20+ Filipino Recipe For Christmas Eve Dinner Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Apr 25, 2024
Christmas Eve is a special time for Filipinos, and it is no surprise that they have a unique tradition of preparing a special dinner to celebrate the occasion. This Filipino recipe for Christmas Eve dinner is a reflection of the country's rich culture and history, as well as their love for food and family. As the holiday season approaches, let's take a closer look at this mouthwatering feast and how it brings joy and warmth to every Filipino household.
Main Ingredients: Pork Country Style Ribs, 7 Up, Soy Sauce, White
If you're looking for a tasty and easy weeknight dinner, look no further than these Filipino BBQ pork skewers. The combination of sweet and savory flavors make these skewers a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, they can be made on the grill or in the oven, making them perfect for any time of year.
To make these skewers, start by marinating chunks of pork in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and vinegar. This marinade infuses the pork with tons of flavor and helps to tenderize the meat. Then, skewer the pork onto wooden or metal skewers and cook them until they're golden brown and slightly charred. Serve the skewers over a bed of rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
2of 40
Embutido (Filipino Meat Loaf)
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Garlic, Carrots, Yellow Onion, Red Bell
Embutido, or Filipino meatloaf, is a staple in many Filipino households. This dish is a delicious combination of ground pork, vegetables, and spices all wrapped up in a flavorful and moist meatloaf. It's often served as a main dish with rice or as an appetizer at parties.
To make embutido, start by mixing ground pork, onions, carrots, bell peppers, and raisins in a bowl. Add in breadcrumbs, eggs, and your choice of seasonings, such as garlic powder and soy sauce. Shape the mixture into a log and wrap it in foil. Then, steam or bake the embutido until it's fully cooked. Slice and serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty and unique dinner option.
3of 40
Skewered Filipino Pork BBQ
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Soy Sauce, Ketchup, Lemons, Garlic
This skewered Filipino pork BBQ is another delicious and easy weeknight dinner option. The pork is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and brown sugar, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor. The skewers can be grilled or cooked in the oven, making them a versatile choice for any time of year.
To make these skewers, simply marinate chunks of pork in the marinade for at least an hour. Then, skewer the pork and grill or bake until it's fully cooked. Serve the skewers with a side of rice and your choice of vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
4of 40
Dinner in Under 30 Minutes
Main Ingredients: Biscuits, Pizza Sauce, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
For those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy dinner option, try this dinner in under 30 minutes. This meal is a combination of chicken, vegetables, and rice all cooked in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
To make this dish, start by browning chicken pieces in a pot. Then, add in your choice of vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and peas, and cook until they're slightly softened. Finally, add in rice, chicken broth, and seasonings, and cook until the rice is tender. This dinner is not only quick and easy, but also nutritious and delicious.
5of 40
Shipwreck Casserole Dinner
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Olive Oil, Frozen Hash Browns, White
If you're looking for a comforting and hearty dinner option, try this shipwreck casserole dinner. This dish is a combination of ground beef, vegetables, and potatoes all layered in a casserole dish and baked until the flavors meld together.
To make this casserole, start by browning ground beef in a skillet. Then, layer the beef with your choice of vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and peas, in a casserole dish. Finally, top the casserole with sliced potatoes and bake until the potatoes are tender. This dish is perfect for a cozy and comforting family dinner.
6of 40
Easy One-Pot Pasta | Cozy & Healthy 20 Minute Dinner!
Main Ingredients: Dry Pasta, Grape Tomatoes, Garlic Cloves, Yellow Onion
This easy one-pot pasta is a perfect dinner option for those busy weeknights. The pasta is cooked with vegetables, such as spinach and cherry tomatoes, in a flavorful broth, making it both healthy and delicious. Plus, it only takes 20 minutes to make, making it a great option for those nights when you don't have a lot of time to cook.
To make this dish, simply cook your choice of pasta in a pot with broth, garlic, and vegetables. Once the pasta is fully cooked, stir in some cheese and seasonings for added flavor. This dish is not only quick and easy, but also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies into your family's diet.
7of 40
Mongolian Beef Dinner
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Ginger, Garlic, Low Sodium Soy Sauce
This Mongolian beef dinner is a tasty and easy option for those nights when you're craving Chinese takeout. The beef is tender and flavorful, and the sauce is rich and savory. Serve it over a bed of rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
To make this dish, start by marinating beef in a mixture of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and garlic. Then, stir-fry the beef in a skillet until it's cooked through. Finally, add in a homemade sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger, and cook until the sauce thickens. This dish is sure to become a family favorite.
8of 40
Filipino Sisig
Main Ingredients: Pork Tenderloin, Shallots, Seasoning, Chives, Garlic
Filipino sisig is a popular and delicious dish made with chopped pork, onions, and spices. It's often served as a bar snack or appetizer, but it can also be enjoyed as a main dish with rice.
To make this dish, start by cooking pork belly in a skillet until it's crispy. Then, add in onions, garlic, and chili peppers and cook until they're slightly softened. Finally, add in soy sauce, vinegar, and seasonings, and cook until the sisig is fully cooked. Serve it hot with a side of rice for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
9of 40
Filipino Adobo Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Drumsticks, Low Sodium Soy Sauce, Apple Cider
Filipino Adobo chicken is a classic and traditional dish that is a staple in many Filipino households. The chicken is cooked in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic, giving it a tangy and savory flavor that is sure to please.
To make this dish, start by marinating chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. Then, cook the chicken in a skillet until it's fully cooked. Finally, add in more of the marinade and let it simmer until the sauce thickens. This dish is best served with a side of rice and your choice of vegetables.
10of 40
Lasagna for Christmas Eve Dinner
Main Ingredients: Meat Sauce, Lasagna Noodles, Chopped Flat Leaf Parsley
Lasagna is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for any special occasion, including Christmas Eve dinner. This dish is made with layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese, and it's always a hit with both kids and adults.
To make lasagna, start by cooking ground beef in a skillet and then adding in a homemade sauce made with tomatoes, onions, and seasonings. Then, layer the beef sauce with cooked lasagna noodles and a mixture of ricotta cheese, eggs, and Parmesan cheese. Finally, top the lasagna with mozzarella cheese and bake until it's bubbly and golden brown. This dish is sure to become a holiday tradition.
11of 40
Filipino Spaghetti
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Tomato Sauce, Tomato Paste, Minced Onion
Filipino spaghetti is a unique and delicious twist on traditional spaghetti. This dish is made with a sweet and savory sauce made with banana ketchup, ground pork, and hot dogs. It's often served at birthday parties and other special occasions.
To make this dish, start by cooking ground pork in a skillet and then adding in onions, garlic, and hot dogs. Then, add in banana ketchup, tomato sauce, and seasonings, and let the sauce simmer until it's thick and flavorful. Serve the sauce over cooked spaghetti noodles for a tasty and unique dinner option.
12of 40
FILIPINO BEEF TAPA
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Brown Sugar, Garlic, Onion Powder, Garlic
Filipino beef tapa is a popular breakfast dish that is made with thinly sliced beef that's been marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, calamansi juice, and spices. It's typically served with garlic fried rice and a fried egg.
To make this dish, start by marinating thinly sliced beef in a mixture of soy sauce, calamansi juice, and garlic. Then, fry the beef in a skillet until it's tender and slightly charred. Serve it over a bed of garlic fried rice for a delicious and traditional Filipino breakfast.
13of 40
Filipino Chicken Adobo
Main Ingredients: Chicken Legs, Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Light Soy
Filipino chicken adobo is a simple and flavorful dish that is a staple in many Filipino households. The chicken is cooked in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic, giving it a tangy and savory flavor that is sure to please.
To make this dish, start by marinating chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. Then, cook the chicken in a skillet until it's fully cooked. Finally, add in more of the marinade and let it simmer until the sauce thickens. This dish is best served with a side of rice and your choice of vegetables.
14of 40
Filipino Pork Belly Adobo
Main Ingredients: Pork Belly, Vinegar, Soy Sauce, Garlic, Black
Filipino pork belly adobo is a variation of the classic chicken adobo dish. This version is made with tender and fatty pork belly that is cooked in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and spices. It's a rich and satisfying dish that is perfect for special occasions.
To make this dish, start by marinating pork belly in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. Then, cook the pork in a skillet until it's fully cooked. Finally, add in more of the marinade and let it simmer until the sauce thickens. This dish is best served with a side of rice and your choice of vegetables.
15of 40
Filipino Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Drumsticks, Minced Garlic, Minced Onion, Oyster
Filipino fried chicken is a popular dish that is a hit with both kids and adults. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. It's then coated in a crispy batter and deep fried until it's golden brown and crispy on the outside.
To make this dish, start by marinating chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and seasonings. Then, coat the chicken in a mixture of flour and cornstarch and fry it until it's fully cooked. Serve the fried chicken with a side of rice and your choice of vegetables for a satisfying and tasty meal.
16of 40
Filipino Coconut Chicken Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Garlic Cloves, Onion, Fresh Ginger Root
This Filipino coconut chicken curry is a delicious and flavorful dish that is sure to please. The chicken is cooked in a rich and creamy coconut milk sauce that is flavored with spices and aromatics. It's often served with rice and a variety of toppings, such as fried onions and boiled eggs.
To make this dish, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot, then add in chicken pieces and cook until they're browned. Then, add in coconut milk, fish sauce, and seasonings, and let the curry simmer until the flavors meld together. Serve the curry over rice and top it with your choice of toppings for a hearty and satisfying meal.
17of 40
Pancit Bihon (Filipino Noodle)
Main Ingredients: Rice Stick Noodles, Liquid Aminos, Chicken, Coconut
Pancit bihon, also known as Filipino noodle, is a popular and traditional dish that is often served at special occasions, such as birthday parties and holidays. The dish is made with thin rice noodles and a variety of vegetables and meats, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
To make this dish, start by sautéing onions, garlic, and a variety of vegetables in a skillet. Then, add in cooked rice noodles and a homemade sauce made with chicken broth, soy sauce, and seasonings. Finally, stir in your choice of meat, such as chicken or shrimp, and cook until everything is heated through. This dish is best served hot and garnished with green onions and calamansi juice.
18of 40
Pinoy Pork Skewers AKA Filipino Street Food
Main Ingredients: Pork Butt, Soy Sauce, Garlic, Onion, Lemons, 7up
These Pinoy pork skewers, also known as Filipino street food, are a popular and tasty snack that is often sold by vendors on the streets of the Philippines. The pork is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, calamansi juice, and spices, giving it a tangy and flavorful taste.
To make these skewers, start by marinating chunks of pork in the marinade for at least an hour. Then, skewer the pork and grill or bake until it's fully cooked. Serve the skewers with a side of rice and your choice of dipping sauce for a delicious and authentic Filipino street food experience.
19of 40
Prime Rib for Christmas Dinner
Main Ingredients: Standing Rib Roast, Olive Oil, Kosher Salt, Freshly
For a special and impressive holiday dinner, try making prime rib for Christmas dinner. This dish is a large and tender cut of beef that is roasted in the oven until it's perfectly cooked. It's often served with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
To make this dish, start by seasoning a prime rib roast with your choice of herbs and spices. Then, roast the beef in the oven until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let the beef rest before slicing and serving it with your favorite sides for a decadent and delicious Christmas feast.
20of 40
Filipino Pork Barbecue Bowl
Main Ingredients: Pork Tenderloins, Soy Sauce, Apple Cider Vinegar
This Filipino pork barbecue bowl is a delicious and easy dinner option that is sure to please. The pork is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, giving it a unique and flavorful taste. It's then grilled or baked and served over a bed of rice with a variety of toppings, such as pickled vegetables and boiled eggs.
To make this dish, start by marinating pork in the marinade for at least an hour. Then, grill or bake the pork until it's fully cooked. Serve it over a bed of rice and top it with your choice of toppings for a complete and satisfying meal.
21of 40
Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Main Ingredients: Pork Country Style Ribs, 7 Up, Soy Sauce, White
This recipe takes the flavors of traditional Filipino barbecue and applies them to beer can chicken. Marinated in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar, this chicken is then skewered and grilled to perfection. Serve with a side of rice and you have a delicious and unique meal.
22of 40
Embutido (Filipino Meat Loaf)
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Garlic, Carrots, Yellow Onion, Red Bell
If you're looking for a twist on traditional beer can chicken, try this Embutido recipe. It involves stuffing the chicken with a mixture of ground pork, carrots, and raisins, resulting in a flavorful and hearty dish. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food meal.
23of 40
Skewered Filipino Pork BBQ
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Soy Sauce, Ketchup, Lemons, Garlic
Another Filipino-inspired dish, this recipe uses a combination of soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar to marinade the chicken before grilling. The end result is a flavorful and tender chicken that pairs perfectly with a side of steamed veggies.
24of 40
Dinner in Under 30 Minutes
Main Ingredients: Biscuits, Pizza Sauce, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal. Simply marinate the chicken in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and garlic, and then cook on the grill for 30 minutes. Serve with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
25of 40
Shipwreck Casserole Dinner
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Olive Oil, Frozen Hash Browns, White
This hearty and comforting casserole is a great way to use up leftover beer can chicken. Simply combine the chicken with potatoes, carrots, and other veggies in a casserole dish and bake until everything is cooked through. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
26of 40
Easy One-Pot Pasta | Cozy & Healthy 20 Minute Dinner!
Main Ingredients: Dry Pasta, Grape Tomatoes, Garlic Cloves, Yellow Onion
If you're looking for a simple and healthy dinner option, this one-pot pasta dish is perfect. The chicken is combined with pasta, veggies, and a creamy sauce, resulting in a filling and delicious meal. Plus, it only takes 20 minutes to make!
27of 40
Mongolian Beef Dinner
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Ginger, Garlic, Low Sodium Soy Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of Mongolian beef with beer can chicken for a unique and delicious meal. The chicken is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger, and then grilled to perfection. Serve with a side of stir-fried veggies for a complete meal.
28of 40
Filipino Sisig
Main Ingredients: Pork Tenderloin, Shallots, Seasoning, Chives, Garlic
Sisig is a popular Filipino dish made with chopped meat, usually pork, and served on a sizzling plate. This recipe puts a twist on the traditional dish by using beer can chicken as the main protein. The chicken is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, and then cooked on the grill for a flavorful and unique meal.
29of 40
Filipino Adobo Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Drumsticks, Low Sodium Soy Sauce, Apple Cider
Adobo is a popular Filipino cooking method that involves marinating meat in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic. This recipe uses this flavorful marinade on beer can chicken, resulting in a juicy and tender dish that pairs perfectly with rice and veggies.
30of 40
Lasagna for Christmas Eve Dinner
Main Ingredients: Meat Sauce, Lasagna Noodles, Chopped Flat Leaf Parsley
If you're looking for a show-stopping meal for your holiday dinner, look no further than this beer can chicken lasagna. The chicken is shredded and layered with lasagna noodles, cheese, and a tomato sauce for a delicious and hearty meal that will impress your guests.
31of 40
Filipino Spaghetti
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Tomato Sauce, Tomato Paste, Minced Onion
This unique twist on traditional spaghetti uses beer can chicken as the main protein. The chicken is combined with a homemade tomato sauce, cheese, and spaghetti noodles for a hearty and flavorful meal that is sure to become a family favorite.
32of 40
FILIPINO BEEF TAPA
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Brown Sugar, Garlic, Onion Powder, Garlic
Tapa is a popular Filipino breakfast dish made with thinly sliced beef that is marinated and then fried. This recipe puts a twist on the traditional dish by using beer can chicken instead of beef. The chicken is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, and then cooked until crispy and flavorful.
33of 40
Filipino Chicken Adobo
Main Ingredients: Chicken Legs, Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Light Soy
This classic Filipino dish is made with chicken that is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic, and then cooked until tender and flavorful. It can be served over rice or with a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal.
34of 40
Filipino Pork Belly Adobo
Main Ingredients: Pork Belly, Vinegar, Soy Sauce, Garlic, Black
If you're a fan of pork belly, you'll love this beer can chicken recipe. The chicken is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, and then slow-cooked until tender and flavorful. Serve with a side of rice and veggies for a delicious and hearty meal.
35of 40
Filipino Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Drumsticks, Minced Garlic, Minced Onion, Oyster
For a different take on fried chicken, try this beer can chicken recipe. The chicken is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, and then fried until crispy and golden brown. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting and delicious meal.
36of 40
Filipino Coconut Chicken Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Garlic Cloves, Onion, Fresh Ginger Root
This flavorful and creamy coconut chicken curry is a great way to use your leftover beer can chicken. Simply combine the chicken with a coconut curry sauce and serve over rice for a delicious and unique meal.
37of 40
Pancit Bihon (Filipino Noodle)
Main Ingredients: Rice Stick Noodles, Liquid Aminos, Chicken, Coconut
This traditional Filipino dish is made with rice noodles, vegetables, and meat. In this recipe, beer can chicken is used as the main protein, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal.
38of 40
Pinoy Pork Skewers AKA Filipino Street Food
Main Ingredients: Pork Butt, Soy Sauce, Garlic, Onion, Lemons, 7up
These skewers are a popular street food in the Philippines and are often made with pork. In this recipe, beer can chicken is used as the main protein, resulting in a unique and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue.
39of 40
Prime Rib for Christmas Dinner
Main Ingredients: Standing Rib Roast, Olive Oil, Kosher Salt, Freshly
If you're looking for a show-stopping main dish for your holiday dinner, try this beer can chicken prime rib recipe. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, and then slow-roasted until tender and juicy. Serve with your favorite side dishes for a festive and delicious meal.
40of 40
Filipino Pork Barbecue Bowl
Main Ingredients: Pork Tenderloins, Soy Sauce, Apple Cider Vinegar
This flavorful and colorful bowl is a great way to use up leftover beer can chicken. Simply combine the chicken with a blend of rice, veggies, and a homemade barbecue sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
The Star of the Dinner: Lechon
Lechon, or roasted pig, is the undisputed star of every Filipino Christmas Eve dinner table. This succulent and crispy whole pig is usually prepared by slowly roasting it over charcoal until the skin turns golden brown and crackly. The meat inside is cooked to perfection, with a perfect balance of tenderness and juiciness. It is often served with a special liver sauce, made from a combination of liver, vinegar, and spices, adding a tangy and savory flavor to the dish.
Related main keyword: Lechon Baboy
Lechon Baboy, or roasted pig, is a staple in Filipino celebrations, and it is especially popular during Christmas Eve dinner. It is not just a delicious dish, but it is also a symbol of abundance and prosperity. In Filipino culture, it is believed that serving lechon during special occasions brings good luck and blessings to the household.
Related main keyword: Lechon Kawali
Another version of lechon that is often served during Christmas Eve dinner is lechon kawali. Unlike the whole roasted pig, lechon kawali is made from pork belly, which is boiled, air-dried, and then deep-fried until the skin is crispy. It is served with a side of vinegar dipping sauce and is a favorite among Filipinos for its simplicity and deliciousness.
The Supporting Cast: Other Christmas Eve Dishes
Aside from lechon, there are other dishes that make up a traditional Filipino Christmas Eve dinner. These include pancit (stir-fried noodles), lumpia (spring rolls), and hamon (baked ham). These dishes are often served alongside lechon, adding more variety and flavors to the feast.
Related main keyword: Pancit Bihon
Pancit bihon, or stir-fried rice noodles, is a staple in Filipino cuisine and is often served during special occasions like Christmas Eve dinner. It is made with thin rice noodles, sautéed with vegetables, meat, and a variety of sauces and spices. It is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for those who are looking for a lighter option during the holiday feast.
Related main keyword: Lumpiang Shanghai
Lumpiang shanghai, or Filipino-style spring rolls, is a favorite appetizer during Christmas Eve dinner. These bite-sized rolls are filled with a mixture of ground pork, vegetables, and spices, and then deep-fried until golden and crispy. They are often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce and are a hit among both kids and adults.
Related main keyword: Christmas Ham
Hamon, or Christmas ham, is a popular dish during the holiday season in the Philippines. It is made by baking a whole leg of ham, glazed with a mixture of pineapple juice, brown sugar, and other spices. The result is a sweet and savory ham that is perfect for pairing with other dishes on the Christmas Eve dinner table.
In conclusion, Filipino Christmas Eve dinner is a feast fit for a king, with lechon as the star of the show and other mouthwatering dishes as supporting cast members. This tradition not only showcases the country's love for food, but it also brings families and loved ones together to celebrate the joy and warmth of the holiday season. So if you ever find yourself celebrating Christmas in the Philippines, make sure to indulge in this delicious and unique feast.