25+ Must-Try New Year’s Filipino Dinner Recipes for Your New Year’s Feast

As the New Year approaches, it’s the perfect time to celebrate with family and friends over a delicious dinner that embodies the spirit of hope, joy, and togetherness.

In Filipino culture, food plays a vital role in welcoming the new year, with dishes often symbolizing prosperity, good luck, and long life.

From savory main courses to colorful sides and delightful desserts, the variety of flavors in Filipino cuisine is sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories.

This collection of over 25 New Year’s Filipino dinner recipes is designed to help you craft a festive menu that showcases the richness of our culinary heritage.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, these recipes range from traditional favorites like Lechon Kawali and Kare-Kare to modern twists on beloved classics.

Each dish is carefully chosen to reflect the warmth and generosity of Filipino hospitality, ensuring that your New Year’s celebration is not only delicious but also meaningful.

25+ Must-Try New Year’s Filipino Dinner Recipes for Your New Year’s Feast

As you prepare to ring in the New Year, remember that the food you serve is more than just sustenance; it’s an expression of love, culture, and tradition.

The 25+ Filipino dinner recipes shared in this article are designed to inspire you to create a memorable feast that your family and friends will cherish. Each dish tells a story, evoking fond memories of past celebrations and hopes for the future.

This New Year, let your dinner table be a reflection of your culinary creativity and a space where laughter and joy abound.

May the flavors of these recipes fill your home with warmth and happiness as you welcome the new beginnings that lie ahead. Cheers to a prosperous and delicious year!

Kare-Kare (Oxtail Peanut Stew)

Kare-Kare is a beloved Filipino dish renowned for its rich, savory flavor and creamy peanut sauce. Traditionally made with oxtail, this stew is complemented by vegetables such as eggplant, string beans, and banana hearts, making it a nutritious and hearty meal. Served with a side of shrimp paste (bagoong), Kare-Kare is a festive dish that brings family and friends together, making it a perfect addition to your New Year’s dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs oxtail, cut into pieces
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup ground peanuts (optional)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fish sauce (patis)
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 eggplant, sliced
• 1 bunch of string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 banana heart, sliced (optional)
• 6 cups water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Shrimp paste (bagoong) for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the oxtail to the pot and brown on all sides. Pour in the fish sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Add water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the oxtail is tender.
4. Once the meat is tender, remove it from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth and return it to the pot.
5. Stir in the peanut butter and ground peanuts (if using) into the broth, mixing well until smooth. Adjust the thickness to your preference by adding more broth or water.
6. Add the oxtail back into the pot and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Then, add the eggplant, string beans, and banana heart. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, paired with shrimp paste.

Kare-Kare is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt tradition that embodies the spirit of togetherness during special occasions like New Year’s Eve. The vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a standout dish that will impress your guests and family alike. Enjoying this delicious stew while sharing stories and laughter is sure to create lasting memories as you welcome the new year.

Lechon Kawali (Crispy Fried Pork Belly)

Lechon Kawali is a popular Filipino dish known for its crispy skin and tender meat, often served during festive occasions. This deep-fried pork belly is a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with a tangy dipping sauce. The crunchy texture combined with the rich flavors makes it a must-try for any New Year’s feast, allowing everyone to indulge in this delectable treat as they celebrate the start of another year.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork belly
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 head garlic, smashed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp peppercorns
• Salt to taste
• Water (enough to cover the pork)
• Vegetable oil for deep frying
• Dipping sauce: vinegar, soy sauce, and chopped chili (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the pork belly, onion, garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns, and salt. Add enough water to cover the pork. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, lower the heat and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the pork is tender. Allow it to cool in the broth.
3. Once cooled, remove the pork belly from the broth and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to help the skin dry out (this step is crucial for achieving crispiness).
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully add the pork belly and fry until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing into pieces.
6. Serve with a dipping sauce made of vinegar, soy sauce, and chopped chili.

Lechon Kawali is an irresistible addition to any New Year’s celebration, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The crispy skin and succulent meat create a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also adds a festive touch to your dinner spread. As you gather around the table, sharing this dish with loved ones will surely amplify the joy and gratitude that the new year brings.

Pancit Malabon (Noodle Dish)

Pancit Malabon is a flavorful noodle dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. With its thick rice noodles, savory seafood toppings, and a mix of vegetables, it’s a colorful and festive dish that symbolizes long life and good fortune—making it a perfect choice for New Year’s celebrations. Each bite of Pancit Malabon is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a symbol of abundance and joy for the year ahead.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb thick rice noodles (bihon)
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb squid, cleaned and sliced
• 1/2 lb crab meat (or imitation crab)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chopped cabbage
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 1/4 cup fish sauce (patis)
• 1/2 cup shrimp broth (or water)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup annatto oil (for color)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions and boiled eggs for garnish
• Calamansi or lemon for serving

Instructions:

1. Soak the thick rice noodles in water for about 30 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat annatto oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and squid, cooking until they turn opaque. Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce, and shrimp broth, mixing well.
4. Add the chopped cabbage and carrots, cooking until just tender.
5. Toss in the soaked noodles and stir-fry everything together, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crab meat, chopped green onions, and sliced boiled eggs. Offer calamansi or lemon on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Pancit Malabon is more than just a delicious noodle dish; it embodies the spirit of celebration and hope that the New Year brings. Its vibrant colors and diverse flavors make it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table, inviting everyone to share in its goodness. Each serving represents the wish for prosperity and longevity in the coming year, making it an essential dish for your New Year’s feast. Enjoy it with family and friends as you raise your glasses to new beginnings!

Sinigang na Baboy (Pork Sinigang)

Sinigang na Baboy is a classic Filipino sour soup known for its tangy flavor and comforting warmth. This dish is typically made with pork, various vegetables, and a souring agent like tamarind, making it a refreshing and nutritious option for any festive gathering. The rich broth, combined with tender meat and vibrant vegetables, symbolizes warmth and unity, making it an ideal dish to welcome the New Year with loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork belly or pork ribs
• 10 cups water
• 1 medium onion, quartered
• 2-3 medium tomatoes, quartered
• 1 cup tamarind paste (or fresh tamarind, if available)
• 1 radish (labanos), sliced
• 2-3 long green peppers (siling haba)
• 1 bunch of water spinach (kangkong)
• 1 eggplant, sliced
• Fish sauce (patis) to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the pork and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the pork is tender.
2. Add the onions and tomatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
3. If using fresh tamarind, boil it in a separate pot with water, then mash and strain the juice into the soup. If using tamarind paste, dissolve it in a cup of warm water and add it to the pot.
4. Add the radish and green peppers, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Then, add the eggplant and water spinach, cooking until tender.
5. Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the sourness to your liking.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Sinigang na Baboy is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and joy to any New Year’s gathering. Its delightful combination of sour and savory flavors not only tantalizes the palate but also creates a sense of nostalgia for many Filipinos. Sharing a bowl of this comforting soup with family and friends embodies the essence of togetherness and love, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast. As you enjoy this dish, may the tanginess remind you of the excitement and possibilities that the New Year holds.

Chicken Adobo (Filipino Chicken Stew)

Chicken Adobo is one of the most iconic dishes in Filipino cuisine, celebrated for its savory, tangy flavors and aromatic ingredients. This stew, marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, is simple yet incredibly satisfying. Adobo is often considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines and is a staple for special occasions. This dish not only nourishes but also serves as a reminder of home and tradition, making it a perfect addition to your New Year’s dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken (preferably thighs and drumsticks)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup vinegar (preferably cane vinegar)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 cup water
• Salt to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and reserve the marinade.
3. Brown the chicken in the pot on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in the reserved marinade and add water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Uncover and let the sauce reduce to your desired thickness. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions, and enjoy with steamed rice.

Chicken Adobo is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it a beloved favorite among Filipinos and an inviting option for New Year’s celebrations. Sharing this dish with family and friends evokes a sense of nostalgia and tradition, reminding everyone of their roots and the bonds that tie them together. As you gather around the table, savor each bite and celebrate the blessings of the past year while looking forward to new adventures in the year ahead.

Biko (Sticky Rice Cake)

Biko is a traditional Filipino dessert made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar, resulting in a rich and sweet rice cake that is both comforting and delicious. Often served during celebrations, this sticky treat is a symbol of prosperity and abundance, making it an excellent addition to your New Year’s festivities. The delightful combination of flavors and textures in Biko is sure to please your guests and sweeten the start of the New Year.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup latik (coconut curds) for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight, then drain.
2. In a pot, combine the soaked rice and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the rice absorbs the water and becomes partially cooked (about 10-15 minutes).
3. In a separate saucepan, mix the coconut milk, brown sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Combine the cooked rice with the coconut milk mixture in a large pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook on low heat, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and becomes sticky (about 30-40 minutes).
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with latik if desired.
7. Allow it to cool before slicing into squares.

Biko is a delightful dessert that brings sweetness and joy to your New Year’s celebration. Its sticky texture and rich coconut flavor create a comforting finish to any meal, symbolizing hope for a bountiful year ahead. Sharing this treat with family and friends as you welcome the New Year fosters a sense of togetherness and gratitude. As you indulge in this delicious rice cake, may it serve as a reminder of the sweetness of life and the cherished moments yet to come.

Lechon Kawali (Crispy Pork Belly)

Lechon Kawali is a beloved Filipino dish known for its crispy, golden skin and tender, flavorful meat. This deep-fried pork belly is often served with a rich dipping sauce, typically a vinegar-based sauce or liver sauce. The contrasting textures of the crunchy skin and juicy meat make it a favorite for special occasions, including New Year’s festivities. Sharing this dish symbolizes abundance and happiness, making it a wonderful way to kick off the new year.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork belly
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon peppercorns
• 3-4 bay leaves
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the pork belly, water, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 40-50 minutes until the pork is tender.
2. Remove the pork belly from the pot and let it cool. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Once cool, refrigerate the pork belly for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to help dry out the skin.
4. In a deep pan or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the pork belly in batches, frying until the skin is crispy and golden brown (about 10-15 minutes).
5. Remove the pork from the oil and drain on paper towels. Slice into pieces and serve with a dipping sauce.

Lechon Kawali is a festive dish that brings a satisfying crunch and savory flavor to your New Year’s dinner. Its crispy exterior and succulent interior make it a show-stopping centerpiece that is sure to delight your guests. This dish embodies the essence of celebration and abundance, making it a fitting way to ring in the new year. As you share this indulgent treat with family and friends, may it symbolize the richness of the experiences and memories you will create together in the year ahead.

Pancit Malabon (Malabon Noodles)

Pancit Malabon is a hearty noodle dish that is a staple at Filipino celebrations, particularly during New Year’s. Originating from the city of Malabon, this dish features thick rice noodles tossed with a rich seafood sauce, topped with an array of toppings like shrimp, squid, and hard-boiled eggs. The vibrant colors and flavors of Pancit Malabon not only make it visually appealing but also symbolize long life and prosperity, making it a fitting addition to your New Year’s feast.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb thick rice noodles (bihon or pancit malabon noodles)
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
• 1 cup cabbage, chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 onion, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup seafood stock or water
• 1/4 cup fish sauce (patis)
• 1/4 cup shrimp paste (bagoong)
• 2-3 hard-boiled eggs, sliced for garnish
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped for garnish
• Calamansi or lemon for serving

Instructions:

1. Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 30 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and squid to the pan, cooking until they are just done. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the seafood stock and fish sauce. Stir in the shrimp paste and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the soaked noodles, tossing to combine with the sauce. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are heated through and have absorbed the flavors.
6. Fold in the cabbage and carrots, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
7. Serve hot, garnished with hard-boiled eggs and chopped green onions. Offer calamansi or lemon on the side for an extra zesty flavor.

Pancit Malabon is a deliciously festive dish that brings both flavor and tradition to your New Year’s celebration. Its colorful presentation and rich taste make it a perfect dish for sharing with family and friends. As you gather around the table, enjoying the long strands of noodles that symbolize longevity, may you reflect on the blessings of the past year and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead in the new year. Sharing this dish is a wonderful way to express wishes for prosperity and happiness for everyone at the table.

Kare-Kare (Oxtail Stew in Peanut Sauce)

Kare-Kare is a traditional Filipino oxtail stew that is rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful. This dish features a savory peanut sauce made from ground peanuts or peanut butter, thickened with rice flour, and is often served with a variety of vegetables and a side of shrimp paste. Kare-Kare is a dish often prepared for special occasions, making it an ideal choice for your New Year’s dinner. Its unique flavor profile and hearty nature symbolize prosperity and joy, perfect for celebrating new beginnings.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs oxtail, cut into pieces
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup ground peanuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup rice flour, dissolved in water
• 6 cups water
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 eggplants, sliced
• 1 bunch of banana heart (puso ng saging), sliced
• 1 cup string beans (sitaw), cut into 2-inch lengths
• 1/4 cup bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) for serving
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the oxtail, water, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the meat is tender (about 2-3 hours). Skim off any scum that rises to the surface.
2. Once the oxtail is tender, remove it from the pot and strain the broth. Set the broth aside and return the oxtail to the pot.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter and ground peanuts with a few cups of the reserved broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pot with the oxtail.
4. Stir in the dissolved rice flour to thicken the sauce. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed.
5. Add the eggplant, banana heart, and string beans. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with bagoong on the side.

Kare-Kare is a sumptuous dish that embodies Filipino culinary tradition and is perfect for sharing during New Year’s festivities. The combination of tender oxtail and the rich, nutty peanut sauce makes this stew a crowd-pleaser. As you savor each bite, may it remind you of the richness of life and the bonds of family and friendship that grow stronger with each passing year. Sharing this hearty dish around the table is not just about enjoying good food; it’s about celebrating life, love, and the new beginnings that the New Year brings.

Sinigang na Baboy (Pork Sinigang)

Sinigang na Baboy is a quintessential Filipino sour soup, beloved for its refreshing and tangy flavors. The soup is typically made with pork, a variety of vegetables, and a souring agent, often tamarind, which gives it its signature taste. This dish is perfect for sharing during family gatherings, especially during the New Year, as it symbolizes warmth and togetherness. The balance of savory and sour notes in Sinigang makes it a comforting choice that can help clear the palate after rich holiday meals.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork belly or pork ribs
• 8 cups water
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2-3 tomatoes, quartered
• 1 radish (labanos), sliced
• 1 cup eggplant, sliced
• 1 cup long green beans (sitaw), cut into 2-inch lengths
• 2-3 cups water spinach (kangkong) or other leafy greens
• 1-2 green chili peppers (siling pangsigang)
• 1/2 cup tamarind paste or 1 pack of sinigang mix
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the pork and water. Bring to a boil, skimming off any scum that rises to the surface. Add the onions and tomatoes, then lower the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour until the pork is tender.
2. Add the radish and cook for another 5 minutes. Then add the eggplant and green beans, simmering until they are tender.
3. Stir in the tamarind paste or sinigang mix, adjusting to your desired level of sourness. Add the green chili peppers for a hint of spice.
4. Finally, add the water spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Sinigang na Baboy is a dish that encapsulates the essence of Filipino comfort food, making it an ideal addition to your New Year’s feast. The harmonious blend of flavors—from the savory pork to the tangy broth—creates a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also warms the heart. As you gather with loved ones to enjoy this delightful soup, it serves as a reminder of the importance of family and friendship, especially as you enter a new year filled with hopes and aspirations. Sharing a bowl of Sinigang is a wonderful way to connect with those you cherish, fostering good health and happiness for the coming year.

Pinoy Beef Stew (Beef Mechado)

Beef Mechado is a classic Filipino stew known for its rich and savory flavors, often featuring tender beef braised in a tomato-based sauce with a hint of soy sauce and a medley of vegetables. This hearty dish is often served on special occasions, making it a fitting choice for New Year’s dinner. The use of marbled beef ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the combination of spices adds depth to the sauce. It represents family gatherings and the warmth of home cooking, perfect for ushering in a new year with loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2-3 cups beef broth or water
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 potato, cubed
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the beef chunks to the pot, browning them on all sides.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, cooking until they soften. Add the tomato sauce and soy sauce, mixing well.
4. Pour in the beef broth or water, and add the bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer. Cover and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
5. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking until they are tender. Stir in the green bell pepper and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Beef Mechado is a delightful dish that brings a touch of home to your New Year’s dinner table. Its rich, flavorful sauce and tender beef make it a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. This dish not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart, symbolizing the importance of family bonds and shared experiences. As you savor each bite, may it remind you of the love and togetherness that make the new year special. Sharing a plate of Beef Mechado with family and friends is a celebration of life’s simple pleasures and the cherished memories you will create in the year ahead.

Adobo sa Mangga (Chicken Adobo with Green Mango)

Adobo is often regarded as the national dish of the Philippines, and this version—Adobo sa Mangga—adds a delightful twist by incorporating green mangoes. The savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors of the chicken adobo pair beautifully with the tartness of the green mango, creating a unique dish that is both refreshing and comforting. This recipe represents abundance and resilience, making it an excellent choice for a New Year’s gathering as you reflect on the past and look forward to new opportunities.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon peppercorns
• 1-2 green mangoes, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 1 tablespoon oil for sautéing
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, onion, bay leaves, and peppercorns for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and brown the chicken pieces on all sides.
3. Pour in the reserved marinade and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is tender.
4. If using, add sugar to balance the flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir in the sliced green mangoes just before serving, allowing them to soften slightly in the sauce.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Adobo sa Mangga is a delicious and innovative take on the traditional adobo, offering a fresh twist that highlights the unique flavors of Filipino cuisine. The combination of savory chicken and tart green mango makes this dish a standout at any New Year’s celebration. As you enjoy this meal with family and friends, may it signify not just the richness of your culinary heritage but also the richness of the relationships you cultivate in the year to come. Sharing this dish is a way to honor tradition while embracing new flavors, and it serves as a reminder to welcome the new year with an open heart and mind.

Lechon Kawali (Crispy Pork Belly)

Lechon Kawali is a favorite Filipino dish known for its crispy skin and tender meat. This deep-fried pork belly is often served with a side of liver sauce or vinegar dipping sauce, making it a delectable addition to any festive occasion. The dish represents prosperity and indulgence, making it an ideal centerpiece for your New Year’s feast. The crunchy texture paired with the rich flavors creates a satisfying experience that is sure to please family and friends as you welcome the new year together.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork belly
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 head garlic, crushed
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon peppercorns
• Salt, to taste
• Water, enough to cover the pork
• Oil, for deep frying

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the pork belly, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt. Add enough water to cover the pork.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the pork is tender.
3. Remove the pork from the pot and let it cool. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
4. Once cooled, refrigerate the pork for a few hours or overnight to help achieve crispiness.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork belly, frying until the skin is golden brown and crispy (about 10-15 minutes).
6. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with liver sauce or vinegar dipping sauce.

Lechon Kawali is a festive dish that brings joy and celebration to the dining table. Its crunchy texture and savory flavor are hard to resist, making it a popular choice during special occasions. As you serve this dish during your New Year’s celebration, it not only delights the palate but also embodies the spirit of abundance and festivity. Gathering around a plate of Lechon Kawali encourages laughter, conversation, and shared memories, reinforcing the bonds of family and friendship as you embark on a new year filled with hope and promise.

Kare-Kare (Oxtail Peanut Stew)

Kare-Kare is a beloved Filipino stew known for its rich, creamy peanut sauce and tender oxtail. Traditionally served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), this dish is a celebration of flavors and textures. It often features a mix of vegetables like eggplant, banana heart, and green beans, creating a colorful and nutritious meal. Serving Kare-Kare during New Year symbolizes abundance and togetherness, making it a cherished dish that brings family and friends closer as they gather around the table.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs oxtail, cut into pieces
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 eggplants, sliced
• 1 cup banana heart (puso ng saging), sliced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 2-inch lengths
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup fish sauce (patis)
• 1 tablespoon annatto seeds (for color)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the oxtail, onion, garlic, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 2-3 hours until the oxtail is tender.
2. In a separate pan, soak the annatto seeds in a small amount of hot water to extract the color. Strain and set aside.
3. Once the oxtail is tender, remove it from the pot and set aside. Add the peanut butter and the annatto water to the broth, stirring until well combined.
4. Return the oxtail to the pot and add the eggplant, banana heart, and green beans. Simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot with steamed rice and a side of bagoong.

Kare-Kare is not just a dish; it is a culinary tradition that evokes nostalgia and familial love. As you enjoy the rich flavors of this hearty stew during your New Year’s celebration, it serves as a reminder of the importance of family, community, and the bonds that unite us. The combination of savory, nutty flavors and tender meat makes this dish an unforgettable experience for everyone at the table. Sharing Kare-Kare signifies togetherness and the joy of welcoming a new year filled with love, happiness, and prosperity.

Pancit Canton (Stir-Fried Noodles)

Pancit Canton is a popular Filipino noodle dish that symbolizes long life and good fortune, making it a must-have during New Year’s celebrations. This stir-fried noodle dish is typically made with a mix of vegetables, meat (like chicken, shrimp, or pork), and savory seasonings, creating a colorful and flavorful meal. Pancit Canton not only pleases the palate but also serves as a visual feast, representing the abundance of blessings and prosperity in the coming year.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Pancit Canton noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2-3 green onions, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pancit Canton noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add the carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage, stir-frying for about 3-5 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Add the cooked chicken and shrimp, cooking until the shrimp is pink and opaque.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing well. Add the cooked noodles, tossing to combine and heat through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Pancit Canton is a delightful dish that not only brings flavor and excitement to your New Year’s table but also carries deep cultural significance. The long noodles symbolize longevity, and serving this dish during the celebration is believed to invite good fortune for the year ahead. As family and friends gather to enjoy Pancit Canton, it fosters a spirit of unity and gratitude for the past year while looking forward to the possibilities that lie ahead. This vibrant dish is a delicious reminder to cherish every moment and embrace the new year with open arms and hopeful hearts.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!