Filipino Christmas Food Ideas for a Tasty Holiday
Did you know that Filipinos celebrate Christmas for the longest time, starting as early as September? Knowing this, I got curious about their holiday cuisine and started trying some of them — and well, they did not disappoint!
Now, if you’re planning to have a Filipino Christmas food menu this holiday season, I’ve prepared this list just for you! From classic Filipino appetizers and traditional main dishes to sweet desserts, it’s all here!
Filipino Macaroni Salad
Let’s start with this traditional macaroni salad! I really love how the sweet pineapple and raisins blend with the cheese and chicken. It’s perfect as an appetizer or side dish for your Christmas menu, and you can even skip the chicken and add more fruit for a sweeter twist!
Filipino Spring Rolls (Lumpiang Shanghai)
Of course, I can’t forget about one of the most classic Filipino finger foods—this spring roll or lumpiang shanghai is a perfect and light bite for your menu! The crunchy wrapper, filled with savory pork, carrots, and onions, perfectly matches the sweet and spicy dipping sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!
Pork Siomai Recipe
Another usual Filipino appetizer that you’ll likely find on celebration tables is this pork siomai! I love how easy it is to make, using pork with a hint of shrimp and vegetables, all bound together with egg. You can steam or fry it—both ways are delicious!
Filipino Barbecues
Barbecues are a staple too, especially during Noche Buenas! The flavor of Filipino barbecues is just something else—the tender pork, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, is simply irresistible. The sarsa adds that extra kick and makes it hard to stop at just one skewer!
Filipino Spaghetti
Filipino spaghetti is something that will always be served during the Christmas holidays. This version is dominantly sweet, with a rich tomato flavor and a hint of savory meatiness that makes it a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a must-have at any holiday gathering!
Beef Caldereta
Moving on to the main dish! Let’s start with beef caldereta, packed with rich, savory flavors and hearty chunks of beef, potatoes, and bell peppers—it’s best served with rice too! This classic dish is perfect for festive occasions and family gatherings.
Chicken Cordon Bleu
This chicken cordon bleu is one of my favorites! I love the crispy exterior paired with the delicious combination of chicken, ham, and melted cheese inside. The rich sauce is a game-changer that really enhances its taste by a mile!
Filipino Lechon Kawali
One of the top choices when it comes to main dishes is this Filipino lechon kawali! You know I love crunchy textures, and this crispy fried pork belly definitely hits the spot. Serve it hot with your favorite sauce for a truly satisfying meal!
Filipino-Style Pineapple Glazed Ham
This Filipino-style pineapple-glazed ham is one of the main symbols of Filipino Noche Buena! It truly is the star of the night, with its juicy, flavorful meat and the sweet, tangy glaze making it irresistibly delicious. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a memorable Christmas holiday feast!
Classic Pork Adobo
Last but not least for the main dish list is this classic pork adobo! What I love about it is that, aside from its delicious flavor, you can choose your meat—whether it’s pork, beef, or chicken. It’s a versatile dish that’s always a hit!
Filipino Rice Cake (Bibingka)
Yay, moving on to desserts! I absolutely love rice cakes, and this one has that warm and comforting flavor that’s perfect for the holidays. Topped with savory ingredients, it’s a delightful treat that really captures the festive spirit of Christmas!
Filipino Purple Rice Cake (Puto Bumbong)
This is probably the most classic Filipino Christmas dessert! Just look at that vibrant pop of color—it’s not only festive but also incredibly delicious. Steamed to perfection and topped with butter, grated coconut, and muscovado sugar, it’s a treat that truly captures the holiday spirit.
Filipino Purple Yam Jam (Ube Halaya)
I’m a big fan of purple yams and can’t get enough of them, so this simple yet delicious purple yam jam is a perfect dessert choice! It’s vibrantly purple, sweet, and creamy, making it not only festive but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, making it from scratch means it’s even better than store-bought!
Cathedral Window Jelly
This is the most festive dessert ever! Just look at that colorful design—it practically screams Christmas! It tastes like classic jelly but even better, with a combination of vibrant flavors that’s simply irresistible.
Filipino Fruit Salad
Last but definitely not least is this traditional Filipino fruit salad. I always enjoy any type of fruit salad, and this one is a top choice for dessert with its heavenly, sweet, and creamy sauce. It’s the perfect way to end any meal and always brings a touch of sweetness!
Lots of thanks to the original creators of these amazing appetizer, main dish, and dessert recipes!