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The Yadea C16 EV and the Power of Electronic Vehicles

Living in a small town, our primary mode of transportation has always been tricycles. I have always worried about the cost and reliability of public transportation for our daily commute to school and the market. The expenses can quickly add up and the dependability of these tricycles was always a concern. That’s why I finally took the step to purchase the Yadea C16, a three-wheeled electric vehicle (EV) as our family’s service vehicle. The decision has proven to be beneficial for us, significantly improving our daily lives and easing my worries about transportation costs and reliability.

First of all, let’s talk about the cost savings. I am always looking for ways to cut expenses and save money for my family. Before we got the C16, we were spending a lot of our budget on transportation costs. But now that we have this reliable and efficient EV, we have noticed a significant decrease of more than 50 percent in our transportation expenses. Not only is it saving us money on gas, but also on maintenance costs. The Yadea C16 is known for its low maintenance needs, making it an affordable option in the long run.

But it’s not just about the cost savings – it’s also about being environmentally friendly. As our world becomes increasingly affected by climate change, it’s more important than ever to make conscious decisions about our carbon footprint. The Yadea C16 is an electric vehicle, meaning it runs on electricity rather than fossil fuels like gasoline or diesel. This not only reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, but it also helps to decrease our dependence on non-renewable resources. By choosing an EV like the Yadea C16, we are doing our part in preserving the environment for future generations.

One of the main reasons we chose the Yadea C16 among other electric vehicles is because of its durability. We wanted a vehicle that we could rely on for a long time, and the C16 exceeded our expectations. With its high-quality design and finish, it looks and feels like a premium vehicle. We were particularly impressed by the riding experience – the built-in suspension makes it incredibly comfortable, even on bumpy roads. We did a 30 km test drive and were pleased with how well it performed uphill and downhill. And thanks to its self-charging feature, the battery lasted well throughout our trip.

Speaking of the battery the Yadea C16 boasts an impressive TTFAR energy recycle system graphene battery. This advanced battery not only has a long lifespan, but also utilizes downhill drives to self-charge, making it a highly efficient choice for environmentally-conscious consumers. Its use of graphene technology ensures a more sustainable and eco-friendly option for powering the vehicle.

Of course, like any vehicle, there are some cons to consider when choosing the Yadea C16. One potential drawback is that getting into the driver’s seat may be a bit tricky for those on the larger side. It’s also not the fastest vehicle out there, so if you’re looking for a speed demon, this may not be the best option. However, for city driving, school runs, or trips to the market, it is more than sufficient. It’s also worth noting that the braking system uses drum brakes instead of disc brakes, so be sure to have enough clearance when braking. But overall, these are minor issues compared to the numerous benefits of owning an electric vehicle like the Yadea C16.

I highly recommend considering the Yadea C16 as your next EV purchase. It has definitely met and exceeded our expectations in terms of cost savings, reliability, and environmental impact. I am proud to say that we have made the right choice in choosing this brand among other vehicles that are 50 percent cheaper. So why not join the electric vehicle revolution and make a positive impact on both your wallet and the environment? I am sure you won’t regret it

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The Samgyup 31 Premium Grill: Food Review

It’s Friday and it’s payday, a perfect combination for a great day! But today, it’s not just any ordinary Friday. It’s also the last day of the kids’ 1st quarter exam. As a treat for their hard work, we decided to go out and have a nice dinner outside. And what better way to celebrate than to try out The Samgyup 31 Premium Grill, a Korean restaurant.

Korean cuisine has been gaining popularity in the Philippines in recent years, thanks to the influence of Korean telenovelas and movies. The love for Korean fashion and culture has extended to their food, and it’s not hard to see why. Korean food is not only delicious but also visually appealing. So, we were excited to try out The Samgyup 31 Premium Grill, which specializes in grilled pork, chicken, and beef, along with delectable side dishes and main courses.

As soon as we entered the restaurant, we were greeted with a warm and cozy ambiance, perfect for a relaxing dinner with family and friends. The highlight of the restaurant is its unique concept – customers get to grill their own meat at their table. This adds an interactive element to the dining experience and makes it more enjoyable.

We opted for their unlimited samgyeupsal at the price of P639/person, which also includes unlimited Angus beef, pork, chicken, side dishes, rice, and main courses. For just about $11 or $12/person, we were able to enjoy a variety of mouth-watering dishes – a great value for our money. There is also a cheaper option at P589/person (about a dollar difference) that excludes Angus beef but still offers unlimited servings of pork and chicken. By the way, drinks are charged separately.

We were impressed by the variety of side dishes offered – from kimchi to pickled radish to salads to stir-fried eggplants – all served in small portions, perfect for sampling. Each dish had its distinct flavor, and we couldn’t help but go for seconds, and even thirds.

Next came the main attraction – the meat! We were given a two-hour time limit for the unlimited servings, and leftovers were charged, so we made sure to pace ourselves. We tried different cuts of pork, chicken, and beef, all marinated in flavorful sauces and spices. The meat was fresh, tender, and perfectly grilled to our liking. My son, who is a meat lover, was in heaven.

Aside from the grilled meats, we also ordered kimbap (Korean sushi), Tteokbokki, Mandu, and shrimp tempura to add more variety to our meal. We were impressed by the quality and taste of every dish we tried. And since we didn’t want to get too full with carbs, we made sure to balance it out with more meats and veggies.

Aside from the delicious food, what made our dining experience at The Samgyup Premium Grill even more enjoyable was the opportunity to bond with each other. As we were grilling our meat and enjoying our meal, we were also able to talk and had a great time chatting. It was a great bonding activity for us as a family.

As our two-hour time limit was almost up, we made sure to eat as much as we could without wasting any food. We were satisfied with our dining experience at The Samgyup Premium Grill – from the food to the service to the ambiance. It was definitely worth every penny.

MY RATING

My personal rating of this restaurant is 9/10. The food was undeniably good. The service was also great, with attentive and friendly staff. However, there is one area that I feel the restaurant could improve upon, and that is efficiency. While the service staff were proactive in ensuring our needs were met, I noticed that they had to roam around to check on customers and take additional orders. I believe that installing buzzers on tables would be a more efficient approach, allowing servers to know when customers need them without unnecessary back and forth. Despite this very minor inconvenience, the prices were reasonable for the amount and quality of food we received. With a bill of only P2,915 or about $53 for four people, I would highly recommend this restaurant to others.

Overall, our visit to The Samgyup Premium Grill was a delightful experience. We were able to enjoy delicious Korean food while bonding with each other. It’s not just a restaurant, but it’s also a place where memories are made. So if you’re looking for a new dining experience or simply want to indulge in some mouth-watering Korean dishes, I highly recommend visiting The Samgyup Premium Grill. You won’t be disappointed.

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Modern Shang-Chinese Cuisine: Food Review

This weekend, my husband and I decided to try out Modern Shang or Modern Shanghai, a fairly new restaurant serving authentic Chinese cuisine. Located inside a mall, the restaurant’s tables and chairs spilled out into the walking space, making it seem like it was intentionally designed to attract passing mall goers. I was initially hesitant to dine there, as the setup and staff gave off a fine dining vibe, but my husband’s persistence paid off. The experience turned out to be a good one – the food was delicious and the service impeccable. For those interested in trying out this restaurant, their website and locations, click HERE

Disclaimer: I am not a food expert or a culinary school graduate, so don’t expect any technical reviews from me. All I know is how to eat and appreciate good food, so let’s dig in!

WHAT WE ORDERED

Yang Chow Fried Rice
Hunan Style Beef
Xiao Long Bao (their signature dish)
Crispy Fried Noodles
Shanghai Lily – drinks with lychee, honey and mint leaves

AMBIANCE

The ambiance of the restaurant is quite an interesting experience. As you take a seat at a table, you may feel like you are in a big open hall, with an indoor al fresco dining feel. On a busy day, the crowded mall adds to this sensation. However, as you look around, you may notice that the atmosphere is quite different. With the presence of an expensive casual Italian restaurant right beside your own, complete with the same table and chair set up, the ambiance takes on a more upscale feel. Despite being in a busy mall, the ambiance gives off a fine dining on a street resto vibe that is both unique and alluring. The combination of these elements creates an inviting environment that is perfect for enjoying a delicious meal while still being immersed in the energy of a mall setting.

SERVICE

The service at the restaurant was exceptional. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted warmly and the staff made sure we were comfortable. Complimentary tea and kropek or prawn crackers were served, which was a refreshing start to our dining experience. Our order was also served in a timely manner, although it’s hard to say for certain as the restaurant was not busy at the time. However, based on how we were treated and served, I would easily give the service an A+. We arrived around 4 pm and there were hardly any other customers, yet the staff still maintained a high level of attentiveness. Overall, the service at this restaurant was top-notch and definitely added to our enjoyable dining experience.

AMOUNT OF SERVING

The amount of serving at the restaurant we went to was quite surprising. My husband ordered a small bowl of yang chow rice, but it came overflowing and could have easily fed two small people. Similarly, the portion of Hunan Style Beef was also quite generous and could have been shared between two people. The crispy fried noodles were a good size for 2-3 people to share. However, the Xiao Long Bao and Shanghai Lily drinks were served in just the right amount. Despite our excitement, we ended up taking some of our order home as we couldn’t finish it all.

TASTE

I personally ordered their signature dish, Xiao Long Bao, and their best seller, Crispy Fried Noodles. I had never tried Xiao Long Bao before and I was excited to finally taste it after hearing so much about it. The dish did not disappoint, with its delicious broth and taste of ginger. However, I was disappointed that it was not served piping hot as it is supposed to be. This affected the overall taste of the dish. Similarly, the crispy fried noodles were flavorful but lacked heat as they were not served hot enough. Despite this, the shrimp and squid were cooked to perfection and the blend of ingredients was spot on. I could detect the subtle sweetness from the sauce, making the dish enjoyable. The Han So Beef had also a unique sweetness to it, a typical Chinese stir-fried cooking style. However, the Yang Chow did not stand out in comparison to other Chinese restaurants. My personal favorite was the Shanghai Lily drink, with its refreshing combination of lychee, honey, and mint. Overall, while the dishes were tasty, the lack of proper serving temperature affected the ultimate taste experience.

PRICE

In the case of this particular place, the price is reasonable and reflects the quality of both the location and the food. With all orders amounting to P1,525.76 or about $30. Considering the overall dining experience, it is deemed acceptable

RATING:7/10

Myself, My Best Friend

I want to share with you a personal experience that has greatly impacted my life and has taught me a valuable lesson. I have always struggled with my self-esteem, especially during my teenage years. The constant battle with my skin condition, skin asthma, had left me feeling insecure and conscious about myself.

I remember envying other teenagers who could confidently wear shorts and skirts without worrying about their appearance. I longed to express myself through fashion, but my skin condition held me back. As a result, I isolated myself from the crowd and spent most of my time alone.

During these alone moments, I found myself talking out loud to myself and crying. It may seem strange to some, but for me, it was therapeutic. It was during these self-conversations that I found my inner strength and resilience. I have always considered myself as my own best friend, but it wasn’t until then that I truly understood the meaning behind it.

Talking to myself allowed me to release all my pent-up emotions and feelings. It was a way for me to acknowledge and confront my insecurities, fears, and doubts. And every time I did so, I felt a sense of relief and clarity. It was as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

But it wasn’t just about venting out my problems; it was also about finding solutions. As I talked through my issues with myself, I could come up with different perspectives and ideas on how to handle them. It helped me think more clearly and find ways to overcome the challenges I faced.

And the best part? My inner self never judged me or criticized me for my flaws or mistakes. It was always there for me, providing comfort and understanding. It made me realize that sometimes, we need to be our own best friend before we can truly be a good friend to others.

In today’s world, we are constantly surrounded by people, whether in person or through social media. We tend to seek validation and acceptance from others, forgetting to give ourselves the love and care we deserve. We often rely on others to make us feel good about ourselves, but what happens when they are not around? That’s where the importance of self-talk comes in.

Talking to yourself is not a sign of madness or loneliness, as some may perceive it to be. It is an essential tool for self-reflection and self-discovery. It allows us to understand ourselves better and work on our weaknesses while also appreciating our strengths.

I encourage you to take some time for yourself every day and have a conversation with your inner self. Talk about your day, your thoughts, your fears, and your dreams. Acknowledge and accept your imperfections and celebrate your achievements. Love yourself as your own best friend.

And when you face challenges and struggles in life, remember that you have a strong and resilient friend within you who will always be there to listen and guide you through them.

I want to leave you with this quote by the famous poet Rupi Kaur: “You are your own soulmate. You complete you.” So, talk to yourself, listen to yourself, and love yourself. Trust me; it will make all the difference in your life.

The Slippers of Pepe and the Lessons of Moving On

While helping my daughter with her assignment, I came across a meaningful and inspiring story. The anecdote, “Tsinelas ni Pepe” or “The Slippers of Pepe,” about our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, not only taught her about his life, but also imparted valuable lessons that resonate with everyone.

In the story, the young boy Jose accidentally lost one of his slippers while on a boat ride with his older brother. The slipper fell into the river and was quickly swept away, leaving Jose feeling worried about his mother’s possible anger. However, instead of holding onto the remaining slipper, Jose made the decision to throw it into the river as well while praying for someone else to find and use them together. This story struck a chord with me and I couldn’t help but think about how it relates to relationships and moving on.

We’ve all been through heartbreaks and breakups, whether in a romantic relationship, a close friendship, or with an object that we hold dear. We’ve all experienced that feeling of someone or something slipping through our fingers, and no matter how much we try, we can’t hold onto them. But just like Jose’s slippers, sometimes things are meant to go for a greater purpose. And that’s where the four S’s come into play – Sacrifice, Selflessness, Strength, and Surrender.

SACRIFICE – Jose sacrifices his remaining slipper in the hopes that someone else would find and use both of them. Similarly, in relationships, there are times when we have to make sacrifices for the person we love. It may be compromising on our own desires or putting their needs before our own. But what happens when things don’t work out and we have to let go?

SELFLESSNESS – When a relationship comes to an end, it can be easy to get caught up in our own pain and resentment. But just like Jose, we must remember to think about the other person and their happiness as well. It may seem difficult at first, but being selfless and letting go with grace can bring a sense of peace and closure.

STRENGTH – It takes a great deal of strength to let go of something or someone that once meant so much to us. It’s not easy to say goodbye to someone who has been a big part of our life. We may feel weak and vulnerable, but it is important to remember that letting go takes courage and inner strength.

But how do we find this strength? How do we move on from a relationship that has ended?

Here are some tips in moving on based on the story of “Tsinelas ni Pepe”:

Acceptance: Just like Jose accepted that he could not retrieve his lost slipper, we must also accept that the relationship has come to an end. It may be a difficult and painful realization, but it is necessary for us to move on.
Letting go: Once we have accepted the situation, it is important to let go of any bitterness or resentment towards the other person. Holding onto negative feelings will only prolong our healing process. Instead, try to remember the good times and cherish the memories.
Focus on the present: It’s natural to dwell on the past and what could have been, but it’s important to focus on the present and look towards the future. Take this opportunity to rediscover yourself and pursue your own passions and interests.
Pray for the best: Just like Jose prayed for someone else to find and use his slippers, we can pray for the best for our past partner and their future. This can help us find closure and move on with a positive mindset.
Seek support: Moving on from a relationship can be tough, so don’t be afraid to seek support from your loved ones. Talk to them about your feelings and allow yourself to grieve. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who will help you through this tough time.
Stay positive: Remember that everything happens for a reason and that this experience will only make you stronger. Stay positive and have faith that better things are yet to come.

SURRENDER – One more word that completes the lesson from this story is “surrender”. Sometimes, no matter how much we try or how badly we want something, it may not work out in our favor. In these situations, it’s important to surrender to the greater plan of the universe and trust that everything happens for a reason.

The story of “Tsinelas ni Pepe” teaches us valuable lessons about sacrifice, selflessness, strength, and surrender when it comes to relationships and letting go. It may be a difficult process, but with acceptance, forgiveness, and support, we can move on and find happiness once again. So the next time life throws a curveball and you find yourself in a similar situation, remember the story of Pepe’s slippers and the lessons it holds.

Warm Up with Beef Bulalo!

Rainy days can bring relief to the scorching heat, but it can also be a hindrance to our daily activities. But one thing is for sure, rainy days call for something warm and comforting to soothe our souls. And what better way to enjoy the weather than with a steaming bowl of bulalo?

Bulalo is a popular Filipino soup dish that is commonly enjoyed during rainy days. It is made from beef shanks or bone marrow, vegetables, and seasonings that come together to create a flavorful and hearty soup. So, let’s get our aprons on and prepare ourselves for some cooking.

Ingredients:

1 kilo beef shank
1 whole cabbage
2 whole corn, cut into 3-4 pieces
3 medium-sized potatoes
1/4 baguio beans
1 beef cube
Whole pepper
1 big white onion
1 head of garlic
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large pot, boil the beef shank in one liter of water together with garlic, onion, and whole pepper. This will give the broth a rich and flavorful base.
Continue boiling until the beef is tender. This may take around 1 to 2 hours depending on the tenderness of the meat.
Once the beef is tender, add in the corn, potatoes, and beef cube. These ingredients will add more depth of flavor to the broth.
Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes until the potatoes and corn are almost cooked.
Lastly, add in the baguio beans and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.

And there you have it, a simple and delicious bulalo soup that will surely warm you up on a rainy day. Serve it piping hot with a side of steamed rice and you have the perfect comfort food meal.

But what makes bulalo such a well-loved dish? It’s not just the warm and comforting feeling it brings, but also the combination of flavors and textures. The tender beef shank, the sweetness of the corn and carrots, the creaminess of the potatoes, and the crunchiness of the baguio beans all come together to create a perfect balance of flavors.

Aside from its taste, bulalo also has numerous health benefits. The beef shank used in this dish is a great source of protein, iron, and other essential nutrients. It also contains gelatin which is known to improve joint health and digestion. The vegetables added in this dish also provide vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for our overall health.

With the typhoon season upon us again, it’s the perfect time to whip up a pot of bulalo and enjoy the weather from the comfort of our homes. It’s a simple and delicious dish that will surely warm your heart and soul.

A Mother’s Dilemma – Letting Go of My Helicopter Parenting Ways

Being a mother is one of the toughest and most rewarding jobs in the world. From the moment we hold our little bundles of joy in our arms, we are filled with love and an overwhelming sense of responsibility. We want to do everything in our power to protect and guide our children as they grow up. But what happens when our well-meaning efforts to be the best parent possible end up causing a rift in our relationship with our child?

This is a dilemma that I, as a mother, am currently facing. My 14-year-old son and I had a disagreement today over something trivial. He had come home from school, claiming there was no class. When I asked if he had confirmed it with his teacher, he raised his voice and accused me of being a helicopter mom and not trusting him. He didn’t let me speak and continued to argue loudly. After a heated conversation, I took some time to calm down, reflect and ponder over the situation.

As I sit here now, thinking about the events of today, my heart is heavy with conflicting emotions. On one hand, I am hurt that my son spoke to me disrespectfully and accused me of not trusting him. But on the other hand, I can’t help but wonder if I may have played a role in provoking him with my interrogating questions and hurtful words said out of anger.

You see, when I was pregnant with my son, I made the decision to work from home so I could take care of him. However, he was constantly getting sick and we made numerous trips to the ER. It turns out, he has allergies, a weak immune system, poor eyesight and is accident-prone. As a result, I have always been anxious and cautious when it comes to his well-being. We homeschooled him until grade 8 because of his health issues but he wanted to go back to regular school. Now, as a mother of a teenager, I am faced with a new chapter in our lives.

I have always been a helicopter mom – constantly hovering over my child, trying to protect him from any harm and making decisions for him. But now that he is growing up and becoming more independent, I am struggling to let go of my helicopter parenting ways. This disagreement with my son has made me realize that it’s time for him to learn how to fly on his own and for me to adjust to this new phase of his life as a teenager.

As a mother, it breaks my heart to see my son talk back to me in a disrespectful tone. It feels like a stab to my heart and I wish he didn’t feel the need to reason out in such a manner. But I also understand that as he grows up, he will have his own opinions and may not always agree with me. And that’s okay. It’s part of the process of him becoming his own person.

Reflecting on the situation, I now understand that my strict and overprotective parenting style may have contributed to my son’s outburst. I have always tried to assert my authority and protect my son as a helicopter mom. However, I realize now that I need to loosen the reins and give him more space to make his own decisions and learn from his mistakes.

To truly support his growth, I must offer support, guidance, and encouragement. These are crucial for helping him independently interact with the world and gain valuable insights from new experiences.

Support: Be there when he needs help, but resist the urge to solve problems for him. This shows trust in his abilities.
Guidance: Provide advice when necessary, but allow him to choose his path. Guide him by asking questions that lead him to find his own solutions.
Encouragement: Celebrate his successes and growth, reinforcing his confidence to explore further.

By integrating these principles into my parenting approach, I aim to nurture his independence while still offering a safety net for when he stumbles. This balance is key for fostering a resilient and self-reliant individual.

But this realization is not easy for me. Letting go of my helicopter parenting ways is scary and overwhelming. I am afraid of failing in this new role of being a parent to a teenager. That’s why I am open to advice from other parents who have gone through it successfully. I am willing to read self-help books and seek guidance from experienced parents because I want to do what’s best for my son.

To all the parents who have successfully managed the tricky teenage years, I ask for your wisdom and guidance. How did you let go of your helicopter parenting ways? How did you adapt to your child’s growing independence? Any helpful comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

As for my son and I, we talked things through and apologized to each other. We both acknowledged our mistakes and promised to work on our communication and understanding. It may not be an easy road ahead, but I am determined to be the best mother that my son needs at this stage in his life.

Breaking The Cycle: Filipino Family Dynamics

The recent controversy surrounding a Filipino Gold Olympian and his mother sheds light on the toxic culture of entitlement in Filipino families. As the issue unravels, it is revealed that the mother’s disappointment and hurt towards her son stem from disagreements over money and his relationship choices. This situation has sparked an intense debate among netizens about the ingrained belief that children owe their parents everything, including financial support. But where did this mindset come from? Is it a cultural norm or a misguided belief? In my opinion, this toxic culture is deeply rooted in the traditional Filipino values of filial piety and respect for elders, which have been taken to extreme lengths. It is time for us to examine and challenge these beliefs and strive for healthier parent-child relationships based on mutual respect and understanding.

Firstly, it is important to acknowledge that the Bible teaches us to love and honor our parents. However, it also warns parents not to provoke their children to anger. This means that while children have a moral obligation to love and respect their parents, parents also have a responsibility to nurture and guide their children with love and understanding.

In the case of the Gold Olympian’s mother, it is possible that she may have failed to fulfill her role as a loving and supportive parent while her son was growing up. Perhaps she saw her son’s athletic talents as a means to fulfill her own needs and desires rather than focusing on his well-being as a child. And now that he has achieved success and fame, she feels entitled to reap the benefits and financial rewards.

Secondly, we must remember the universal principle of sowing and reaping. Whatever we plant in our relationships, we will eventually harvest. If parents sow love, understanding, and support towards their children, it will be reciprocated without them having to demand it. On the other hand, if parents sow manipulation, guilt-tripping, and unrealistic expectations on their children, they will eventually reap resentment and distance in their relationship.

Moreover, it is important for parents to recognize that their children do not belong to them. Yes, they came from you and you have raised them with love and care. But children are not possessions that can be controlled and manipulated. They are individuals with their own dreams, goals, and choices. It is not fair for parents to demand their children to fulfill their unmet dreams or responsibilities.

Parents should also learn to be content with the life that their spouse has given them. It is not the responsibility of their children to fill in the gaps or make up for what their spouse couldn’t provide. Children should not feel burdened or guilty for something that they have no control over.

Furthermore, respect should always be present in any parent-child relationship. No matter how old a child is, they are still deserving of respect from their parents. This includes respecting their choices in life, especially when it comes to who they love. Parents should refrain from interfering in their adult child’s relationships or manipulating them into making certain decisions. This only causes strain and resentment in the relationship.

Lastly, parents should also learn to keep private matters within the family and not use their “mom” or “dad” card to gain sympathy from others. Sharing personal issues on social media only adds fuel to the fire and creates unnecessary drama and attention.

Children are individuals who deserve love, support, and respect from their parents. As for the son and his mother’s rift, let us hope that they can resolve their issues and move forward with a healthier and more understanding relationship. And for all parents out there, let us remember that our children are not our property but precious gifts from God. It is our responsibility to nurture and guide them with love and respect, not manipulate and demand from them.

Crispy Pata Recipe: A Filipino Delicacy

Have you ever heard of crispy pata? If you haven’t, then you’re missing out on one of the most iconic dishes in Filipino cuisine. Crispy pata is a popular dish in the Philippines, known for its crispy and flavorful pork hock. It is a must-try for anyone who wants to experience the authentic taste of Filipino food.

Now, before we get into the recipe, let’s first understand what “pata” is. Pata is a Spanish word that means leg or hind leg. In terms of food, it refers to the pork hock, which is the lower part of the pig’s leg. This part of the pig’s body is rich in collagen, making it perfect for creating a gelatinous texture when cooked.

Crispy pata is believed to have been invented by Rodolfo Ongpauco in the 1950s. He was a restaurateur in Manila, Philippines, who created the dish as a way to utilize leftover pork knuckles from making hamonado, another Filipino dish. His creation became popular and is now a staple in Filipino cuisine.

Now that we know a little bit about crispy pata let’s move on to the recipe. My ideal crispy pata should be super crispy on the outside but soft and a little moist on the inside with a gelatinous texture. Most of the time, when I order crispy pata from restaurants, it turns out to be hard and dry on the inside. That’s why I prefer to make it at home using this recipe that I will be sharing with you today.

Ingredients
Main Dish:
1 whole pork hock (pata)
1 whole bulb of garlic, peeled
1 whole onion, peeled
3-4 large bay leaves
1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
Salt, to taste
Oil, for deep frying

Dipping Sauce:
Small diced onions
Small diced tomatoes
White vinegar
Small chilies, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Knorr liquid seasoning

The first step is to boil the pork hock until it becomes tender together with garlic, onion, pepper corn, and laurel leaves to the water to infuse more flavor into the meat. Once the pork hock is tender, take it out and let it cool down for a bit. It’s essential to let it cool down before frying to achieve that crispy texture on the outside.

After the pork hock has cooled down, it’s time to airfry it. Set your airfryer to 180 degrees and let it cook for about 45 minutes. This step helps to remove excess moisture from the pork hock, making it easier to achieve that crispy texture.

Once you have airfried the pork hock and let it cool, it’s time to deep fry it. Heat up some oil in a deep frying pan and carefully put in the airfried pork hock. Fry until it turns golden brown and crispy on the outside. This step may take a bit longer than just frying raw pork because of the airfrying process, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Now that we have our perfectly crispy pata, we cannot forget about the dipping sauce. In my opinion, the dipping sauce is what elevates this dish to a whole new level. It’s like a marriage of flavors, where one could not stand out without the other.

To make the dipping sauce, mix small diced onions, small diced tomatoes, white vinegar, small chilies, salt, pepper, and Knorr liquid seasoning. Mix all these ingredients together in a bowl and adjust the amounts according to your liking. If you want more heat, add more chilies. If you prefer it more sour, add more vinegar.

And there you have it! Your very own homemade crispy pata with a delicious dipping sauce. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you will never want to order crispy pata from restaurants again. It’s easy to make, and the end result is a dish that will impress your taste buds and your loved ones.

Sinigang na Salmon Belly

As the Philippines transitions from months of intense heat to the cooler, rainy season, there is no better way to welcome the change in weather than with a comforting and hearty meal. Today, I am excited to share with you a recipe that is perfect for this season – Sinigang. But this is no ordinary sinigang, as I will be using a special ingredient – salmon belly.

Traditionally, sinigang is made with shrimp or native fish, but I have recently discovered that using salmon belly as the main protein ingredient can elevate this dish to another level of deliciousness.

Salmon is not native to the Philippines, and this makes it quite expensive. However, I have found a way to enjoy this rich and flavorful fish in a budget-friendly manner. There is a supermarket in my area that sells salmon belly scraps at a lower price, making it accessible to those who want to try cooking with this imported fish.

For those who are not familiar with this dish, sinigang is a soup-based dish that has a tangy and savory taste. The sourness comes from tamarind, which is usually used as a souring agent in Filipino dishes. Sinigang mix, which is readily available in local stores, is made of tamarind and other spices that add depth to the flavor profile of the dish.

Ingredients:

1/2 kilo salmon belly
4 pcs small tomatoes, cut into halves
2 large red onions, cut into halves
1 medium-sized radish, cut into large chunks
3 bunches of bok choy
1 eggplant, sliced into 1 to 1-1/2 inch pieces
2-3 bulbs of scallion
1 tablespoon fish sauce (patis)
Salt and pepper
1 small pack or 1 tbsp sinigang/tamarind mix

To start off my salmon belly sinigang recipe, I first slightly cook the fish by frying it. This step not only removes the fishy odor but also adds a nice texture to the salmon belly. Then, I simmer tomatoes, radish, and red onions in a pot of water for about 5 minutes to create the base of the soup. Adding these vegetables also adds more nutrients and flavors to the dish.

Next comes the star ingredient – the salmon belly and sliced eggplant. I let them cook for another 5 minutes until they are tender and fully cooked. At this point, I add a tablespoon of fish sauce (patis) for some savory notes and the sinigang mix for the sourness. The amount of sinigang mix can be adjusted according to your preference, but I personally like mine on the more sour side.

After another 3 minutes of simmering, I add bokchoy and scallions to the pot. These vegetables add a fresh and crunchy element to the dish. It is important to not cover the pot at this point to keep the vibrant green color of the bokchoy leaves. Covering it will cause the leaves to turn brown.

And just like that, my salmon belly sinigang is done! I like to serve it with a steaming bowl of rice, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a soup. The salmon belly adds a rich and buttery flavor to the dish, making it a perfect complement to the tangy and savory broth. The vegetables also add a nice balance of textures and flavors, making each spoonful a burst of deliciousness in your mouth.

What I love about this dish is that it combines two different cultures – the imported salmon from Western countries and the traditional Filipino sinigang mix. It is a fusion of flavors that truly represents the diverse and vibrant food culture in the Philippines. And even though salmon is not native to our country, this dish proves that it can still be incorporated into our cuisine in a delicious and budget-friendly way.

In addition to its amazing taste, salmon belly sinigang also has numerous health benefits. Salmon is known for its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain function and heart health. The vegetables in the dish also provide a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded and nutritious meal.

Sinigang na salmon belly is a must-try dish for all food lovers out there. It is a unique twist on a classic Filipino dish that will surely satisfy your taste buds. So next time you see those affordable salmon belly scraps at the supermarket, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and experience the perfect balance of flavors in every spoonful. Happy cooking!