Baguio City, also known as the City of Pines, is a mountain resort town located in the Cordillera region of the Philippines. It is situated about 1,540 meters above sea level, making it a perfect destination for those who want to escape the scorching heat of the lowlands. The city has a population of approximately 350,000 people, and it is known for its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food.
The people of Baguio City lead a relaxed lifestyle, and this is reflected in their food culture. The city's food scene is a melting pot of different cultures, including the Ilocano, Kankanaey, and Igorot cultures. The city is also home to a significant number of Chinese, Korean, and Japanese immigrants, making it a great place to sample authentic Asian cuisine.
One of the most popular dishes in Baguio City is Pinikpikan, a traditional Igorot dish made by slaughtering a live chicken using a special ritual. The chicken is then cooked and served with rice, vegetables, and spices. Another popular dish is the Ilocano dish called Bagnet, which is a deep-fried pork belly served with tomato, onion, and bagoong (fermented fish or shrimp paste). Bagnet is often enjoyed with rice and is perfect for those who crave crispy and savory food.
Another staple food in Baguio City is the famous strawberry taho. Taho is a popular Filipino snack made of silken tofu, brown sugar syrup, and sago pearls. In Baguio, the addition of freshly picked strawberries makes it a must-try. Another popular snack is the ube jam, made from the purple yam locally known as "ube." This sweet and creamy jam is a perfect spread for bread or as a topping for desserts.
When it comes to drinks, Baguio City is famous for its Arabica coffee beans. These coffee beans are grown locally and roasted to perfection, giving the coffee a unique flavor and aroma. The city also produces delicious fruit wines, including strawberry, blueberry, and passion fruit wines. These fruit wines are perfect for those who want to enjoy a light and refreshing drink.
The people of Baguio City typically have three meals a day, with breakfast being the most important. Breakfast usually consists of rice, egg, and a choice of meat or fish. For lunch and dinner, people often enjoy rice with a variety of viands, including pork, beef, chicken, and fish. Street food is also prevalent in Baguio City, with vendors selling grilled meat skewers, fried fish, and different types of fried snacks.
One unique aspect of the food culture in Baguio City is the night market. The night market is open from around 9 PM to midnight and offers a wide variety of street food and local delicacies. Some of the most popular street foods include tempura, kikiam, isaw (chicken or pork intestines), and balut (a fertilized duck egg). The night market is a great place to experience the vibrant food culture of Baguio City.
Baguio City is a great destination for those who want to experience the unique food culture of the Cordillera region. From traditional dishes like Pinikpikan and Bagnet to snacks like strawberry taho and ube jam, there is something for everyone. The relaxed lifestyle of the people in Baguio City is reflected in their food culture, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy delicious food.