Isabela Delicacies
Pansit Cabagan
Isabela, known as the “Rice Granary of the North,” is one of the largest provinces in the Philippines and is not only recognized for its agricultural prowess but also for its unique and diverse culinary offerings. The province’s fertile lands produce an abundance of rice, corn, and other crops, which serve as the foundation for many of its traditional dishes. Here are some of the top delicacies you must try when visiting Isabela.
These are the top Isabela delicacies:
1. Pancit Cabagan
A trip to Isabela would not be complete without trying Pancit Cabagan, a famous noodle dish from the town of Cabagan. Made from miki noodles (thick egg noodles), this flavorful pancit is stir-fried with vegetables, pork, and topped with quail eggs and lechon kawali (crispy pork belly). What sets Pancit Cabagan apart is the rich, savory sauce that coats the noodles, making it a comforting and filling meal.
2. Binallay
Binallay is a traditional rice cake made from ground sticky rice, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed until soft. It’s served with a generous topping of latik (coconut caramel) or melted sugar, making it a sweet and indulgent treat. This delicacy is usually enjoyed during local festivities and holidays, showcasing Isabela’s strong connection to rice farming and its importance in local culture.
3. Inatata
Inatata, also known as "inatô," is Isabela’s version of suman. It’s made from sticky rice cooked in coconut milk and wrapped in banana leaves. What makes inatata distinct is its delicate texture and subtle sweetness, with flavors that come from the coconut and the natural fragrance of banana leaves. This sticky rice delicacy is often paired with hot chocolate or coffee and is a staple during special occasions and family gatherings.
4. Bacalaw
Bacalaw is a traditional Ivatan dish adopted by the Ibanag people of Isabela. It’s a hearty dish made from dried fish, usually mixed with vegetables like gabi (taro), pechay (bok choy), and string beans, simmered in coconut milk. The combination of dried fish and creamy coconut milk gives it a rich flavor that is both savory and comforting, often enjoyed with rice.
5. Corn Rice
Isabela’s vast cornfields produce more than just crops; they also inspire local dishes like corn rice. Corn rice is a healthier alternative to regular rice and is made by cooking ground corn kernels, which are often combined with rice to create a grainy texture and a sweet, nutty flavor. It’s a staple in many Isabela households, particularly in rural areas, and is a testament to the province’s agricultural roots.
6. Pawa
Pawa is a steamed rice cake filled with sweetened ground peanuts. The dough is made from glutinous rice flour, and the filling is a mixture of ground peanuts and sugar, giving it a delightful balance of chewiness and sweetness. Pawa is often served as a snack or dessert during local festivals and family gatherings, and it’s a must-try for those who enjoy traditional Filipino rice cakes with a twist.
7. Moringa Cookies
A modern addition to Isabela’s culinary offerings, moringa cookies are a healthy snack made from malunggay (moringa) leaves mixed into cookie dough. These cookies are rich in nutrients and have a mild, earthy flavor balanced by the sweetness of the dough. Moringa cookies have gained popularity in recent years, as they represent the province’s embrace of sustainable, healthy eating.
Isabela’s culinary scene is as rich and diverse as its agricultural landscape. From the hearty Pancit Cabagan to the sweet and sticky Binallay, each delicacy reflects the province’s love for homegrown ingredients and traditional cooking methods. A visit to Isabela is not only a feast for the eyes but also a journey through flavors that have been passed down through generations.