Bayawan is a charming city located in the province of Negros Oriental, Central Visayas, Philippines. With a population of approximately 119,000, it is the largest city in the region and is known for its relaxed lifestyle and friendly people. The city is a great place to enjoy authentic Filipino cuisine, which is a fusion of indigenous Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American influences. The cuisine is rich in flavor, spice, and texture, making it one of the most unique and enjoyable food cultures in the world.
The food in Bayawan reflects the city's laid-back atmosphere and is primarily focused on comfort foods that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. A typical day in Bayawan starts with a hearty breakfast that includes traditional Filipino staples like rice, eggs, and meat. Rice is a staple food in the Philippines and is served in almost every meal. Fried rice or "sinangag" is a popular breakfast dish, which is made by sautéing cooked rice with garlic, onions, and soy sauce. It is often served with fried eggs, cured meat or "tapa," and a side of sliced tomatoes and cucumber.
Another popular breakfast option is "tocino," which is a sweetened cured pork dish. The meat is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and spices, then fried until caramelized. It is often served with garlic fried rice and eggs.
During lunchtime, the locals typically enjoy a hearty meal that includes a combination of rice, meat, and vegetables. "Adobo" is a popular dish that is made by simmering meat (chicken, pork, or beef) in a sauce made with vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves. The meat is tender and flavorful and is often served with rice, steamed vegetables, and a side of pickled papaya or "atsara."
Seafood is also abundant in Bayawan, which is located along the coast of the Bohol Sea. "Kinilaw" is a popular seafood dish that is similar to ceviche. It is made by marinating raw fish or seafood in vinegar, citrus juice, onions, and chili peppers. The acid from the vinegar and citrus juice "cooks" the fish, and it is often served with sliced onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
For snacks, locals often enjoy "kakanin," which are traditional Filipino rice cakes. "Suman" is a popular kakanin made from glutinous rice that is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. It is often served with coconut jam or "latik."
In the evenings, Bayawan comes alive with street food vendors and night markets. "Balut" is a popular street food that is essentially a fertilized duck egg that has been boiled and eaten whole. It may seem like an acquired taste, but it is a must-try for those who are willing to venture outside their comfort zones.
For those looking for something a bit less adventurous, "isaw" is a popular grilled street food made from chicken or pork intestines. It is seasoned with spices and grilled until crispy. Another popular street food is "kwek-kwek," which are hard-boiled quail eggs that are dipped in a batter made from flour and water and then deep-fried until crispy. They are often served with a sweet and sour sauce.
In terms of drinks, Bayawan offers a variety of refreshing and delicious options. "Buko juice" is a popular drink made from young coconut water. It is refreshing and perfect for hot days. "Gulaman" is a cold beverage made from jelly-like cubes made from agar and flavored with pandan leaves. It is often served with crushed ice and sweetened milk.