OpenSurface

Curl up and enjoy “minatamis na saging” (sweetened banana), a Filipino dessert made with chopped saba bananas cooked in coconut milk, sugar, and water. Some recipes also add a little salt and pandan leaf or vanilla extract. Other ingredients may be added too, such as sweet potato, sago, or fruits like jackfruit. It is commonly enjoyed as a merienda or comforting home-style treat, especially when served warm or alongside other sweets. It can be eaten on its own or used as an ingredient in other desserts, notably halo-halo.

Curl up and enjoy "minatamis na saging" (sweetened banana), a Filipino dessert made with chopped saba bananas cooked in coconut milk, sugar, and water. Some recipes also add a little salt and pandan leaf or vanilla extract. Other ingredients may be added too, such as sweet potato, sago, or fruits like jackfruit. It is commonly enjoyed as a merienda or comforting home-style treat, especially when served warm or alongside other sweets. It can be eaten on its own or used as an ingredient in other desserts, notably halo-halo.

Sinigang, a Filipino sour and savory broth traditionally cooked with sampalok (tamarind) as a souring agent, can also be made with bayabas (guava), santol (cotton fruit), and pakwan (watermelon), as shown, to provide a light and fresh alternative. It still includes the same vegetables like kangkong (water spinach), okra, talong (eggplant), kamatis (tomatoes), luya (ginger), sibuyas (onions), and proteins such as pork, fish, chicken, or shrimp. Served piping hot and often enjoyed with steaming white rice.

Art direction and photography. Styling by Cathy Tagle

Lunch is served! Savory stir-fry string beans with a hint of sweetness and lots of toasted garlic served with steaming rice is surely a delightful meal. What else could we pair this with?

Art direction and photography. Food styling by Cathy Tagle

We’re not ready to end the mango season yet. The refreshing mango springroll serves as an excellent appetizer to kickstart a delightful meal.

Art direction and photography. Food styling by Cathy Tagle

Mango season has arrived. Treat yourself to a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors with this comforting mango pudding with chia seeds, a great way to wrap up a filling meal.

Art direction and photography. Food styling by Cathy Tagle

Upo Noodle Soup
Upo (or bottle gourd, calabash, white-flowered gourd, long melon) noodle soup is one of the dishes included in a supposed cookbook for persons with special needs, which I shot way back in 2018. I’ll share the rest, which I’ve pre-selected, so it won’t go to digital wasteland.
Art direction and photography for Cathy Tagle, who is also the food stylist