POES FOODIES March 19, 2024

A Fusion Feast: Filipino Dinner Delights with a Twist

 

Introduction:
Welcome to a culinary adventure where flavors from different corners of the world converge on one dinner table. In this Filipino-inspired feast, we’ll be blending traditional Filipino cuisine with a touch of Korean influence and a dash of creativity. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with Kale Laing, Korean Barbecue Short Ribs, and indulge in the sweet finale of Ube Cheesecake.

 

Kale Laing Recipe
Laing is a beloved Filipino dish originating from the Bicol region, typically made with taro leaves cooked in coconut milk and spices. In this version, we’ll add a healthy twist with kale, adding extra nutrients and a vibrant green color.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups kale leaves, chopped
– 1 cup dried taro leaves (if available)
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced
– 2-3 pieces red chili peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)
– 1 cup shrimp paste (bagoong)
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp paste and cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the kale leaves and dried taro leaves. Stir well.
5. Allow the mixture to simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the leaves are tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt to taste and adjust the spiciness with more chili peppers if desired.
7. Serve hot with jasmine rice.

 

Korean Barbecue Short Ribs Recipe:
Korean barbecue short ribs, or Galbi, are known for their savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors. Let’s infuse this Korean delight into our Filipino dinner for a delightful fusion experience.

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef short ribs
– ½ cup soy sauce
– ¼ cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and green onions to make the marinade.
2. Place the short ribs in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove ribs from marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Ube Cheesecake Recipe:
Ube, or purple yam, is a staple ingredient in Filipino desserts, known for its vibrant purple hue and sweet flavor. Combine it with the creamy goodness of cheesecake for an unforgettable dessert experience.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mashed cooked purple yam (ube)
– Purple food coloring (optional)
– Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press onto the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. In another bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Fold in mashed purple yam until well combined. Add a few drops of purple food coloring if desired for a more vibrant color.
5. Pour the mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the center is almost set. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Serve slices of Ube Cheesecake topped with whipped cream for a delightful end to your fusion feast.

Conclusion:
With this fusion feast, we’ve taken classic Filipino dishes and added a creative twist, resulting in a dinner experience that’s sure to impress. From the hearty Kale Laing to the succulent Korean Barbecue Short Ribs, and finally, the indulgent Ube Cheesecake, every dish on this menu brings together flavors from different cultures for a memorable dining experience. So gather your loved ones, set the table, and enjoy this culinary journey of fusion flavors!