Bohol: A Culinary Adventure in the Heart of the Philippines

Bohol is renowned for its stunning natural attractions, such as the Chocolate Hills, sandy beaches, and adorable tarsiers. Nevertheless, Bohol is a lesser-known treasure trove for food lovers, showcasing a diverse culinary tradition that mirrors its cultural richness and plentiful natural bounty. Exploring the vibrant markets or dining by the sea, Bohol offers a culinary adventure as captivating as its scenery. Let’s uncover why Bohol is a destination not to be missed by food enthusiasts.

Traditional Boholano Cuisine

1. Kalamay
   • Kalamay, one of Bohol’s most famous delicacies, is a sticky, sweet treat made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar. It is commonly packaged in coconut shells and sealed with red crepe paper. The town of Jagna is renowned for its top-notch kalamay production.
2. Peanut Kisses
   • Taking inspiration from the famous Chocolate Hills of the island, Peanut Kisses are crispy, peanut-flavored cookies molded in the likeness of these natural wonders. These bite-sized treats are a popular pasalubong for visitors to bring back home.
3. Ube Kinampay
   • Ube (purple yam) is a staple ingredient in many Filipino desserts, but Bohol is especially famous for its variety known as kinampay. This delightful root vegetable is a key ingredient in a variety of local dishes and desserts, such as ice cream, cakes, and the classic halaya (ube jam).
4. Binagol
   • In Bohol, a unique treat called binagol is made by mixing grated taro root (called talyan locally) with coconut milk, sugar, and egg yolks before baking it in a coconut shell. It’s a rich and flavorful treat that showcases the island’s agricultural produce.

Boholano cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional Filipino flavors with unique local twists. The island’s rich marine life and fertile soil supply a plethora of fresh ingredients that form the basis of its culinary creations.

Fresh seafood and more

Due to its location, Bohol is a paradise for those who enjoy seafood. The waters around the island are rich in diverse marine life, ensuring that fresh seafood is a fundamental part of Boholano cuisine.

1. Grilled and Kinilaw
   • Bohol offers an array of fresh seafood dishes, with grilled fish, squid, and shrimp being some of the most popular. Kinilaw, a Filipino-style ceviche made with raw fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices, is another must-try dish.
2. Sinugba
   • Sinugba is a traditional method of grilling meats and seafood over charcoal, giving the food a smoky flavor that enhances the natural taste of the ingredients. Beachside restaurants and local eateries often serve freshly grilled seafood, perfect for a relaxed meal by the sea.

Dining experiences and local markets

Bohol provides a range of dining options, including casual street food stalls and delightful restaurants that showcase the island’s culinary traditions.

• Bohol Bee Farm (Panglao Island)
  • This farm-to-table restaurant is renowned for its organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. The menu features a range of healthy and delicious dishes, including fresh salads, homemade bread, and their signature honey-based products. The Bohol Bee Farm also offers guided tours, giving visitors a glimpse into their organic farming practices.
• Gerarda’s Family Restaurant (Tagbilaran City)
  • Located in the capital city, Gerarda’s is known for its home-cooked Boholano meals served in a cozy, family-friendly setting. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional dishes like humba (braised pork belly) and crispy pata (deep-fried pork knuckles), providing an excellent opportunity to savor authentic local flavors.
• Tagbilaran City Public Market
  • To experience genuine local living, don’t miss out on a trip to the Tagbilaran City Public Market. You’ll discover a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies there. It’s an excellent place to sample street food and buy ingredients to recreate Boholano dishes at home.

Culinary Festivals

Bohol honors its lively food culture through a range of festivals and events that showcase the island’s diverse culinary legacy.

• Sandugo Festival (July)
  • The Sandugo Festival honors the significant blood compact between Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna in history. Guests can enjoy street dancing, parades, and food fairs during the festivities, giving them the opportunity to taste a variety of local dishes and delicacies.
• Ubi Festival (January)
  • Commemorating the cherished purple yam, the Ubi Festival honors the significance of ube in Boholano culture. This festival showcases cooking demonstrations, competitions, and a wide array of dishes and products crafted from ube.

Bohol is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a culinary wonderland that presents a wide variety of flavors and dishes. Bohol’s culinary landscape showcases a blend of flavors, from sweet treats like kalamay and peanut kisses to the savory essence of grilled seafood, capturing the essence of its cultural heritage and bountiful natural offerings. Whether you’re discovering local markets, dining at farm-to-table restaurants, or immersing yourself in lively festivals, Bohol guarantees a culinary journey that will create lasting memories. So, come and discover the flavors of Bohol, where every meal is a celebration of the island’s bounty and tradition.