10 Best Vegetarian-Friendly Dishes in the Philippines

The Philippines is known for its flavorful and diverse cuisine, and even vegetarians can partake in the deliciousness. Here are the 10 best vegetarian-friendly dishes in the Philippines that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

1. Lumpiang Sariwa - Fresh Vegetable Spring Rolls Lumpiang Sariwa is a popular Filipino appetizer that consists of fresh vegetables wrapped in a thin crepe-like wrapper. The filling is usually a combination of julienned carrots, bean sprouts, cabbage, and sometimes tofu, all seasoned with a sweet and savory sauce. It is a refreshing and healthy vegetarian dish that is perfect for a light meal or a snack.

2. Adobong Gulay - Vegetable Adobo Adobo is a staple Filipino dish, but it's usually made with meat. However, with Adobong Gulay, you can enjoy the tangy and savory flavors of adobo without the meat. This dish features a mix of vegetables like eggplant, okra, and string beans, simmered in a sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. It is a comforting and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.

3. Pancit Palabok - Noodle Dish with Vegetarian Sauce Pancit Palabok is a Filipino noodle dish that is popular during special occasions. Traditionally, it is made with shrimp sauce, but a vegetarian version can be equally delicious. Instead of shrimp sauce, the noodles are topped with a vibrant and flavorful sauce made from annatto seeds, tofu, and various vegetables. It is then garnished with crushed chicharon (fried pork rinds), fried tofu, and green onions.

4. Ginataang Gulay - Mixed Vegetables Cooked in Coconut Milk Ginataang Gulay is a comforting and creamy Filipino dish made with mixed vegetables cooked in coconut milk. The combination of vegetables like squash, string beans, eggplant, taro, and spinach, cooked in a rich coconut milk broth, creates a velvety and aromatic dish that is packed with flavor. It is best enjoyed with steamed rice.

5. Tofu Sisig - Spicy Stir-Fried Tofu Sisig is a popular Filipino dish that is typically made with meat, but vegetarians can still enjoy this spicy and flavorful dish with tofu. Tofu Sisig is made by stir-frying tofu in a tangy sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and calamansi (Filipino lime). It is then topped with onions, chili peppers, and sometimes crushed chicharon. The result is a mouthwatering dish with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

6. Ampalaya Guisado - Sauteed Bitter Melon Ampalaya Guisado is a simple yet delicious Filipino dish made with sautéed bitter melon, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Despite its bitter taste, the unique flavor of the bitter melon is mellowed out by the other ingredients, resulting in a savory and slightly bitter dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. It is often eaten with fried fish or tofu and enjoyed with steamed rice.

7. Laing - Taro Leaves in Coconut Milk Laing is a popular Filipino dish from the Bicol region, made with taro leaves cooked in coconut milk and spices. The taro leaves absorb the flavors of the coconut milk and become tender and flavorful. The addition of chili peppers gives it a subtle heat that adds dimension to the dish. Laing is usually enjoyed with steamed rice and provides a comforting and satisfying meal for vegetarians.

8. Sinigang na Bayabas - Guava Soup with Vegetables Sinigang is a sour soup that is typically made with meat or seafood, but a vegetarian version can be just as delicious. Sinigang na Bayabas is made with guavas, which give the soup a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Mixed vegetables like taro, eggplant, okra, and radishes are added to create a hearty and nutritious soup that is perfect for any season.

9. Pinakbet - Stewed Vegetables in Shrimp Paste Pinakbet is a classic Filipino dish that features an assortment of vegetables cooked in shrimp paste. However, vegetarian versions use soy-based shrimp paste or fermented tofu as a substitute. The combination of vegetables like squash, eggplant, okra, bitter melon, and string beans creates a colorful and flavorful dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is best enjoyed with steamed rice.

10. Chopsuey - Stir-fried Mixed Vegetables Chopsuey is a stir-fried vegetable dish that originated in Chinese-Filipino cuisine. It typically consists of a variety of vegetables like cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, snow peas, and mushrooms, stir-fried in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings. Chopsuey is a versatile dish, and you can add tofu, seitan, or mock meat for extra protein. It is a satisfying and nutritious vegetarian dish that is enjoyed by many.

Vegetarian options in the Philippines are diverse and delicious. From fresh spring rolls to hearty stews and flavorful stir-fries, these 10 vegetarian-friendly Filipino dishes will satisfy any vegetarian's cravings. So, the next time you're in the Philippines, be sure to try out these dishes and immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Filipino vegetarian cuisine.