dressings, and marinades.

Fresh Herbs: The Grand Finale

Cilantro, Thai basil, and mint – these fresh herbs are the final brushstrokes, adding freshness and aroma to complete the masterpiece.

FAQs: Your Guide to Asian Pantry Mastery

Where to Find Asian Pantry Essentials?

Most of these gems can be unearthed in international grocery stores, bringing the taste of Asia to your doorstep.

Vegetarian Options in the Pantry?

Absolutely! Many essentials, such as rice, noodles, and spices, are vegetarian-friendly, ensuring everyone can savor the diverse flavors.

What Dishes Can You Whip Up?

The possibilities are endless – stir-fries, curries, sushi, noodle soups, and beyond. Your kitchen becomes a canvas for culinary creativity.

Substituting Ingredients: Is It Possible?

Indeed! If some ingredients are playing hide-and-seek in your local market, explore substitutes or get creative with your versions.

 

Shelf Life of Pantry Essentials?

Most of these kitchen warriors boast a lengthy shelf life, ensuring you can stock up and prepare for your next flavorful escapade.

So there you have it, fellow foodies! Dive into Filipino pantry magic, unlock the secrets of Asian cuisine, and let your taste buds embark on a flavor-packed journey. Happy cooking!