Vigan, in the Philippines, isn’t just about old houses and horse-drawn carriages. It’s a place where you can taste amazing Ilocano food! This article will take you on a delicious journey through some of the most popular and authentic Ilocano dishes you can find in Vigan, explaining what they are, where to find them, and why they’re so special.
What Makes Ilocano Food Special?
Ilocano food is known for being simple, flavorful, and often a little bit salty. One key ingredient is bagoong, a fermented fish paste. Don’t let that scare you! It adds a unique umami flavor that makes Ilocano dishes so memorable. They also use lots of fresh vegetables and local ingredients.
Must-Try Ilocano Dishes in Vigan
Let’s dive into some dishes you absolutely have to try when you’re in Vigan:
Pinakbet
Pinakbet is probably the most famous Ilocano dish. It’s a vegetable stew made with eggplant, bitter melon (ampalaya), squash, string beans, okra, tomatoes, and, of course, bagoong. Some versions also include pork or shrimp. What makes pinakbet so special is the way all the different flavors blend together. The bitterness of the ampalaya is balanced by the sweetness of the squash and the saltiness of the bagoong. It’s often cooked in a clay pot, which adds to the earthy flavor. You can find Pinakbet in almost any restaurant in Vigan that serves Ilocano food.
Bagnet
Bagnet is a crispy, deep-fried pork belly. It’s similar to lechon kawali, but many people say the Ilocano version is even crispier. The pork is boiled first, then air-dried, and finally deep-fried until golden brown and incredibly crunchy. The secret to perfect bagnet is getting the skin super crispy while keeping the meat tender. It’s often served with a dipping sauce of bagoong or vinegar with onions and chili. Bagnet is a bit richer than Pinakbet, so it makes a great contrast. Look for restaurants specializing in Ilocano cuisine, especially those that advertise “crispy bagnet.”
Longganisa de Vigan
Longganisa de Vigan is a type of Filipino sausage that’s unique to Vigan. It’s garlicky, savory, and a little bit sour. It’s smaller and plumper than other types of longganisa. The Vigan longganisa is made with ground pork, garlic, vinegar, and other spices. What sets it apart is the use of a special type of vinegar and the way it’s cured. It’s usually fried until crispy and served with rice, fried egg, and vinegar dipping sauce. You can find Longganisa de Vigan everywhere in Vigan, from breakfast spots to restaurants selling souvenirs. Don’t leave Vigan without trying it for breakfast!
Sinanglaw
Sinanglaw is a sour and savory Ilocano soup. It’s made with grilled pork, beef tripe (sometimes), onions, ginger, and kamias (a sour fruit). The kamias gives the soup its distinct sourness. Sinanglaw is often eaten as a hangover cure or as a comforting soup on a rainy day. It’s a bit of an acquired taste, but if you like sour soups, you should definitely give it a try. Some restaurants might not always have it on the menu, so it’s best to ask if they offer it.
Poqui-Poqui
Poqui-Poqui (pronounced “poke-eh poke-eh”) is a simple but delicious Ilocano vegetable dish. It’s made with grilled eggplant, tomatoes, and eggs. The eggplant is grilled until soft and smoky, then mashed and mixed with the other ingredients. It’s a healthy and flavorful dish that’s often served as a side dish or a light meal. Poqui-Poqui is a good option if you want something vegetarian or something lighter than bagnet or longganisa. You can find this dish in many local restaurants.
Dinengdeng
Dinengdeng is another Ilocano vegetable stew similar to Pinakbet but has some key differences. It’s made with squash blossoms (bulaklak ti kalabasa), string beans, bitter melon, and other vegetables, and it’s flavored with bagoong isda (fermented fish sauce) and grilled or fried fish. The fish adds a smoky flavor to the stew. Dinengdeng is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold day. Like Pinakbet, the specific vegetables used can vary depending on what’s in season. The bagoong isda is crucial to the flavor profile of dinengdeng. Look for restaurants specializing in Ilocano cuisine to find this dish.
Imbaliktad
Imbaliktad, which literally means “turned over,” is a unique Ilocano beef dish. Thin slices of beef tenderloin are quickly stir-fried with ginger, garlic, onions, and soy sauce. What makes it special is that it’s cooked very quickly, so the beef remains tender and slightly rare. It’s important not to overcook the beef, otherwise it will become tough. The sauce is simple but flavorful, highlighting the natural taste of the beef. It’s often served with rice and a side of vegetables. Some restaurants serve it with a raw egg yolk on top for extra richness. Ask if this is an option when ordering. Because it requires high-quality beef, not all restaurants will offer Imbaliktad. Inquire specifically about it.
Warek-Warek
Warek-Warek is an Ilocano dish made from grilled pig ears and face. It’s finely chopped and mixed with onions, ginger, vinegar, and spices. Some versions also include mayonnaise. It’s seasoned very well and has a unique texture due to the pig ears. The dish is then typically served on a sizzling plate, similar to sisig. The flavor is a combination of savory, tangy, and spicy. It’s considered an appetizer or a pulutan (food eaten with drinks). This dish may not be for everyone, but if you are adventurous, it’s worth a try. Look for restaurants that specialize in Ilocano “pulutan” dishes.
Kilawing Kambing
Kilawing Kambing is an Ilocano version of the popular Filipino dish kinilaw, but made with goat meat (kambing). The goat meat is marinated in vinegar, onions, ginger, chili, and other spices. The vinegar “cooks” the meat, similar to ceviche. It’s a sour, spicy, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for hot weather. The goat meat gives it a unique, gamey flavor. Kilawing Kambing is often served as an appetizer or a pulutan. Finding this can be challenging, so ask the locals about restaurants that have it.
Where to Find the Best Ilocano Food in Vigan
Vigan is full of restaurants and eateries where you can try Ilocano food. Here are some tips on finding the best spots:
- Explore Calle Crisologo: Many restaurants along this famous street offer Ilocano dishes, but be aware that some might be more tourist-oriented.
- Venture Beyond the Tourist Spots: Look for smaller, local eateries (“carinderias”) in the side streets and residential areas. These often serve more authentic and affordable Ilocano food.
- Ask the Locals: The best way to find hidden gems is to ask the locals for their recommendations. They know where to find the tastiest and most authentic food.
- Check Online Reviews: Websites like TripAdvisor and Google Maps can be helpful for finding restaurants with good reviews, but take them with a grain of salt.
Remember that the best food experiences often come from venturing off the beaten path! Don’t be afraid to try new things and explore different restaurants.
Tips for Enjoying Ilocano Food
- Be Open-Minded: Ilocano food can be different from what you’re used to, so be open to trying new flavors and textures.
- Don’t Be Afraid of Bagoong: Bagoong is a key ingredient in many Ilocano dishes. Even if you’re not a fan of fish sauce, give it a try – you might be surprised!
- Ask About Spice Levels: Some Ilocano dishes can be quite spicy, so if you’re not a fan of spicy food, ask the server to tone it down.
- Order a Variety of Dishes: Try a few different dishes to get a taste of the full range of Ilocano flavors.
- Drink Local Beverages: Pair your meal with local beverages like fresh fruit juices or basi (a traditional Ilocano rice wine).
A Note on Basi
Basi is a traditional Ilocano alcoholic beverage made from fermented glutinous rice. It has a sweet and slightly tangy flavor. It’s often served during special occasions and celebrations. It’s quite potent. If you’re interested in trying Basi, ask your server if they have it available. Some restaurants might also offer other local wines and liquors.
The Cultural Significance of Ilocano Food
Ilocano food is more than just a way to satisfy hunger. It’s a reflection of the Ilocano culture and history. The simple ingredients and cooking methods reflect the resourcefulness and resilience of the Ilocano people. Many Ilocano dishes are also tied to specific traditions and celebrations. For example, inabraw (a simple vegetable soup) is often served during family gatherings, while tinubong (rice cake cooked in bamboo tubes) is a popular treat during the Christmas season.
How Ilocano Food is Evolving
While traditional Ilocano food remains popular, some chefs and restaurants are also experimenting with modern interpretations of classic dishes. They’re using new techniques and ingredients to create innovative and exciting versions of Ilocano favorites. This helps to keep Ilocano cuisine alive and relevant for future generations. For instance, you might find bagnet served in a gourmet burger or longganisa used as a pizza topping. This is not to replace traditional dishes but rather to enhance the Ilocano cuisine experience.
Visiting Local Markets for Ilocano Ingredients
To get a deeper appreciation of Ilocano food, consider visiting a local market. You can see the fresh produce, seafood, and other ingredients that are used in Ilocano cooking. It’s also a great opportunity to interact with local vendors and learn more about the region’s culinary traditions. Vigan Public Market is a good example. You can find fresh local produce, meat, and seafood there.
A Day of Food Tripping in Vigan: A Sample Itinerary
Here’s a sample itinerary for a day of food tripping in Vigan:
- Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast of Longganisa de Vigan, fried egg, and rice at a local eatery.
- Mid-morning: Visit the Vigan Public Market to see the fresh ingredients used in Ilocano cooking.
- Lunch: Head to a restaurant specializing in Ilocano cuisine and order Pinakbet, Bagnet, and Dinengdeng.
- Afternoon: Take a break from eating and explore Calle Crisologo and other historical sites in Vigan.
- Evening: Enjoy a dinner of Imbaliktad or Kilawing Kambing at a local restaurant.
- Late Evening: Sample Warek-Warek with friends while enjoying local beer or Basi.
Bringing Ilocano Flavors Home
If you enjoy Ilocano food, you can bring some of the flavors home with you. Many stores in Vigan sell local products like bagoong, Longganisa de Vigan, and other Ilocano delicacies. You can also find recipes online and try cooking Ilocano dishes yourself. This will help you relive your Vigan culinary adventure and share the flavors of Ilocos with your friends and family.
FAQ Section
What is the most popular Ilocano dish?
Pinakbet is arguably the most popular Ilocano dish. It’s a vegetable stew flavored with bagoong, and it’s a staple in Ilocano cuisine.
Is Ilocano food spicy?
Some Ilocano dishes can be spicy, especially those that contain chili peppers. However, you can always ask your server to adjust the spice level to your liking.
Where can I find the most authentic Ilocano food in Vigan?
The best way to find authentic Ilocano food is to venture beyond the tourist spots and explore smaller, local eateries. Ask the locals for their recommendations.
What is bagoong?
Bagoong is a fermented fish paste that is a key ingredient in many Ilocano dishes. It adds a unique umami flavor to the food.
What is Basi?
Basi is a traditional Ilocano alcoholic beverage made from fermented glutinous rice. It has a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
Can I find vegetarian options in Ilocano cuisine?
Yes, dishes like Pinakbet, Poqui-Poqui, and Dinengdeng can be made without meat. Just be sure to specify that you want a vegetarian version, as some versions may contain pork or shrimp.
What is Longganisa de Vigan made of?
Longganisa de Vigan is made with ground pork, garlic, vinegar, and other spices. It’s smaller and plumper than other types of longganisa and has a distinctive garlicky and slightly sour flavor.
Is it safe to eat street food in Vigan?
As with any travel destination, it’s important to be cautious when eating street food. Choose vendors that appear clean and hygienic and make sure the food is cooked thoroughly. Eating at well-known restaurants or establishments with good reputations is a good alternative.
Are there any food tours available in Vigan?
Yes, some tour operators offer food tours of Vigan. These tours can be a great way to discover the best local restaurants and try a variety of Ilocano dishes. Search online or ask your hotel for recommendations.
What should I do if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to inform the restaurant staff before ordering. They can help you choose dishes that are suitable for you and make any necessary adjustments.
Where can I buy Longganisa de Vigan to bring home as a souvenir?
Longganisa de Vigan is widely available in Vigan Public Market, local supermarkets, and souvenir shops along Calle Crisologo.
Ready to Experience Ilocano Cuisine in Vigan?
This is just a taste of the amazing Ilocano food that awaits you in Vigan. So, pack your bags, book your trip, and prepare for a culinary adventure you won’t forget! Explore the vibrant streets, discover hidden culinary gems, and savor the authentic flavors of Ilocos. Don’t just see Vigan – taste it! Come and experience the rich heritage and amazing flavors of Ilocano cuisine!
Plan your trip today and discover the delicious side of Vigan!
References
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