Language/Cebuano/Culture/Food-and-Dining
Cebuano cuisine is a reflection of the rich and diverse culture of Cebu. Its cuisine is influenced by the Chinese, Spanish, Malay, and American cultures. Being the center of trade and commerce in the Visayas region, Cebu has become a melting pot of different culinary practices. In this lesson, you will learn about traditional Cebuano cuisine, popular dishes, and dining customs and etiquette.
Traditional Cebuano Cuisine
Cebuano cuisine is known for its simplicity, use of fresh ingredients, and bold flavors. Cebuanos love dishes that are savory and sour. One of the most popular ingredients in Cebuano cuisine is vinegar or suka, which is used as a dipping sauce or as a marinade. Here are some traditional Cebuano dishes:
Lechon
Lechon is a roasted pig that is stuffed with lemongrass, garlic, salt, and locally grown herbs. It is roasted over charcoal until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. Lechon is often served during special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and fiestas. It is best eaten with a dipping sauce made of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and chili.
| Cebuano | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Lechon | /le·chon/ | Roasted pig |
Kinilaw
Kinilaw is a type of ceviche that is made of raw fish or seafood that is marinated in vinegar, onion, garlic, chili, and salt. It is a popular appetizer that is often eaten with rice or puso, which is rice that is cooked inside a woven coconut leaf.
| Cebuano | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Kinilaw | /ki·ni·law/ | Ceviche |
Pochero
Pochero is a stew that is made of either beef or pork, and a variety of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and beans. The broth is usually flavored with tomato sauce and beef or pork broth. Pochero is best eaten with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, calamansi juice, garlic, and chili.
| Cebuano | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Pochero | /po·che·ro/ | Stew |
Popular Dishes
Aside from traditional Cebuano cuisine, there are also popular dishes that have become staples in Cebuano households. These dishes are often eaten during breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Adobo
Adobo is a dish that is made of either pork or chicken that is marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and peppercorns. It is then simmered until the meat is tender and the flavors are absorbed. Adobo can be served with rice or puso.
| Cebuano | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Adobo | /a·do·bo/ | Adobo |
Sinigang
Sinigang is a sour soup that is made of either pork or fish, vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, okra, and water spinach, tamarind, and other spices. It is a popular comfort food that is often eaten during rainy days or when one is feeling under the weather. Sinigang is best eaten with rice.
| Cebuano | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Sinigang | /si·ni·gang/ | Sour soup |
Fried Rice
Fried rice is a dish that is made of cooked rice that is stir-fried with garlic, onions, and other seasonings, and usually has bits of meat or vegetables. It is a popular breakfast dish that is often accompanied by a fried egg, dried fish, or pork tocino.
| Cebuano | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Rice | /Pinaupong manok/ | Fried Rice |
Dining Customs and Etiquette
Cebuanos value the act of sharing food with others. When eating with others, it is customary to share dishes and offer others to taste the food that you are eating. Unlike in other cultures, it is not unusual for Cebuanos to use their bare hands when eating, especially when eating rice or any dish that requires one to scoop the food with their hands. However, when eating in a formal setting, utensils are used.
When dining with elders or those who have higher social status, it is important to wait for them to start eating before you begin. It is also customary to offer the first portion of rice or dish to the eldest member of the group as a sign of respect.
In a formal setting such as a restaurant, it is customary to leave a small amount of food on one's plate to show that the food was abundant and the guest was satisfied. It is also customary to leave a small amount of drink on the glass to show that the guest was not thirsty.
When dining with others, it is polite to always offer a serving of rice to anyone who needs it. Chewing with an open mouth or making loud noises while eating are considered impolite. It is also important to use a handkerchief or tissue when wiping one's mouth rather than using one's sleeve.
Cebuanos believe that food is a way to connect with others and to show hospitality. It is a reflection of the Cebuano culture and the warm and generous spirit of its people.