Tuyo: The Filipino Comfort Food That Invokes Both Nostalgia and Neighbors’ Wrath

For many Filipinos, there’s nothing quite like the taste of tuyo—the humble dried fish that is as much a comfort food as it is a nostalgic reminder of home. Whether paired with steaming white rice, a side of sliced tomatoes, or dipped in spicy vinegar, tuyo is a simple yet hearty meal that has been a breakfast staple in countless Filipino households for generations.

But despite its beloved status, tuyo comes with a caveat: its pungent aroma. While the rich, salty flavor of the fish is an irresistible treat for those who grew up with it, its smell can be, shall we say, an acquired taste. Cooking tuyo in a condo or apartment is a surefire way to ruffle feathers, much to the chagrin of non-Filipino neighbors who may not be ready for the olfactory onslaught.

Tuyo is a a Comfort Food with Deep Roots

Tuyo is made by salting small fish—usually herring or sardines (and lately I’ve been seeing small scads or galunggung)—and leaving them to dry under the sun. This preservation technique not only enhances the flavor but also makes the fish shelf-stable, allowing families to store tuyo for long periods without refrigeration. Its affordability and convenience have made it a go-to dish for many Filipinos, especially those living in rural areas or coastal communities.

For overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), expats and students, tuyo takes on a different meaning. It’s not just a dish—it’s a connection to home. The distinctive smell of fried tuyo can transport someone right back to their family’s dining table, even if they’re thousands of miles away. For these Filipinos, the inconvenience of a strong aroma is a small price to pay for a bite of nostalgia.

The Smell That Divides

While tuyo is a beloved dish in Filipino culture, it’s no secret that it can be quite… aromatic. To the uninitiated, the smell of frying tuyo can be overwhelming, filling the kitchen and quickly spreading to other parts of a home or apartment. It’s common for Filipinos in shared living spaces abroad to get complaints from neighbors when they dare to fry up some tuyo.

Some Filipino families have developed creative ways to enjoy their tuyo without causing a neighborhood stir. From cooking it outside on a portable stove to using ovens instead of frying pans to reduce the smell, fans of this dried fish find ways to savor it while keeping the peace.

A Flavor Worth the Trouble

The truth is, tuyo is one of those dishes you either love or hate—and if you love it, the smell doesn’t matter. Its salty, savory flavor is deeply satisfying, especially when combined with complementary sides like garlic-fried rice, vinegar, or scrambled eggs. Whether you grew up with it or have acquired the taste as an adult, tuyo has an almost addictive quality that brings you back for more.

For Filipinos living abroad, enjoying tuyo is a sensory experience that goes beyond taste. It’s about reconnecting with your roots, recalling memories of early morning breakfasts with family, and finding comfort in the familiar. Sure, it might mean sacrificing a bit of harmony with your neighbors, but for many, it’s a price worth paying for a taste of home.

Conclusion

Tuyo may not win any popularity contests with your condo neighbors, but for Filipinos, it’s more than just a dish. It’s a symbol of home, comfort, and culture—something that cannot be replaced, no matter where you are in the world. So the next time you catch a whiff of that unmistakable aroma, just remember: it’s the smell of home.