Food
 
Filipino cuisine has Spanish and Chinese influences. The Filipino diet consists mainly of meat, seafood and rice.  Along with these foods, vegetables, bread and poultry supplement the diet.  Almost all Filipino food is derived from the Spanish.  The second largest contribution to Filipino dishes is from the Chinese.

For the poor family, seafood, vegetables and rice are common meals.  Meat is served when it is affordable, usually only for special occasions such as fiestas or holidays.  Three meals a day are eaten, with dinner in the early evening hours.  For the middle and upper class families, three meals and two snacks are common.  Dinner is usually served in the evening.  Popular morning and afternoon snacks are called "
merienda" and "pulutan" (finger foods) are served with alcoholic drinks.  Standard dishes are always served with rice. 

At every social function or small get together, the hosting family prepares a meal.  To most Filipinos, the MEAL is expected of the host and may be offended if no food or drink was offered.  Offering a meal or snack for the smallest of visits conveys respect to the visitors. 

Meals are usually eaten with a fork and spoon.  People in rural areas use their hands instead of having to waste water on washing utensils. 
 

   Common Dishes

   Recipe                

 
 
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Created by Cynthia L. Lopez