Ube halaya, also known as “haleyang ube” in Tagalog, is basically ube jam. While you can typically find fresh ube halaya at your local Seafood City, you can also find it in preserved jars in the halo halo aisle. I prefer making my own ube jam from scratch or using fresh ube halaya from Seafood City (in the fridged aisle) because it tastes better, whereas the jarred ube jam includes preservatives like citric acid that might change the
Continue Reading→
Extra crispy, crushed potatoes with smooth and buttery centers that are dripping with garlic and herb infused oil – these smashed potatoes are easy to make and will make it on your favorite sides list. Are you tired of the same old mashed potatoes or even plain roasted potatoes? Check out their leveled-up cousin, the smashed potato. This is my
Continue Reading→
Takoyaki is a Japanese term for “octopus grilled/fried,” and they are a very popular yatai (or mobile street food) snack. These lightly fried octopus balls have a crisp outer shell with a soft and moist center filled with pieces of octopus, pickled ginger, green onions, and crunchy tenkasu (or tempura pieces). These fried octopus balls were first popularized by a man named Tomekichi Endo from Osaka, Japan in the
Continue Reading→
A Filipino celebration isn’t complete without dessert, and one of the most famous cakes is ube cake from Red Ribbon or Goldilocks. This cake typically comes in a traditional round, sheet cake, or roll cake variation, but it’s always moist, nutty, and delicious. Some cakes even include macapuno (coconut string jam)—an absolutely welcome partner in crime with any ube dessert. Even though I’ve grown up eating all things ube, including this tasty
Continue Reading→
These ultra-soft and light Hokkaido milk bread rolls (also known as Japanese milk bread) feel like you’re eating clouds for breakfast! If you love the smell of fresh baked, sweet bread just as it’s coming out of the oven, then this bread is for you. This Hokkaido milk bread recipe will teach you some tips and tricks, like making a tangzhong starter,
Continue Reading→
This spicy, vinegary smashed Chinese cucumber salad recipe is a great side and even something I like snacking on by itself. It’s delicate but seasoned just enough to keep you coming back for more. I’ve had this dish at some of my favorite restaurants, like A&J or Din Tai Fung, and it’s my favorite to eat with xiao long bao,
Continue Reading→
From the amazing pandan and coconut aroma, the super crispy exterior and chewy interior, to the sound each bite you take makes, these vegan waffles will hit you from all the right angles, and leave you reaching for another. I love making these Vietnamese pandan waffles, and they are amazing, but also wanted a version to share with my vegan
Continue Reading→
These creamy and caramelized roasted sweet potatoes are a staple in Japanese cuisine and even easier to make at home. Satsuma-imo (Japanese sweet potatoes) are rich in flavor, but also have plenty of health benefits. I grew up with my grandma cooking sweet potatoes for breakfast and this recipe will show you how to get ultra-soft and nutty roasted sweet potatoes
Continue Reading→
Juicy and sweet corn on the cob is now easier to make during the week than ever and you don’t even need to boil a pot of water! While I have fond memories of my mom boiling corn in a large pot of water during my childhood, I’ve found that microwaving corn is a much faster way to get to
Continue Reading→
Tender, sweet, and rich slices of pork belly and shoulder with a side of savory garlic fried rice and a fried egg—this Filipino pork tocino recipe will satisfy the wildest breakfast cravings you are having. After trying many, many different pork tocino recipes from local Filipino restaurants, fast food places, home recipes, and even trekking to the Philippines, I’ve found an easy and customizable
Continue Reading→
Ultra rich and creamy custard baked in a steamy bath topped with a sweet caramel sauce–leche flan is a Filipino party favorite. This is a Filipino version of flan that is popular to serve during parties. Growing up, one of my favorite aunts was known for her homemade leche flan. We always waited for her to arrive at a party
Continue Reading→
Sweet and rich meat sauce swirled in al dente pieces of spaghetti and sprinkled with sharp cheddar — this Filipino spaghetti recipe strays from its Italian namesake, but it’s favored in the hearts of many Filipinos around the world. I grew up with Filipino spaghetti and I love it so much that as an adult, I still prefer this sweet
Continue Reading→