Condiments are used to enhance the flavor of any dish. They are used to add an extra layer of flavor to any dishes like fried or grilled. Condiments are sometimes combined with other condiments producing different tastes and aromas.
When we go to the supermarket or grocery store condiments and other dipping sauces are commonly included in the practical Filipino grocery list.Â
In the Philippines, various condiments are utilized to enhance the taste of numerous dishes. Whether you're dipping your fried food or adding flavor to your rice, here are the Top 10 condiments that you need to try in the Philippines once you visit the country.
1. Vinegar
Vinegar is a staple condiment in many Filipino households. It is made from fermented sugarcane or coconut sap and is commonly used as a dipping sauce for fried foods or as a marinade for meat. You can find vinegar in different flavors and varieties across the Philippines.
Here are the common brands of Vinegar that you can purchase in the supermarkets in the Philippines:
- Datu Puti Vinegar - Shopee or Lazada
- Silver Swan Vinegar - Shopee or Lazada
- Marca Piña Vinegar - Shopee or Lazada
2. Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is another common staple condiment in many Filipino dishes. It is a salty, umami-rich sauce made from fermented soybeans that are used in many neighboring Asian countries. Soy sauces are used as a dipping sauce or marinade for meat to add extra taste.
Here are the common brands of Soy Sauce that you can purchase in the supermarkets in the Philippines:
- Silver Swan Soy Sauce - Shopee or Lazada
- Lee Kum Kee Soy Sauce - Shopee or Lazada
- Marca Piña Soy Sauce- Shopee or Lazada
3. Fish Sauce
Made from fermented fish, fish sauce is a strongly-flavored and salty condiment that is frequently used as a seasoning in Filipino cuisine. When using fish sauce as a condiment it must be paired with calamansi and can also add with fresh chili to add heat. Aside from being a condiment, they are commonly used in some Filipino dishes.
Here are the common brands of Fish Sauce that you can purchase in the supermarkets in the Philippines:
- Silver Swan Fish Sauce - Shopee or Lazada
- Datu Puti Fish Sauce - Shopee or Lazada
- Marca Piña Fish Sauce - Shopee or Lazada
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4. Bagoong
Bagoong is a condiment made from fermented fish or shrimp that is commonly used as a dipping sauce or a seasoning in many Filipino dishes. Some varieties of bagoong are also sweetened with sugar or mixed with other ingredients like chili peppers, garlic, and vinegar to enhance their flavor. It is used to add flavor to dishes like kare-kare, a popular Filipino stew made with oxtail and peanut sauce.
Here are the common brands of bagoong that you can purchase in the supermarkets in the Philippines:
- Cabalen Bagoong - Shopee or LazadaÂ
- Barrio Fiesta Bagoong - Shopee or LazadaÂ
- UFC Bagoong - Shopee or LazadaÂ
5. Kalamansi
Kalamansi is a citrus fruit that is commonly used in Filipino cuisine as a condiment. Its juice is used as a souring agent for many dishes and is commonly used in dipping sauces for grilled meats.
6. Banana Ketchup
Did you know that Banana ketchup was invented in the Philippines during World War II? This is due to the shortage of tomato ketchup in the country during that period.
It is made from mashed banana, vinegar, and sugar. They are commonly used in fried chicken and pork as dipping sauce.
Here are the common brands of banana ketchup that you can purchase in the supermarkets in the Philippines:
- UFC Banana Ketchup - Shopee or Lazada
- Papa Banana Ketchup - Shopee or Lazada
- Del monte Banana Ketchup - Shopee or Lazada
7. Atchara
Atchara is a condiment made from pickled papaya that is commonly served as a side dish or used as a topping for grilled meat. It is used to add a tangy flavor to many dishes and is a popular condiment in many Filipino households.
8. Chili Garlic Oil
Chili garlic oil is a condiment made from cooking dried chili peppers and garlic in oil.Â
To make chili garlic oil, dried chili peppers, and minced garlic are sautéed in oil until fragrant and slightly browned. The resulting oil is a deep red color and has a spicy and garlicky flavor.
The level of spiciness can vary depending on the type and amount of chili peppers used, and the other seasonings added to the oil.
9. Lechon Sauce
Lechon sauce is a sweet and tangy sauce made from liver, vinegar, sugar, and spices that is commonly served with roasted pork or lechon. It is used to add flavor to roasted meat and is a popular condiment in many Filipino celebrations.
Here are the common brands of lechon sauce that you can purchase in supermarkets in the Philippines:
10. Chili Garlic Sauce
Chili garlic sauce is made from a combination of crushed chili pepper, vinegar, and sugar. They are easy to make and some households in the Philippines can make this type of condiment. Its versatility makes it a must-have condiment in any Filipino kitchen.
In Summary:
The Philippines has a diverse and flavorful cuisine, and these top 10 condiments are just a small part of it. Whether you're a local or a foreigner, these condiments will surely enhance the flavors of any dish.Â