Warmth in Every Bite: Filipino Comfort Foods for the Cold Season

As the chilly winds sweep through the Philippines, there's nothing quite like cozying up with a steaming bowl of comfort food to ward off the cold. From hearty soups to savory stews, Filipino cuisine offers a treasure trove of dishes that bring warmth and comfort during the colder months.

In this culinary journey, we'll explore some beloved Filipino comfort foods perfect for the cold season, including a simple recipe for one of the most cherished dishes.

Arroz Caldo

Ingredients

• 1 cup glutinous rice (malagkit)

• 1 cup regular rice

• 8 cups chicken broth

• 1 lb chicken, cut into serving pieces

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced thinly

• Fish sauce (patis) or salt, to taste

• Ground black pepper, to taste

• Hard-boiled eggs, sliced

• Spring onions, chopped

• Fried garlic for garnish

• Calamansi or lemon wedges

Steps:

1. In a pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until aromatic.

2. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned.

3. Pour in the glutinous rice and regular rice. Stir to coat with the oil and spices.

4. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken is tender, stirring occasionally.

5. Season with fish sauce or salt and ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.

6. Ladle the arroz caldo into bowls. Top with sliced hard-boiled eggs, chopped spring onions, and fried garlic.

7. Serve hot with calamansi or lemon wedges on the side.

Arroz Caldo traces its origins to Chinese congee, which was brought to the Philippines by Chinese immigrants. Over time, Filipinos added their own twist to the dish, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to create a uniquely Filipino comfort food.

This hearty rice porridge has become a staple during cold weather, family gatherings, and even as a remedy for colds and flu. Its warm and comforting qualities make it a favorite among Filipinos of all ages

My Arroz Caldo craze:

Growing up, arroz caldo was a regular feature on our dinner table during the cooler months. I remember my grandmother's secret recipe, passed down through generations, which always brought comfort and warmth to our family gatherings.

One chilly evening, as the rain poured outside, my family huddled around the dining table, bowls of steaming arroz caldo in hand. As we shared stories and laughter, I realized that food has a magical way of bringing people together, even on the coldest of nights.

As the cold season settles in, Filipino comfort foods like arroz caldo offer more than just warmth; they bring a sense of home and togetherness to our tables. Whether enjoyed with family or savored alone, these dishes remind us of the simple joys of life and the comfort found in a delicious meal.

So, why not treat yourself to a bowl of arroz caldo or explore other Filipino comfort foods this cold season? From the rich flavors of sinigang to the comforting embrace of champorado, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

As you embark on your culinary journey, remember to savor each bite and cherish the moments shared with loved ones. After all, in the heart of every Filipino dish lies a story of warmth, love, and tradition.

So go ahead, embrace the cold season with open arms and a steaming bowl of comfort. Happy cooking, and may your days be filled with warmth and joy!