Hapagkainan: Filipino traditions around meals

As we approach Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the whole season of family gatherings, I’m feeling more reflective than ever about the meaning of family and the traditions that anchor us as overseas Filipinos. This time of year always brings back memories of my own family, and those cherished meals around a full table that seem to capture the heart of Filipino togetherness. Family gatherings are central in Filipino culture, and if there's one thing that makes them feel complete, it's a shared meal.

In Filipino homes, the dining table isn't just a place to eat; it’s the heartbeat of every gathering. It’s where laughter fills the air, memories are shared, and generations connect. I remember days where we never got up from the dining table, where breakfast turned into lunch and merienda into dinner. From the humblest dish to the grandest feast, meals bring us closer, and in Filipino culture, every gathering holds a meaning, a memory, a shared experience.

Curious about how Filipinos eat? Here's a glimpse into a typical Filipino hapagkainan (dining experience):

Photo by Avel Chuklanov on Unsplash

✨ Forget about cutlery! 🍚🍽️ Many Filipinos still practice kamayan, or eating with hands, a tradition that dates back before colonization. It’s more than a way to eat; it’s an experience that can feel surprisingly grounding and joyful.

✨ Rice is everything. For Filipinos, rice or kanin isn't just a side—it’s the meal’s foundation. Each sandok pairs with a flavorful ulam (viand), like adobo, sinigang, or kare-kare. And when it’s time for a boodle fight, you’ll find everything laid out on banana leaves, transforming the table into a communal, hands-on feast!

✨ Sharing is caring. Whether it’s a freshly cooked dish or leftovers packed up (binalot) to share with neighbors, Filipino culture centers on generosity. Food is meant to be shared, creating a sense of connection and gratitude.

✨ Every meal is a social affair. The food is incredible, but the company is even better. Meals in Filipino homes are a time to gather, laugh, and share stories—a time to be present with loved ones and soak in the moment.

✨ Creative with leftovers. Filipinos waste nothing. Leftovers are treasures, reinvented into delicious dishes the next day, whether it’s fried rice or a hearty soup. Nothing goes to waste, preserving every bit of flavor and every fond memory.

Filipino eating culture is more than just food on a plate; it’s a journey into the heritage, values, and community spirit of the Philippines. Every meal feels like an invitation to gather, connect, and pass down stories—something we hold especially close during the holiday season as overseas Filipinos.

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