#ensaladang pako

[beingjellybeans]

Classic Takes and Fresh Twists on Filipino Delights at Manam Comfort Filipino, Uptown Mall

Filipino cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, melding indigenous ingredients, influences from Chinese, Spanish, and American cultures, resulting in a unique gastronomic adventure. When it comes to embracing the heart and soul of traditional Filipino dishes while adding modern innovation, Manam Comfort Filipino, a gem within The Moment Group of Restaurants, stands out. A Feast for the…

[theidealistdilettante]

One-day Adventure sa Baler.

Noong huling linggo pa lang ng December ay nag-aya na kung pwede ba ako mag-Baler sa unang linggo ng taon sila Mayi at Niel (high school friends) habang pauwi galing sa Kape Amihan kasama si Pat. Marami naman akong pang-offset kaya pumayag ako, g lang. Kaya Wednesday night, nagpaalam na ako sa boss ko na may personal na lakad ako kinabukasan kaya magpapaalam na umabsent since biglaan ang paalam (meron kasi kaming rules na 3 days before mag-offset ang dapat na paalam) – pumayag naman siya at kung meron pa daw akong pang-offset ay gamitin para sulit.

Ang usapan ay aalis sa Muñoz ng alas dyis nga umaga, at sa tingin ko natuloy naman. Unang sinundo ni Kyle si Mayi, sunod si Niel at saka ako nahuli, sa kadahilanang ako’y nasa banyo pa lang nung mga oras na iyon. Nang masundo na ako’y dumiretso na kami sa bahay nila NL since ‘yung Fortuner niya ang gagamitin at siya rin ang naka-talagang driver (despite the fact na kakatapos lang ng night shift work niya noong alas nueve ng umaga). Huli naming dinaanan si Pat sa may Encarnacion sa San Jose City, at saka kami ay tumungo na sa Baler. 

Unang beses kong makakapunta sa Baler, at bilang isang taong pinapahalagahan ang mga kaibigan, natutuwa ang puso kong ang una kong mga kasama ay mga high school friends ko. Ni hindi kami makatulog dahil sa dami ng mga pinag-uusapan. Maski si Mayi na uminom ng antihistamine na medyo inaantok ay hirap makakuha ng tulog dahil sa kadaldalan namin. Random topics, random chika. Mga kabastusan, kabulastugan. Hahaha. Ito yung mga kasamang hindi mo kailangan ng alak para maging totoo. 

Mag-aala-una na ng hapon ng makarating kami sa Aliya Surf Camp Beach Resort, pero dun lang kami nag-park sa tabi. Bilang ika-apat na araw na ng Enero at karamihan sa mga turista ay bumalik na ng siyudad o kung saan man ang kanilang mga pinanggalingan, halos solo namin ang lugar. Sakto, kakaunti ang tao, mas damang dama ang yapos ng hangin ng Baler. Makulimlim ang panahon at medyo malamig.

Sa Yellowfin Bar & Grill kami kumain, ilang minutong lakad mula sa parking space namin. Napakaraming kainan na mas masusubukan sana kung mas matagal pa kami doon. Kanya-kanyang kuha ng litrato at videos pang-post sa social media ang bawat isa sa amin. Ako nama’y main goal ang pagkuha ng mga litratong pwedeng maitago at mai-share dito sa blog ko, para masimulan na ulit magsulat. Umorder kami ng 2 inihaw na pusit, 2 inihaw na liempo, 1 plato ng lumpiang shanghai na may masarap na sauce, at tig-1 order ng ensaladang talong at pako. Si Kyle at Pat ay nag-share sa isang order ng pares, na para sa akin ay normal lang ang lasa ng ipatikim nila ito. Nag-iiba talaga ang lasa ng kahit na anong ordinaryong pagkain depende kung nasaan ka at kung sino ang kasama mo. Pero sa totoo lang, masarap talaga ‘yung mga inorder namin at sa tingin ko’y worth it for the price. 

Pagkatapos mamahinga ay naglakad-lakad kami sa tabing dagat para magpababa ng pagkain at saka parang mga batang nagluglog ng paa sa may dalampasigan. Malakas ang mga hampas ng alon, pero hindi gaano kataas at consistent para sa surfing. Gusto sana namin subukan, at ready din naman kaming mabasa, pero medyo nag-alangan dahil nakakatakot ang mga maliliit pero parang nangangain na mga alon. Kaya naging kontento na lang kami sa pagbabad ng paa (maliban yata kay Pat na gustong-gusto talagang lumangoy. Hahaha!). Talagang wala ng halos tao nang mga panahong ‘yon kaya talagang ramdam na ramdam mo ang kapayapaan ng Baler. Sabi nga ni NL, kung ikukumpara sa La Union ay mas gusto n’ya ang ganito katahimik. Siguro’y may mga araw na pipiliin ko rin ang tahimik na bersyon ng Baler, pero minsan ay hahanap-hanapin pa rin ang makulay, magulo, maingay, at medyo wild na mga gabi ng Elyu. BIlang isang ambivert, kaya ko naman ang balanse ng dalawa. Nakakatuwa din pala dito si Kyle kasi para siyang tito na kuha ng kuha ng pictures namin. 

Pagsapit ng alas-tres ng hapon ay napag-isipan na naming mag-kape sa isang cafe na malapit. Napili namin ang Gayuma Cafe. Maganda ang ambiance nito kasi parang outdoor tropical shack na rustic ang theme. Meron pang second floor na pwedeng umupo (at in our case, humiga) sa sahig dahil no shoes allowed. Masarap din ang simoy ng hangin sa taas kaya naman talagang nakatulog si NL na aming driver kahit idlip lang. Samantalang kami ni Pat ay naglaro naman ng chess. Hahahaha. Hindi ako magaling sa laro na ito pero proud ako na na-4 moves ko si Pat, well di rin naman sya magaling sa laro kaya quits lang. Hahahaha. Sa pangalawang round ay hindi na ako masyado nag-isip at tinulungan na rin siya ni Kyle kaya natalo na ako. Iba-iba ang inorder namin: si Mayi ay isang hot na peanut butter latter (kabaligtaran ng sa akin na iced) at isang pancake na may nutella at saging (pareho ni Nes Linn); si Kyle ay isang iced americano (na medyo maasim for my preference); si Niel ay isang iced nutella mocha yata saka isang pancake na may nutella lang pero walang saging; si NL ay yung pancake kaparehas ng kay Mayi at isang iced latte (na dinagdagan niya ng sugar after ilang sips); at finally si Pat na isang mango shake. Sa tingin ko’y may kamahalan ang presyo pero since tourist spot naman ang Baler at mostly ang binayaran naman ay ang ambiance at ang mga empleyado na nag serbisyo ay pwede na rin. Kwentuhan ng kung ano-ano hanggang sa pumatak ang alas-kwatro imedya at nagdesisyon kaming muling maglakad sa baywalk pabalik sa parking area. Kaunting pictures, kaunting videos here and there until makabalik na kami sa sasakyan. Mukhang di talaga na-satisfy si Pat dahil gusto pa rin niya maligo sa dagat. Hahaha. Sa susunod siguro, Pat.

Pauwi na kami at hindi nakikisama ang pantog ko. Saglit na drive lang naman ito at mukhang di na ulit sanay mag-biyahe ng matagal kaya pagdating namin sa Maria Aurora malapit sa Alfonso Lista, Nueva Vizcaya ay umihi muna kami sa isang stop over. Di pa rin talaga tumahimik ang byahe dahil bukod sa kailangan hindi makaramdam ng antok si NL ay sobra rin ang kadaldalan ni Pat. Buong biyahe niya akong finast-talk ng kung sino-sinong lalaki. Sobrang random, mula sa mga sikat na artista, hanggang sa musicians, hanggang sa mga kakilala namin. Haha. 

Pagkarating ng San Jose City, nagdinner kami sa isang kainan na bago malapit sa Infinitea: ang Hongdae Chicken. Pinagmamalaki kasi ni Kyle, kaya sinubukan namin ang karamihan sa kanilang mga sauces. Paborito ko yung lemon pepper (pareho kami ni NL) pero sabi nila Mayi, Niel at Pat ay overwhelming daw yung lasa ng lemon. Actually, lahat naman ng sauces nila overwhelming kasi naparami yata masyado or baka dahil mas ma-appreciate mo lang siya kapag isinama sa rice. Hindi na kasi kami umorder ng rice bilang medyo busog pa kami. At nagbabawas ng calories yung 2 naming kasama. Hahahaha. Before dumating yung order ay rumesponde nanaman ako sa pantog kong ‘di marunong makisama. Kasama si Pat ay nagpunta kami sa pinakamalapit na CR which is sa McDo crossing pa. Malayo-layong lakaran pero okay lang at nakapag-usap kami ng kaunti. Pagbalik ay saktong dumating na ang orders namin.

Pagkatapos manginain ay dumiretso na kami sa pag-uwi dahil may shift pa si NL at 12 midnight. Kagaya ng pagsundo ay unang naihatid si Pat sa Encarnacion, saka kami tumuloy sa bahay nila NL para kuhanin ang kotse ni Kyle. Saka biglang may chika pa ngang biglaan (haha). Inihatid si Niel sa Maligaya, sunod ako, at huli si Mayi. Siguro mga mag-alas dyis na rin bago makauwi ang lahat.

Pag-uwi ko’y nag-uumapaw ang tuwa sa puso ko. Mukhang nagkaroon nanaman tayo ng panibagong rason para ituloy lang na mabuhay sa araw-araw kahit pagod na pagod na at madalas ay nawawala na sa sarili. Salamat sa limang kaibigan na unang nagpakilala sa akin sa Baler. 

Sa taon na ‘to, hinaut ko’y mas marami pang mga biglaang biyahe ang mangyari, dahil may kung anong mahika sa mga biglaang biyahe. Sabi nga nila – mas madaling walang sinusunod na itinerary, walang expectations, mas nakikilala ang lugar na napupuntahan at ang mga kasamahan, at mas maraming nadidiskubre sa mismong sarili. 

Unang beses ko sa Baler, at hindi man sumapat ang isang araw para makilala ka ng buo, puno pa rin ng pasasalamat ang puso ko sa muling pagpapakilala sa akin ng ilang parte ng aking sarili na akala ko’y limot ko na, pero naitago lang pala. 

[veganpinay]

Pako salad, also known as ensaladang pako, which is among our most loved salads is usually prepared using fresh tomatoes and onions that add flavor to the vegetable fern's distinct taste.

[filipinofoodart]

Ensaladang itlog na maalat can be as simple as itlog na maalat or salted egg mixed with sliced tomatoes. Throw in any number of ingredients to add dimension to this simple yet satisfying salad. Some add pako or vegetable fern, in the Visayas and Mindanao lato or seaweed are tossed in while enjoying sinugbang isda or inihaw na isda. Others add olive oil, capers… the list goes on! Earliest recordings of salted eggs are in ancient Chinese texts dating back to the 6th century! How do you like your ensaladang itlog na maalat? Artprint: https://society6.com/product/itlog-maalat-or-salted-egg-salad-with-baybayin-filipino-food-art_mini-art-print

[mahalkitajohnnysuh]

JN (Part IV)

We’re back with yet another installment of this series, and I believe it will be the last one for our One and Only. 

To unofficially wrap this up, here’s a GIF of him looking all cute and cuddly in this cozy hoodie! Yes, I’m a sucker for alliterations. 

Mahal ko kayong lahat! :) 

–––

Summary: As always, that GIF is a clue! Read on more random scenarios based on the prompt list of @neoculturedrabbles​, and please take note that these were written with the tensest timeline in mind still. I’m going to call the pre-Johnny and Essie as a couple timeline as that from now. 

POV: 2nd for the first, 3rd for the second. 

Word count: 1,700+ words

Warning: Italics are for foreign terms this time. 

–––

Prompt #3: “Is that my hoodie?”

Living with Johnny and Mark means you get to swipe items from each other. If not that, either one of you uses the item of the other.

For example, every time you bring out your sandalwood soap, Johnny and Mark use it. You noticed that it was used when there were remaining bubbles on the soap when it was your turn to take a bath. You wrinkled your nose in annoyance, remembering that Johnny criticized your soap preference.

“Baby, this smells like a man’s soap. Unless you like that, of course,” he told you one time you stepped out of the shower after using a newly-opened bar of sandalwood soap.

“The hell you care, dude. I’ve become used to it, and it helps with my skin conditions,” you grumbled in response before storming back to your room.

To get back for his bashing and using your soap with no permission, you decided to get one of his million hoodies inside his closet. You were lucky that he didn’t lock his room at all – it was easy to get one of them whenever he was out. Mark was abroad again, and that means you have the apartment all to yourself lately.

You got a light brown hoodie from his closet, which was one of your favorites on him. You tried it on, and you wiggled in delight at how soft and comfortable it was. “This is mine for now, Johnny Suh,” you whispered to no one in particular before leaving his room.

\\\

When he arrived at home late that night, you were lounging in your room in his hoodie and your jogging pants. You were working on your novel again, writing about the back story on one of your characters. As you typed furiously in front of your laptop while listening to a curated playlist to get into the mood, you didn’t notice him enter your room.

As you were about to finish writing one sentence, you heard someone clear their throat. You looked up and saw the towering form of your housemate, who raised his eyebrow at you.

“Hey,” you greeted briefly before going back to your manuscript.

“Hey yourself,” you heard him through your headphones, “and is that my hoodie?”

You didn’t respond, intent on finishing the sentence you were working on.

“Is that my hoodie you’re wearing?” He asked again, his voice louder (and a bit annoyed) this time.

You took off your headphones and looked at up him again with a smile on your face. “Yeah, it is. It’s mine now,” you said confidently, flashing him your pearly whites.

“Hey, is this your payback for using your soap? Come on! I like that hoodie!” He whined, now sitting beside you and tugging the sleeve of the hoodie you were wearing.

“You have a lot of hoodies, Youngho. You bought what, like 4 or 5 of them in one go? It wouldn’t hurt for you to let go of one,” you muttered, prying his fingers off your arm.

“But that’s one of my favorites! It’s part of my Top 5!”

“Nope, it’s mine now.”

“Essieeeeee!” Johnny tackled you on the bed, and you thwacked him on the head. “Duuuude!” You grumbled, sitting up to put away your laptop on your vanity. “Don’t do that when my laptop is here.”

“And you’re more concerned about your laptop than me?” He fake-sobbed first before tackling you again back to the bed.

What ensued was a hilarious (and a bit awkward) bed wrestling fight – you two were a tangle of limbs on your messy bed.

“Ow!” He cried when he got poked by your plastic hand bookmark that has now escaped the book you were hiding under your bed. “Serves you right for messing with me!” You stuck your tongue out and pushed him off you.

He didn’t let you do that easily – he pinned both your arms and was now on top of you.

“Give back my jacket please, baby,” he purred, giving you his best aegyo even if his face was as flushed as a tomato.

“No, it’s mine. For now, that is. Can’t I borrow it for a week?”

Johnny let go of his hold on you and laid beside you on the bed. “Fine, just for a week. After that, it goes back into my closet.”

“Then I’ll pilfer another one next time,” you snickered, which earned you a pinch on your sides. You glared at him, which he ignored as he continued to pinch you more.

“No, I get to choose which one you’ll get next time,” he said, now tilting his body to face you. “There’s nothing wrong with you wearing my stuff, but you’ve got to ask permission first, okay?”

“But you didn’t ask for my permission when you used my soap!” It was your turn to whine, and he just laughed at your statement.

“Essie, it’s just soap. And I bet you have a truckload of that since you always ask your sister to get you that every time she goes to the States. So please, don’t mind us when you use your soap.”

His words took a moment for you to absorb. “Mark uses it too?!” You were close to hysterics already, making the tall guy laugh harder. “Yeah. As you said, it smells good, and it helps with skin conditions.”

You looked at him for a hot minute and focused your attention on his neck. “I doubt it’s helping you,” you said, pointing at the red mark on his neck. “Your insect bite is still there.”

“Heeeeey!” He swatted your finger away from his neck and held it. “That doesn’t count. But maybe if I use it more…”

“Fine. Let’s call it quits. You can use my soap, and I get to keep this hoodie.”

“No way, Jose! It’s still mine. You can use it for a week, that’s it.”

“But Johnnyyyyy!”

\\\

Prompt #9: “What are you doing?”

“…nothing.”

When Essie and Johnny weren’t still roommates, he often texted her or left her a voicemail to hang out with him.

“What are you doing?” Ninety-nine percent of the time, this was the first message that Essie would always playback.

“…nothing,” was her usual reply. Later on, he would text her about some activities he wanted to do with her. There were some that she agreed to, and there were some that she declined out of tiredness or she wasn’t up for it.

Since Johnny vlogged during his free time, he would always tag along with Essie and Kibum in his adventures. They did challenges together, and the three became known as the Le Fabuleux Escouade, thanks to Kibum and Essie’s French vocabulary and the netizens agreeing that it was a nice nickname for the trio.

There was a time that the two had their usual exchange that ended up with them having a mukbang at his apartment. Kibum was out of the country, so it was just the two best friends who filmed while eating Essie’s favorite Filipino dishes – Bicol Express, afritadang manok, ensaladang pako, palabok, and pichi-pichi. There was a newly-opened Filipino restaurant downtown and the girl was too eager to order almost everything from the menu.

“Since I asked you guys on my social media what you would like to know about me and Essie, we’re going to read some of them right now as we eat all this glorious food,” Johnny said to the camera, pointing at the pichi-pichi and palabok near him. Essie gave a small wave and pointed to the Bicol Express and afritadang manok beside her.

As Johnny scrolled through his phone for the questions he received, the girl started eating. She put some rice on her plate first before getting a portion of the Bicol Express. “I’m so hungry right now, guys,” Essie whispered loudly enough to be considered ASMR.

When he looked at her, his eyes widened. “Hey, don’t start without me! Wait!” He was quick to whip out his plate and put some rice and Bicol Express on it as well.

They ate a bit before Johnny went back to his phone to answer questions. He almost choked when he read the most asked question.

“Are you and Essie dating?” He read aloud before showing off the proof that almost everyone wanted to know the real deal between him and his best friend.

The girl looked at him incredulously before staring into the camera with the same expression. “Seriously, guys?” She asked before eating a spoonful of rice and meat.

“Well, Essie and I are best friends. I mean, I have a lot of people I consider that, and she’s one of them. We have been friends for over a year now,” he looked at her briefly before turning his attention back to the camera, “and I’m glad that we still are. What can you say, baby?”

She slapped his shoulder playfully before sharing her answer. “That’s true. He’s one of my best friends as well. Even if our friendship isn’t as long as my other besties, I still feel that we are. Sometimes, it isn’t about the labels that define things. It just happens, you know?”

The two gave each other a high-five before they went into their friendship clap.

“We’re just best friends, guys!” Johnny started, wrapping an arm around her shoulder. “But who knows?” He glanced at her, hoping that his look of longing wasn’t that visible on camera.

To be honest, he was starting to fall for her. The more time that he spent with her, the more he wanted to be with her. He tried not hanging out with her for a week, and he felt empty. It wasn’t the same anymore.

“Hey!” Essie shouted, pushing him away from her. “Don’t lead them on like that!” If Johnny was paying close attention to what her words meant, then he would’ve realized that her statement reflected what she was feeling and not the viewers.

Essie shared the same feelings too, and their life would be even more complicated if they do get together.

Who would like their relationship to be projected onto screens, right? Not Essie, but she’s not sure if Johnny feels the same.

–––

FIN

P.S. All those Filipino dishes made me hungry! I hope you get to eat your favorites today!

[yoursecrettravelbuddy]

The Twin Lakes — San Pablo City, Laguna

Fresh mountain air and still lake water await! Resting between the dormant Mt. Makiling and Mt. Banahaw, you'd get a perfect, view of the sky and lushes greenery as you're set adrift on a bamboo raft. Lake Yambo and Lake Pandin are known to be the cleanest and most tourist-friendly.

How to get there:

* From Cubao or Pasay, ride a bus bound for Lucena. Ask the conductor first if you will be passing through San Pablo City - around 130 pesos

* Alight at the 7/11 near San Pablo Church; take a trike to the jump-off of Lake Pandin or Lake Yambo - 40 to 50 pesos

Rates:

* Small bamboo raft - 180 pesos

* Big bamboo raft with food (grilled tilapia, ginataang hipon, ensaladang pako, banana, and two cups of rice) - 1,000 pesos for 2 people; 1,200 pesos for 3 people. Add 20 pesos for grilled pork

* Wash-up - 20 pesos

* Overnight camping - about 100 pesos

[lakwatsabicol]

BICOLANDIA's FINEST BICOL EXPRESS

Here in our country, Philippines surely has a lot of remarkable tourist spot and destinations. Along with it are food delicacies that surely a lot of people will find interesting. We sure can travel around the world, but in our country; we have Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. However, we will focus only on the Bicol Region of Luzon.

“There’s just so much about the region to be discovered and showcased, and this is also an opportunity to work with local communities and create livelihoods,” Mr. Buenaflor says, a food enthusiast residing in Bicol. We have a coordinator who leads the tour and local chefs conducting food demonstrations. The cities are also tapped to assist in our market tours, and a hotelier in Sorsogon personally hosts the guests. It really is, in the truest sense, a community effort to showcase our region.” These food tour only covers three main cities in Bicol, specifically, Naga, Legaspi and Sorsogon.

Bicol boasts delectable local foods! This is what highlight one’s travel experience. In Bicol cuisine, you will notice how they frequently employ creamy coconut milk (one of their main crops) and red chili peppers. Some of their most popular meals are likely to have been tried and reproduced by us at home. Nothing, however, compares to the thrill of tasting it just where it was made. Bicol is famed for its spicy food, which is based largely on coconut and chilies – as evidenced in the likes of gulay na lada or Bicol Express (pork and local chilies cooked in coconut cream), laing (taro leaves with meat or seafood in coconut milk, spiced with chili, lemongrass and more) and local specialties featuring local pili nuts.

Delight your taste buds and other senses with what the region has to offer for I am going to provide you a complete list of delicacies to taste in Bicol so you may have an unforgettable experience. It may even entice you to return for more! First we have in the Bicol is the Province of Albay: (1) Bicol Express (2)Kocido (3)Kandinga & (4)Pinangat. Camarines Sur: (1)Kinalas (2)Sinarapan (3)Laing Pizza & (4)Bicol Express. Camarines Norte: (1)Sinantol (2)Kinunot & (3)Bicol Express. Sorsogon: (1)Baluko (2)Kinagang (3)Timitim & (4)Bicol Express. Masbate: (1)Carmelado de Masbateño (2) Sinanglay & (3)Ginataang Reemas. Catanduanes: (1)Latik (2)Steamed Mud Crabs (3)Ensaladang Fresh Pako (4)Binambam & (5)Bicol Express.

Nevertheless, nothing beats a genuine Bicol Express dish. This is, without a doubt, probably one of the best Bicol dishes. It is widely available and enjoyed by all Filipinos. It is a cuisine that's currently being remade in a proportion of households. So, when you are in the region, this should surely be on top of your list! Bicol Express or “sinilihan” is a mouthwatering, spicy delicacy made from long chilies or siling Mahaba, coconut milk, and pork. It is a flavored combo you never thought to exist. Not a fan of spicy food? Don’t fret, because there are plenty of restaurants in the area that serve many versions of the dish. In fact, in some parts of Bicol, Bicol Express is made without pork. Experience it for yourself and take your pick!

Ultimately, Bicol is a place exploding with a variety of flavors and culture reflected in the unique cuisine exclusively found in her quaint towns and barrios. I urge you to visit the finest destinations to experience Bicol cuisine, learn straight from the locals, notable chefs and experts from the region. Hear wonderful stories behind the people and communities that help make the region a must-visit.

ESSAY BY: RAQUION, DHANYLYNE A.

[iamherbalaria]

🌿"Pako" (accent on the O) is "fern" in Tagalog. We made Ensaladang Pako for breakfast. It can be eaten blanched or with sliced tomatoes, onions, and vinegar or calamansi and salt to taste. _ 🌿Pako plant medicine is high in vitamins A & C, manganese, and potassium. It helps with metabolism, boosts immunity, and complements a low-sugar, low-salt, low-fat diet. Super delicious, good for you, and fun to eat. 😋 _ #ancestralrootsmovement #filipinoplantmedicine #albularyalyn #fern #ferns #fernsalad #plantlove #organic #healthyeating #healing #healthyfood #healthybreakfast #veganeats #vegan #filipinowellbeing #plantphotography (at Cotabato City) https://www.instagram.com/p/B4vWntpAdlr/?igshid=hs2ezcgqo4a8

[veganpinay]

Pako salad, also known as ensaladang pako, which is among our most loved salads is usually prepared using fresh tomatoes and onions that add flavor to the vegetable fern's distinct taste.

[itchyfeetwanderlash]

PANDIN AND YAMBU LAKE Planning to go in Kayangan Lake Coron but don’t have extra budget or time to travel? This place located in Laguna will give you the Coron vibes you’ve been lookking for. How to get there? • Ride a van in Robinson Dasmariñas going to San Pablo City, Laguna • Upon reaching the city proper of San Pablo, ride a jeepney with a sign board “Ilog” • The last stop is in the entrance of Pandin Lake • From there you can either ride a tricycle going to the lake or trek for 10 minutes. I would suggest trekking instead of riding a tricycle; it would be a great experience. Things to Remember: • You can either walk in or have a reservation for the bamboo raft. • You may contact ate Tina-09079952983 or ate Siony-09299783565 for advance reservation. • Rate per pax is Php 350.00 which includes bamboo rafting for 4 hours, swimming and trek to Yambu Lake, food (one cup of rice, grilled tilapia, ensaladang pako, pinoy shrimp patties, banana) and bottled water. • Comfort room is available for Php 5.00 • They also offer souvenirs like ref magnet, key chains, wallets etc. Things to do: • swimming • trekking • fishing • picture taking Total Cost: • Van Transportation – Php 276.00 (back and forth) • Jeep – Php 22.00 (back and forth) • Bamboo Raft Package – Php 350.00 • TOTAL = Php 648.00

[fb101-blog]

@foxyfolksy: FIDDLEHEAD FERN SALAD (ENSALADANG PAKO) Get the recipe👉https://t.co/3HJHvUzpet Pin it for later📍… https://t.co/dntA8pR4Q4

http://twitter.com/foxyfolksy

[foxyfolksy]

FIDDLEHEAD FERN SALAD (ENSALADANG PAKO)

Crisp and refreshing salad with fiddlehead fern as main ingredient, made tangy and flavorful with white vinegar, sugar and salted eggs.

Get the recipe 👉 www.foxyfolksy.com/fiddlehead-fern-salad-ensaladang-pako

Pin it for later 📍 www.pinterest.com/pin/356769601724286092

Check our YouTube Channel 👉 www.youtube.com/c/FoxyFolksyM1005

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[touristguidebuzz]

Relaxing at Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort featuring Photos Captured by OPPO F3

Out of Town Blog Relaxing at Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort featuring Photos Captured by OPPO F3

Relaxing at Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort

*Photos Captured by OPPO F3

If you are looking for a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, one such place to add to your itinerary is Tiaong, Quezon. Aside from its stock of deep coconut plantations, it also has an extensive collection of resorts and cultural heritage parks perfect for those who love to relax and to look back at the rich colonial culture and history of the Philippines in a beautiful rural setting.

The Labasin Hydroelectric Falls of Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort

Situated in Lusacan in Tiaong, Quezon, Villa Escudero (official website), a vast coconut hacienda converted into a resort and leisure park, is a famous vacation destination for foreign and local tourists alike. The Villa has an aesthetic beauty made by nature, then developed by man, that boasts an enchanting view of the river flowing from Mt. Banahaw. Among the resort’s amenities are Coco Pavilion, a museum, rustic rooms, a chapel, and a sparkling blue water swimming pool with jacuzzi on the side. Activities include fishing, biking, rafting, indoor games like table tennis and billiards, chasing waterfalls, carabao riding, and cultural shows, which are performed every Friday to Sunday.

Simply green

Things to do at Villa Escudero

The beautiful lake-side spot of Villa Escudero has lots to offer to local and foreign vacationers regarding culture, history, and activities. Discover the best things to do in this relaxing spot with this list of must-try activities:

Ride the e-jeep or carabao through the rural setting of the Villa

At the entrance of Villa Escudero, you will be welcomed by the staff that will check your ticket. Upon entering, guests have two riding options: by carabao or e-jeep, which then transports them to the reception area. If guests want to see more of Villa Escudero, they can ask the front desk to use the e-jeep or carabao to roam around the area. Or guests can stroll leisurely on their own around the Villa.

Chomp down on heirloom Philippine cuisine at the Coco Pavilion

Buffet breakfast and dinner are served at the Coco Pavilion, which features heirloom Philippine cuisines. Different sets of food are usually served every Feast of the Ascension: The Official Fiesta of Villa Escudero–pritong puel, pritong umpiang ubod, kinilaw na tanigue, ensaladang talakitok, chicken galantina, pinais na hipon sa kulis, pastel de lengua, Villa Escudeo estofado, callo madrileña. jardinera, adobong talong, roast whole lamb, jeweled rice, sotanghon special, crema de ube, palamig na melon, and adobong mani. Plantation meals serve are kinilaw na twakang, kulawong talong, nilasing na hipon, sinaing na tambakol at halya, kilawing tagalog, adobong batangan, iniha wna tagalog, villa fried chicken, ginataang balatong, ubod, sugpo at santol, pusit at mustasa, kuratsa at dahon ng sili, alimango at kamias, and bakule sa pandan, bringhe, pritong lunot na saging binudburan ng sangkaka, ginataang halo halo, pichi pichi, at sinukmani.

Eat a buffet lunch at the foot of waterfalls

Buffet lunch at the foot of the waterfalls

Eating at the foot of the waterfalls at Villa Escudero is one of its iconic activities. The lunch menu includes tinolang tulya, sinuam na mais, kalabasa soup, tinolang manok, tagalog salad, pako salad, acharang labanos, gado gado salad, lechong manok, acharang papaya, inihaw na baboy, tadyang, and isda. Also on the menu are kalderetang baka, lumpiang gulay, ginatang kalabasa at sitaw, laksa, pancit ala Villa Escudero, pancit canton, galamaka, guinumis, and banana que.

Appreciate art collections and religious artifacts by visiting the AERA Museum

Villa Escudero Museum

The AERA Museum is one of the most recognized attractions at Villa Escudero. In front of the museum, you will think twice about whether it is really a museum because of its pink architectural building structured like a Catholic church. Unusual collections of religious artifacts and an assortment of antique items are displayed inside. Walk through the anthropological and archeological artifacts, paintings, and statues that illustrate hundreds of years of Filipino and world heritage, which the Escudero family have collected from their travels. Note, however, that taking photos inside the museum is strictly prohibited.

Witness the Philippine cultural show

Villa Escudero values customs and traditions. As a result, cultural shows are presented by skilled performers, highlighting cultural dances from the different ethnolinguistic regions of the Philippines. The cultural shows are performed every Friday-Sunday while guests are enjoying their lunch.

Bamboo rafting at Labasin Lake

Labasin Lake viewing the magical Mt. Banahaw. Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort

The best time to do bamboo rafting is in the late afternoon. Only two persons are allowed in a bamboo raft. Enjoy paddling while relishing a picturesque view of the magical Mt. Banahaw.

Fishing at the Labasin Lake

The lake is a breeding location for tilapias, which can be served at the buffet. Since tilapias here are countless, guests are given the chance to go fishing. What tilapias the guests may catch can be grilled or taken home free of charge.

Watch various types of birds in the coconut farm

Coconut plantation

At Villa Escudero, guests may participate in birdwatching events. As many as 90 species of birds are found at the resort.

Stroll through the Villa on a bike

If guests choose not to board an e-jeep nor to experience riding a carabao, biking is an alternative method to rove the Villa. Many types of bike rentals are available: bikes with sidecars for family excursions, mountain bikes, and bamboo bikes.

Swim in the pool with jacuzzi on the side

The sparkling blue water swimming pool of Villa Escudero

There are three swimming pools: one pool with a playground is for kids, another pool with a stunning view of Labasin Lake is for teenagers, and a 5-foot-deep pool with 4 jacuzzis on the side is for the adults.

Stay overnight in the rustic room

Inside the rustic room

If you want to relax and feel the rural vibes, book a rustic room that gives you the ambiance of a home away from home.

Play indoor games at the recreational facility

If you want to protect your skin from the scourging heat of the sun, indoor games and activities such as table tennis, billiards, and videoke are offered.

Timeline of Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort

la EscuderoIn 1870, the Hacienda Escudero, at the time a sugarcane plantation, was developed by Placido Escudero and Claudia Marasigan, who reputedly acquired the land from a local native owner.

An airplane parked near the entrance

In 1929, the management of Escudero Plantation was transferred to Don Arsenio Escudero–the only son of Placido and Claudia–and Doña Rosario Adap. Don Arsenio then transformed the hacienda into an extensive coconut plantation. Since that time, the 800-hectare land, with a coconut factory and hydroelectric plant, has established itself as a well-known site in the region.

In 1970, Don Ado Escudero, the venerated son of Don Arsenio and Doña Rosario, after studying in New York, started to help managing the coconut plantation. However, during those times, the coconut industry in the country was facing a fluctuating demand in the marketplace. To address the situation, he used the knowledge from his formal studies in hotel and restaurant management, and so Villa Escudero was conceived in 1981.

Rustic room viewed outside

Villa Escudero was opened initially by Don Ado to his family and friends, and then later, to the general public. From its beginnings as a venue for special occasions like conferences and weddings, among others, Villa Escudero has earned a reputation for being a popular picnic ground, a beautiful resort, and a heritage showcase of the many Philippine cultures–for locals and foreign tourists alike. The cultural shows, the museum and the resort itself are the living testimony that the Filipino heritage is still alive. The experience of being in a rural area showing the vibrant and rich history of the country is beyond nostalgia.

Villa Escudero, a hacienda-turned-cultural heritage park, is now a well-known destination to unwind, to relax, and to learn about the profound historical and cultural traditions of the early and modern Filipinos.

Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort Location: Km 91, Tiaong, Quezon Sales Office: 1059 Estrada Street, Malate 1004 Metro Manila Telephone: +63 (02) 523-0392, +63 (02) 521-0830, +63 (02) 523-2944, +63 917-583-7727, +63 919-993-4744, +63 923-741-0605 Email: info@villaescudero.com

Note: This stay was sponsored by Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort.

Also Read: Eight Beautiful Beaches in Quezon Province

Relaxing at Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort featuring Photos Captured by OPPO F3 Allandale Antenero

[thehungrykat1]

Kanyaman Filipino Food Festival at Novotel Manila

Novotel Manila Araneta Center is celebrating this month’s Philippine Independence Day with its KANYAMAN Filipino Food Festival at Food Exchange Manila, their all day dining restaurant. This two-week long fiesta is available from June 8 to June 22, 2017 and diners can savour a breathtaking buffet of Filipino and Kapampangan specialties courtesy of Celebrity Chef Sau del Rosario.

The Hungry Kat was invited to the opening program for the Kanyaman Filipino Food Festival last June 8, 2017 at Novotel Manila. Food Exchange Manila is becoming one of my favorite hotel buffet restaurants, especially with its central location in Quezon City and its relatively affordable rates. I had a wonderful summer staycation at Novotel Manila a few months ago (read about it here) so it’s great to be back at my new hideaway. Chef Sau del Rosario received his Culinary Arts training in France and has had numerous international exposure and accolades, so I was really excited to once again see what classic and creative Kapampangan dishes he has prepared for us that afternoon.

Kanyaman actually means delicious in the Pampanga dialect and Chef Sau del Rosario will be highlighting Filipino gustatory delights from his hometown and the culinary capital of the Philippines, Pampanga. Chef Sau operates two restaurants in Pampanga, namely, Cafe Fleur and 25 Seeds where he brings out his best creations and heirloom recipes from his mother’s kitchen. The Kanyaman Filipino Food Festival is a way to bring those Kapampangan dishes right here in Manila so that we do not have to drive all the way north to appreciate these delicacies.

Chef Sau’s Filipino dishes are spread all throughout the buffet area at Food Exchange Manila. While the other stations are still available (See previous blog here) like the Indian Station, Seafood Station and Japanese Station, I was really amazed with all the colorful dishes that were presented for the guests.

Starting at the appetizer station, I was immediately drawn to the Tamales Pampanguena which I encountered only for the first time. This is made of rice flour, anato seeds, and chicken powder with salted eggs and coconut cream. I like its soft texture similar to a creamy custard but oozing with Filipino flavors.

The Chicken Galentina was also a delight to the taste buds with its combination of chicken, sausage, chorizo, and spam with peas, eggs, and cheese. This is a dish that is popular at family gatherings during Christmas and holidays but any day is a good time to have it.

Other appetizers on the table included the (clockwise from top left) Ensaladang Talong, Pako Salad with prawns, watermelon and kesong puti, Kinilaw na Tanigue, and the Gambas with Shiitake.

This work of art is the Maya Maya Mayonesa with its steamed maya maya fish fillet, mayonnaise, eggs, pickles, and olives. I think I will feel guilty if I was the one to break up this dish.

Another interesting item is the Tinapa Mousse. This is made with tinapa, white wine, butter, and fresh dill and it really does taste like a tinapa fish. You can eat this with bread or just by itself.

The Kanyaman Filipino Food Festival also serves some very appetizing noodles at the Noodle Station including Pancit Malabon, Pancit Gisado, and Sotanghon which you can combine with different sauces like luglug, aligue and squid ink.

Food Exchange Manila’s huge brick oven is also hard at work during the food festival because it is offering a Sisig Pizza and even a Longganisa Pizza. These fusion pizza recipes will definitely stand out and are really quite a treat.

Pampanga is best known for its outstanding sisig so there is no question that the highlight of the Kanyaman Filipino Food Festival will be the Sisig with Foie Gras. Filipinos just love sisig, which Anthony Bourdain recently suggested would be the dish that will put the Philippines on the global foodie map. These savory pork cheeks are cooked with onions, chicken liver, and siling labuyo, but Chef Sau upgrades it further by topping it with a delectable seared foie gras. This is absolute indulgence.

Even the paella has been made into a Kapampangan delicacy as Chef Sau unveiled his Truffled Sisig Paella. This is a complete meal by itself with steaming hot paella rice topped with chunky bits of delicious sisig with hints of truffle oil. 

For the main dishes, guests can start with the familiar Kare Kare Macadamia which has pork belly in peanut butter and coconut cream sauces combined with truffle oil and macadamia nuts.

Other notable dishes include the (clockwise from top left) Beef Salpicao, Rellenong Bangus, Lamb Shank Kaldereta, and Seafood Pinakbet with loads of mussels, prawns, squid, and vegetables in bagoong.

One of my other favorites at the food festival was the Duck Adobo. Instead of the usual pork or chicken adobo, this one comes with duck cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, whole black peppers, bay leaves, garlic, onion and eggs. The duck intensifies the flavors of the adobo dish even further and I think I’m craving for this dish again right now.

In-between our rounds going through the buffet stations, Novotel Manila also showcased the creations of renowned fashion designer Philip Torres, who also hails from Angeles Pampanga, featuring his latest collection entitled “PIDAYIT” – a synthesis of homespun art and modern styles. These were presented by Binibining Pilipinas 2017 beauty titlists including 1st runner up Ms. Charmaine Elima, pictured below with Novotel Manila General Manager, Mr. Bernd Schneider and Philip Torres.

Now it’s time to head to the carving station where the roasted pork belly was just waiting to be conquered. Chef Sau gives us not just one, but Three Kinds of Roasted Pork Belly infused with Bringhe, Mangoes, and Chocolate with Cheese.

Each of the pork belly dishes had their own amazing qualities. I liked the pork belly with bringhe, a native Kapampangan paella dish infused inside the pork belly. But what really stood out was the pork belly with chocolate because I had never seen pork belly prepared like this. It might not be for everyone, but it is definitely unique.

They also offered the big Salted Crusted White Salmon with calamansi and coconut cream at the carving station.

Finally, another masterpiece would be the Prime Rib Bistek seasoned with soy sauce, calamansi and pepper. This Filipino version of the steak comes with even more salty flavors that we love. You can have it cooked at the grilling station according to your preferred doneness.

Aside from the highlighted Filipino dishes, Food Exchange Manila's buffet also features live cooking stations like the Chinese section with its piping hot noodles and soups plus the Grill Station where you can have your fresh seafood and meat grilled. Drinks are also included in the buffet and you can choose from among the different iced tea variants at the Beverage Station.

What’s a Filipino fiesta without dessert? Aside from the roving Sorbetes ice cream vendor with his taho cart, there are several other local desserts at the Dessert Station like hot-off-the-grill Bibingka, Puto Bumbong, Polvoron, Halo Halo, kakanin and others.

Perhaps the best dessert item you can find would be the Leche Flan Turon with Langka. The sweet and crispy turon wrapper gives way to an absolutely fantastic leche flan filling that will make you want to go back for another. Unfortunately, this was the last piece because everybody was raving about this dessert, so you better get yours quickly.

Novotel Manila has more good news because for a limited time only, Food Exchange Manila buffet rates for the Kanyaman Filipino Food Festival is only at P1,200 nett on weekdays (Monday to Thursday lunch and dinner / Friday lunch) and P1,600 nett during weekends (Friday dinner / Saturday and Sunday) from its original prices of P1,488 and P1,888, respectively. How many more reasons do you need? Make sure to call for reservations because I’m sure everybody will be heading to Novotel Manila in the next two weeks. See you there!

Food Exchange Manila at Novotel Manila

General Aguinaldo Avenue, Araneta Center, Quezon City

990-7888

www.novotel.com

www.facebook.com/NovotelManilaAranetaCenter

[kapampangan-traveller]

A true Northern Luzon delicacy, the well known BAGNET made its way in the midst of the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, thank you to the strong minds of the family that envisions this restaurant despite the strong food business competition in Pampanga. Started with a two week period soft launch last November 2016, Nineteen Bale Bagnet initially caters close friends and locals, and now serving more clients, even ones from Metro Manila.

According to the owners, they decided to keep the menu simple, focusing on what they mainly offer, CRISPY BAGNET. With different sauces and sides to match with, this restaurant is a must try!

Warm appetizing soup

  Here is their simple menu that truly depicts the name of the restaurant. (Price may change without prior notice)

Let us go with food they served. This review is a challenge for me since of my personal preference of not eating pork. Nonetheless, my co-blogger friends gave me the idea of the pork-related dishes:

The Kare Kare Bagnet is the star of the menu, for me. Though I have not eaten the pork, the kare kare sauce made it remarkable – thick and bursting with nutty goodness.

The Curry Bagnet – the curry sauce is really tasty, unlike the bland curry dishes I have tasted in other restaurants.

The Boneless Bangus – the one I mainly ate, came with real crisp and full of flavor.

If you are coming in groups, best to try the BAGNET SAMPLER where you can try three tasty sauces and crispy bagnet good for 3 persons.

BAGNET SAMPLER

  Perfect side dishes are the PAKO SALAD and ENSALADANG TALONG:

PAKO SALAD

ENSALADANG TALONG

For the sweet endings, the SPECIAL CHOCNUT TURON was a surprise! Loved the mixed taste of the wrapped banana with its ice cream sidings! You can have it served after your main course. 

The restaurant is located in a residential area, but not far from the national road. The nearest landmark is the San Isidro Integrated School, and the street in front of the Brgy. Quebiawan arch in City of San Fernando. Enter the street and turn left as the road splits. From there, you can see the facade of the restaurant. No need to take tricycle ride to the restaurant.

  NINETEEN BALE BAGNET | Fusion of Northern and Central Luzon Flavors A true Northern Luzon delicacy, the well known BAGNET made its way in the midst of the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, thank you to the strong minds of the family that envisions this restaurant despite the strong food business competition in Pampanga.

[itchyfeetwanderlash]

PANDIN AND YAMBU LAKE Planning to go in Kayangan Lake Coron but don’t have extra budget or time to travel? This place located in Laguna will give you the Coron vibes you’ve been lookking for. How to get there? • Ride a van in Robinson Dasmariñas going to San Pablo City, Laguna • Upon reaching the city proper of San Pablo, ride a jeepney with a sign board “Ilog” • The last stop is in the entrance of Pandin Lake • From there you can either ride a tricycle going to the lake or trek for 10 minutes. I would suggest trekking instead of riding a tricycle; it would be a great experience. Things to Remember: • You can either walk in or have a reservation for the bamboo raft. • You may contact ate Tina-09079952983 or ate Siony-09299783565 for advance reservation. • Rate per pax is Php 350.00 which includes bamboo rafting for 4 hours, swimming and trek to Yambu Lake, food (one cup of rice, grilled tilapia, ensaladang pako, pinoy shrimp patties, banana) and bottled water. • Comfort room is available for Php 5.00 • They also offer souvenirs like ref magnet, key chains, wallets etc. Things to do: • swimming • trekking • fishing • picture taking Total Cost: • Van Transportation – Php 276.00 (back and forth) • Jeep – Php 22.00 (back and forth) • Bamboo Raft Package – Php 350.00 • TOTAL = Php 648.00