Palawan isn’t just about breathtaking beaches and stunning landscapes, it’s also a paradise for food lovers! Get ready for a culinary adventure as we explore the delicious and unique dishes this beautiful island province has to offer. From fresh seafood grilled to perfection to exotic delicacies you won’t find anywhere else, Palawan is a must-visit destination for Filipinos who love to eat.
Fresh Seafood Galore
Let’s start with the obvious: seafood! Palawan, being an island province, boasts an abundance of fresh catches. Imagine yourself sitting by the beach, enjoying a plate of grilled fish, shrimp, and squid, all caught just hours before. Sounds amazing, right? Well, that’s Palawan in a nutshell. You can find these treats practically everywhere – from upscale restaurants to simple eateries along the shore. Be sure to try the grilled lapu-lapu (grouper), a local favorite known for its firm, white flesh and mild flavor.
Don’t forget to sample the giant prawns or tiger prawns. They’re usually grilled with just a touch of salt and pepper, letting the natural sweetness of the prawn shine through. Dip them in a little spiced vinegar for an extra kick. You can also find seafood cooked in a variety of ways, like sinigang (sour soup), adobo (braised in soy sauce and vinegar), or even made into kinilaw (Filipino ceviche) where the fish is “cooked” using vinegar and onions. If you’re feeling adventurous, look out for sea cucumber, a local delicacy that’s said to have health benefits.
The Iconic Tamilok: A Palawan Adventure
Okay, here’s where things get interesting. Have you heard of tamilok? It’s a woodworm found inside mangrove trees, and it’s considered a delicacy in Palawan. Now, before you run away screaming, give it a chance! It might sound strange, but many people describe the taste as similar to oysters. Preparation usually involves marinating the tamilok in vinegar, onions, and chili, and then eating it raw. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, but if you want to truly experience Palawan’s culinary offerings, give tamilok a try. Many restaurants in Puerto Princesa and other coastal towns will offer it.
Think of it as a culinary badge of honor! You can brag to your friends that you ate something truly unique and exotic. Just remember to ask locals or your tour guide for recommendations on where to find the freshest and safest tamilok.
Crocodile Sisig: A Bite of the Wild Side
Another unusual, but delicious, dish you might encounter is crocodile sisig. Crocodile farming is practiced in Palawan, and the meat is used in a variety of dishes. Sisig, typically made with pork, is a popular Filipino dish made with chopped meat, onions, chili peppers, and calamansi. In Palawan, they use crocodile meat as a substitute. The taste is often described as being similar to chicken, but with a slightly gamier flavor. Served sizzling hot, it’s a flavorful and unforgettable experience.
The Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, also known as the Crocodile Farm, is a popular tourist attraction. They also used to serve crocodile sisig (verify with the organization when you visit). Crocodile meat is leaner that other meat. It’s a good alternative if you want something different from your regular sisig.
Kinilaw: Palawan’s Fresh Catch Ceviche
Kinilaw, the Filipino version of ceviche, is a must-try in Palawan, thanks to the abundance of fresh seafood. The most common type of kinilaw uses fish, typically tuna or tanigue (Spanish mackerel), but you can find variations made with squid, shrimp, or even sea urchin. The fish is marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, onions, ginger, and chili peppers, giving it a zesty and refreshing flavor. This is prepared raw; avoid eating if you have a sensitive stomach.
The acidity of the vinegar and citrus “cooks” the fish, making it safe to eat. It’s best to consume it immediately to avoid spoilage. Kinilaw is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, especially on a hot day. It’s often served with a side of rice or crackers. Some vendors also add coconut milk for a richer, creamier version. If you love spicy food, ask for extra chili!
Ube Hopia: A Sweet Palawan Treat
Palawan is also gaining popularity for its ube hopia, a Filipino pastry filled with purple yam (ube). This treat is available at souvenir shops and other establishments around Palawan. It has a flaky crust and a creamy, sweet ube filling. It’s a great pasalubong (souvenir/gift) to bring back home for your friends and family. Another variation being offered is mongo hopia, using mung bean paste filling.
Some local bakeries have their own unique recipes, so don’t hesitate to try different brands and find your favorite. It’s best paired with coffee or tea. Aside from ube and mongo hopia, keep an eye out for other local delicacies and pastries, as Palawan has a growing selection of sweet treats to offer.
Lato (Seaweed Salad): A Healthy and Refreshing Side
Lato, also known as sea grapes or green caviar, is a type of seaweed that’s popular in Palawan. It’s often served as a salad with vinegar, onions, tomatoes, and sometimes ginger. The tiny, bubble-like texture of the lato gives a unique burst of flavor in your mouth. It’s a refreshing and healthy side dish that’s perfect to accompany grilled seafood or other Filipino dishes. The salty, slightly tangy taste of lato is a welcome contrast to the richer flavors of other dishes.
You can find lato in most restaurants around the island. It is believed that lato has health benefits such as being rich in vitamins and minerals. This may act as an antioxidant and may have anticancer properties. More research is needed to prove the said claims, however.
Cashew Nuts: A Palawan Staple
Palawan is known for its delicious cashew nuts. They are grown locally and roasted or processed into various products. You can find roasted cashews (plain or flavored), cashew brittle, cashew butter, and even cashew wine. Cashew nuts are a popular snack and pasalubong. Some stores offer free taste, so you can try different flavors before buying. Roasted cashews are available near your resort, hotels and airport.
Support the local farmers and industries, and be sure to bring home some cashew goodies. They taste especially good while you reminisce about your Palawan adventure. Palawan is considered as one of the top cashew producers in the Philippines. Their cashews have unique sweetness.
Danggit Lamayo: A Palawan Breakfast Staple
Don’t miss out on “Danggit Lamayo,” it’s a local favorite! “Danggit” refers to dried, salted fish, while “Lamayo” means it’s only briefly dried and marinated, giving it a softer texture and more savory flavor than traditionally dried fish. It’s typically served during breakfast along with garlic fried rice and egg. It stands out compared to other danggit variety because it isn’t deeply dried with salt. It preserves the flavor more than other types of danggit.
Danggit lamayo is a great example of Palawan’s culinary resourcefulness. It’s perfect for those who want simple yet flavorful seafood fares. Pair the danggit lamayo with native hot chocolate (tablea)!
Halo-Halo: The Quintessential Filipino Dessert
No food trip is complete without trying halo-halo, the ultimate Filipino dessert! While not exclusive to Palawan, you’ll find excellent versions of this treat all over the island. Halo-halo means “mix-mix” in Tagalog, and that’s exactly what it is – a mix of shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, jellies, leche flan, and ice cream, all topped with evaporated milk. It’s a sweet and refreshing way to beat the heat. Each vendor has their own style of halo-halo. Try different kinds to see which one you like best!
Locals claim that the best halo-halo places use shaved ice that’s soft and fine. Check the ingredients as well. If the place is using quality toppings, expect a more delectable and enjoyable halo-halo experience. Be sure to grab one on a hot day to refresh and recharge.
Beyond the Usual: Exploring Local Markets
For a truly immersive experience, visit the local markets. You’ll find a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and other local ingredients. It’s a great opportunity to see what the locals eat and to sample unique snacks and delicacies you might not find in restaurants. Chat with the vendors and ask them about their products. They’re usually happy to share their knowledge and recommendations. You can even buy some ingredients to cook your own Palawan-inspired dishes.
Don’t be afraid to try new things! You might discover your new favorite food. The Puerto Princesa City Public Market is a good place to start. You can also find smaller markets in other towns and villages around the province.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Palawan food:
What is the most popular food in Palawan?
Fresh seafood is definitely the most popular food in Palawan. Grilled fish, shrimp, and squid are readily available and incredibly delicious thanks to the fresh catches from the surrounding waters.
Is it safe to eat tamilok?
Yes, it is generally safe to eat tamilok, as long as it’s sourced from reputable vendors and prepared properly. Look for restaurants or vendors that have a good reputation for serving fresh and safe tamilok. Make sure it’s properly marinated in vinegar or citrus juice before consuming.
Where can I find authentic Palawan cuisine?
You can find authentic Palawan cuisine in local restaurants, eateries, and markets throughout the province. Ask your hotel or tour guide for recommendations on the best places to eat. Exploring local markets is also a great way to discover traditional dishes and ingredients.
What’s a good pasalubong from Palawan?
Popular pasalubong items from Palawan include cashew nuts (roasted, brittle, or butter), ube hopia, and local handicrafts. You can find these items in souvenir shops and markets around the island.
Are there vegetarian options in Palawan?
Yes, while Palawan is known for its seafood and meat dishes, there are vegetarian options available. You can find vegetable dishes like chopsuey, pinakbet (mixed vegetables in shrimp paste), and ginisang gulay (sauteed vegetables). Some restaurants also offer vegetarian versions of Filipino dishes like adobo or sinigang using tofu or mushrooms. Don’t forget about lato salad, which is naturally vegetarian. Communicate your dietary preferences to the restaurant staff, and they will usually be happy to accommodate you.
References:
1. Palawan Tourism Website
2. Philippine Department of Tourism Reports
3. Local Palawan Food Blogger Interviews
Ready to embark on your own Palawan food adventure? Don’t just dream about it – plan your trip today! Research flights and accommodations, make a list of the dishes you want to try, and get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience in Palawan. Share your delicious discoveries with us using PalawanFoodTrip and let’s inspire others to explore the flavors of this incredible island. Your taste buds will thank you!
