Most people think of sandy beaches, humid rainforests, and lazy palm trees when the word “Philippines” comes up.

All of those gorgeous views are definitely reasons to visit the country of islands. But if there’s one thing that an experienced traveler will tell you, it’s that the food in the Philippines is also a top reason to visit.

From various snacks sold on every bustling street to desserts made with cereal and tapioca, food in the Philippines offers an array of delicacies that can’t be missed.

Check out these 5 dishes next time you visit:

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1. Pancit Bihon Guisado

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Noodle lovers are going to gobble up this traditional dish (and might even ask for seconds)! Thin rice noodles are fried up in soy sauce and citrus then sliced meats and veggies are added to the mix.

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2. Crispy Pata

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If you love giant turkey legs at the fair, you’ll love crispy pata. It’s a giant pork leg boiled until impossibly tender and then deep fried. Crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside.

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3. Bibingka

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This coconut rice cake is so delicious we’re surprised it’s not sold at pancake houses across America! A melt in your mouth treat, bibingka is traditionally cooked in clay pots lined with leaves and usually eaten for breakfast around Christmas time.

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4. Balut

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It looks scary, but don’t knock it til you try it! Balut is a developing bird embryo (usually duck) that is boiled and eaten from the shell. There’s an art to eating balut: crack open a tiny hole at the top of the egg and sprinkle in a little salt before downing the egg broth and eating the inside.

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5. Halo-Halo

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This popular Filipino dessert is made from shaved ice and evaporated milk. Toppings like sweet beans, coconut, fruit, and colorful tapioca jellies are added. There’s no better treat than Halo-Halo on a hot day at the beach!

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Hungry to try each dish?

Come to the Philippines with us in 2019 for Jesus Global Youth Day. The event will bring speakers, bands, and spiritual leaders from around the world together for a day of worship, giving you a chance to travel, meet new people, worship Christ, and try these delicious foods!