There’s nothing quite like a rainy day in the Philippines. The sound of raindrops tapping on the roof, the cool breeze blowing through the windows, and the comforting aroma of homemade Filipino dishes wafting through the house. When the weather gets gloomy, Filipinos turn to their beloved comfort foods to warm their hearts and tummies. Let’s explore some of the most cherished Filipino comfort foods that are perfect for those rainy days.
What’s Inside
- Sinigang
- Arroz Caldo
- Champorado
- La Paz Batchoy
- Lugaw
- Ginataang Bilo-Bilo
- Sopas
- Bulalo
- Tinola
- Goto
- Hot Chocolate
- Lomi
1. Sinigang
Sinigang is a sour soup that’s a staple in many Filipino households. Made with a variety of meats like pork, shrimp, or fish, and loaded with vegetables such as kangkong (water spinach), sitaw (long beans), and eggplant, this dish is known for its tangy and savory broth. The sourness typically comes from tamarind (sampalok), but other souring agents like calamansi, green mango, or even guava can be used.
The hot, sour, and savory soup of sinigang is incredibly comforting on a cold, rainy day. The warmth of the soup and the hearty ingredients make it a go-to meal to chase away the chill. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables and protein in one delicious bowl.
Related: Filipino Food: 10 Best Filipino Dishes That Will Satisfy Your Appetite
2. Arroz Caldo
Arroz Caldo, a rice porridge infused with ginger and garnished with garlic, is another rainy day favorite. Often made with chicken, it’s a thick, savory dish that provides comfort and warmth. The addition of kasubha (safflower) gives it a distinct yellow color and a subtle flavor.
This dish is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. The chicken provides protein, the rice gives you energy, and the ginger and garlic are great for boosting the immune system—perfect for keeping colds at bay during the rainy season.
3. Champorado
Champorado is a sweet chocolate rice porridge made with glutinous rice and cocoa powder or tablea (pure cocoa blocks). It’s traditionally served with a swirl of condensed milk or evaporated milk on top. Some even enjoy it with dried fish (tuyo) for a sweet and salty combination.
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of champorado. The rich, chocolatey flavor is like a hug from the inside, making it a perfect treat to enjoy while listening to the rain patter outside.
4. La Paz Batchoy
Originating from Iloilo, La Paz Batchoy is a hearty noodle soup that features a rich, savory broth made from pork bones, beef, and shrimp. It’s filled with miki (egg noodles), pork meat, liver, and sometimes chicharon (pork cracklings). It’s garnished with scallions, fried garlic, and a raw egg which cooks in the hot broth.
The complexity of flavors and the warmth of the broth make La Paz Batchoy an excellent choice for a rainy day. It’s a complete meal in itself and provides a delightful mix of textures and tastes that can lift your spirits on a gloomy day.
5. Lugaw
A simple yet comforting dish — lugaw is a rice porridge that’s similar to arroz caldo but less elaborate. It’s usually just rice cooked in a ginger-flavored broth, often served with a hard-boiled egg and a dash of fish sauce or soy sauce for flavor.
Lugaw is incredibly easy to make and can be customized with various toppings such as fried tofu, pork rinds, or slices of chicken. Its simplicity and versatility make it a comforting dish that’s perfect for warming up on a rainy day.
6. Ginataang Bilo-Bilo
Ginataang Bilo-Bilo is a sweet dessert made with sticky rice balls, sweet potatoes, saba bananas, and jackfruit, all cooked in coconut milk. The chewy rice balls (bilo-bilo) and the sweetness of the fruits make this a delightful treat.
The rich coconut milk and the chewy texture of the bilo-bilo create a unique and comforting dessert. It’s a perfect way to end a meal on a rainy day, offering a sweet and satisfying finish.
7. Sopas
Sopas is a creamy macaroni soup made with chicken, hotdogs, vegetables, and milk. This soup is often served with a sprinkle of shredded cabbage and carrots, making it a colorful and nutritious meal.
It’s loved by both kids and adults. The creamy broth, tender macaroni, and chunks of chicken and hotdogs make it a hearty and satisfying dish. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly, rainy day.
8. Bulalo
Bulalo is a hearty beef shank soup that is slow-cooked to perfection. The marrow-rich bones and tender beef create a broth that’s incredibly rich and flavorful. It’s often served with corn on the cob, cabbage, and potatoes.
The warm and savory broth of bulalo is perfect for rainy days. The tender beef and marrow add a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. This dish is a true indulgence that warms you up from the inside out.
9. Tinola
Tinola is a chicken soup flavored with ginger, garlic, and onions, and typically includes green papaya and malunggay (moringa) leaves. This light yet nourishing soup is a staple in many Filipino households.
The combination of ginger and chicken makes tinola a soothing and healthy option, especially during the rainy season. The ginger provides warmth and helps with digestion, while the chicken and vegetables offer a nutritious and comforting meal.
10. Goto
Goto is a type of lugaw that includes beef tripe. The rich and flavorful broth, combined with tender tripe, makes this dish incredibly satisfying. It’s typically garnished with spring onions, garlic chips, and a squeeze of calamansi for a burst of freshness.
The heartiness of goto makes it a filling meal that’s perfect for rainy days. The combination of textures from the soft rice, tender tripe, and crunchy toppings creates a delightful eating experience.
11. Hot Chocolate
Tsokolate is a traditional Filipino hot chocolate made from tablea (pure cacao tablets) melted in hot water or milk. It’s often whisked with a batirol (wooden whisk) to create a frothy and creamy texture.
A cup of hot chocolate is perfect for warming up on a rainy day. The rich, thick chocolate is deeply satisfying and pairs wonderfully with many Filipino snacks and desserts, like suman or pandesal. It’s an ideal way to cozy up and enjoy the rainy weather.
12. Lomi
Lomi is a thick, hearty noodle soup made with egg noodles, a rich, flavorful broth, and various toppings such as pork, chicken, shrimp, kikiam (fried meat roll), fish balls, and vegetables. It’s often thickened with cornstarch and topped with beaten eggs.
The thickness and heartiness of lomi make it an ideal comfort food for rainy days. The rich broth, chewy noodles, and assortment of toppings provide a satisfying and filling meal that warms you up and leaves you feeling content.
Rainy days in the Philippines are made warmer and cozier with these delicious comfort foods. Whether you’re craving something savory like sinigang or something sweet like champorado, there’s a Filipino dish that’s perfect for you. So the next time the rain starts to pour, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to some hearty Filipino comfort food. Your taste buds—and your soul—will thank you.
