13 Filipino Recipes That Bring Home to the Table

There's something about Filipino food that feels instantly comforting and familiar, no matter where you are. I love how these recipes bring people together with bold flavors, hearty meals, and a sense of tradition that makes every bite special. Whenever I cook them, it feels like a little piece of home is right at the table, ready to share with everyone.

A stack of three purple pancakes topped with sweet purple paste and white strips, served on a white plate with a red checkered cloth nearby.

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Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

These golden banana rolls are quick to make and always feel like a treat fresh from the fryer. They're crisp on the outside and naturally sweet inside, making them a perfect way to end a meal or share as a snack. This dish works well when you want something familiar yet festive on the table. It's one of those recipes that reminds people of gatherings and afternoons at home. That's what makes it such a natural pick for recipes that bring Filipino comfort to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

Air Fryer Lumpia

Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Lumpia is a go-to finger food that's perfect for family meals, parties, or even as a quick bite. Using the air fryer cuts down on fuss while still giving you the crunch that makes this dish so popular. These rolls are easy to prepare in batches, so they fit both weeknight dinners and bigger get-togethers. They're always one of the first plates to be emptied. That's why they fit right in with recipes that carry a sense of home to the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

Pancit Bihon Guisado

A fork lifting a portion of chicken and noodles from a bowl of stir-fry. — Pancit Bihon Guisado. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Pancit is a dish that often takes center stage at celebrations, but it's just as good for a simple family dinner. The noodles, vegetables, and protein all come together in one pan, making it practical and filling. It's a recipe that cooks fairly quickly and is easy to adjust for the crowd you're feeding. This one always feels festive even when made on a regular evening. That's why it's a dish that speaks of Filipino traditions at the table.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon Guisado

Filipino Spaghetti

A bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich meat sauce placed on a red and white checkered tablecloth. — Filipino Spaghetti. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This version of spaghetti has a sweetness that sets it apart from the classic, making it especially loved by kids. It's hearty enough to be the main dish at gatherings or weekend dinners at home. Cooking it doesn't take long, and it's one of those meals where leftovers get finished quickly. It's also a dish that sparks memories for many families. That connection makes it a great example of food that feels like home.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Spaghetti

Ensaladang Mangga

A white plate with a mixed fruit and vegetable salad, including mango, apple, red bell pepper, and onions, garnished with herbs. — Ensaladang Mangga. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This mango salad is fresh, tangy, and a perfect side to balance out rich dishes. It comes together quickly, needing just a few minutes of prep. It's a common pairing with grilled or fried mains, making meals feel more complete. The bright flavors make it stand out on the table without much effort. That's why it's a staple when you want dishes that reflect Filipino comfort.
Get the Recipe: Ensaladang Mangga

Filipino Leche Flan

Leche flan caramel creme brulee on a plate with a spoon. — Filipino Leche Flan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This custard dessert is creamy, smooth, and often the highlight of special meals. It takes a bit of time to set, but the prep is simple, and the results are worth it. The richness makes it feel right at home on any holiday or Sunday spread. It's one of those dishes that guests always look forward to seeing. That's why it's considered a centerpiece dessert that carries the feel of Filipino home cooking.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Leche Flan

Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket. — Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pork belly bites are crisp on the outside and tender inside, giving you all the crunch without the heavy work of deep frying. The air fryer makes the process easier and quicker, perfect for weeknight meals. They're great on their own or paired with rice and dipping sauce. This recipe brings the comfort of a traditional dish in a more practical way. That's why it works so well when you want a piece of home at the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

Filipino Chicken Adobo

Two pieces of braised meat in a dark, rich sauce, seasoned with whole peppercorns and a bay leaf, in a pan. — Filipino Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Adobo is one of those dishes that feels right any time of day, whether for lunch or dinner. It's hearty, flavorful, and comes together without being complicated. The sauce pairs perfectly with rice, making it a regular in many households. Cooking it is straightforward and doesn't need a long list of ingredients. That's why it's a recipe that always reminds people of home.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Chicken Adobo

Cucumber and Mango Salad

A white plate containing a salad with cucumber slices, mango chunks, red onion, and fresh herbs sits on a white surface. — Cucumber and Mango Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This salad is light, crisp, and quick to make, giving a refreshing contrast to heavier mains. The mix of sweet and fresh flavors feels bright on the table. It's ready in minutes, so it works well even on busy days. Serving it alongside grilled or fried dishes balances the meal beautifully. That's what makes it a simple yet familiar recipe connected to Filipino flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber and Mango Salad

Ube Pancakes

These pancakes bring the unique flavor and color of ube to a breakfast favorite. They cook up easily on a griddle, making mornings feel special without extra effort. The vibrant look makes them fun for kids and adults alike. They're great for weekends or even as a mid-day treat. That touch of ube flavor makes them one of those recipes that carry the spirit of home.
Get the Recipe: Ube Pancakes

Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad

A glass bowl filled with a creamy fruit salad, featuring colorful fruits and marshmallows, placed on a blue cloth. — Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This sweet salad is often served during holidays and special occasions. It's creamy, chilled, and filled with fruit, making it both refreshing and rich. The recipe doesn't take much effort, and it's easy to prepare in advance. It's a staple in many households when family and friends gather. That's why it's a dish that instantly feels connected to Filipino traditions.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Overhead shot of a plate of chicken adobo with rice and scallions on the side. — Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This version of Chicken Adobo comes together faster with the Instant Pot while keeping the familiar flavor everyone expects. It's convenient for busy days when you still want a meal that feels home-cooked. The sauce and chicken are just as comforting as the traditional way. It's easy enough to put on rotation during the week. That's why it's a practical way to bring Filipino home cooking to the table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Chicken Feet Adobo

Chicken adobo feet one white plate with cilantro garnish. — Chicken Feet Adobo. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

This recipe takes a classic cooking style and applies it to chicken feet, turning them into a flavorful dish. It's common in Filipino homes and is often made to share with family or friends. The dish is simple to prepare, though it does take a bit of time to get it just right. It's hearty and usually served with rice. That connection to traditional cooking makes it a strong reminder of home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Feet Adobo