Exploring the Roots of “Bahay Kubo” Ingredients
“Bahay Kubo” is a beloved Filipino folk song that showcases various vegetables commonly found in Filipino backyards, markets, and grocery stores. Surprisingly, none of the 18 crops mentioned in the song are native to the Philippines. Let’s delve into the origins of these plants:
Bean Trio Origins
- Sitaw: Central and South America
- Bataw: Sub-Saharan Africa and India
- Patani: Meso- and South America
Despite the Philippines being one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, many native and endemic species are underutilized due to factors like habitat loss and lack of awareness.
Celebrating Filipino Food Month with “Pamana” Buffet
Belmont Hotel Manila and Lokalpedia joined hands to celebrate Filipino Food Month by highlighting overlooked local ingredients through the “Pamana” weekend dinner buffet.
Lokalpedia: A Treasure Trove of Filipino Heritage Ingredients
Lokalpedia, founded by John Sherwin Felix, is an online archive showcasing native, endemic, and heirloom ingredients. Felix’s passion project aims to raise awareness about the rich food culture of the Philippines.
The “Pamana” Collaboration
For “Pamana,” Felix collaborated with Belmont Hotel Manila’s Executive Chef Andrew Ko to create a buffet menu featuring traditional Filipino dishes infused with indigenous ingredients.
Culinary Highlights
- Kansi: Western Visayas sour soup with Batwan
- Ensaladang Himbabao sa Sinamak: Featuring the indigenous vegetable Himbabao
- Kinilaw na Tuna with Gamet, Langkawas, and Sampaguita
- Bringhe with Etag
- Balbacua: Filipino beef stew
- Pansit Buko: Coconut strips instead of noodles
- Asin Tibuok Ice Cream
- Cacao Tart
The “Pamana” buffet offers a delightful culinary experience coupled with an actual display of the ingredients, allowing guests to immerse themselves in this unique collaboration.
Experience the “Pamana” buffet on Fridays and Saturdays throughout April and May.
