Veganizing Filipino Cuisine: 12 Vegan Recipes to Enjoy

Vegan Filipino food is becoming increasingly popular as people look for healthy, plant-based alternatives to traditional dishes. From vegan versions of classic adobo to vegetable lumpia and more, there are plenty of delicious recipes that can satisfy even the pickiest eater. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or an indulgent dinner.

These 12 vegan Filipino dishes are sure to please. From vegan Bicol Express and Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw to Adobong Kangkong, Ukoy, Laing, Ginisang Monggo, and Vegan Pancit Palabok—there’s something for everyone in this collection of vegan Filipino recipes! So grab your ingredients and get cooking!

Veganizing Filipino Cuisine_ 12 Vegan Recipes to Enjoy

 

1. Pinakbet

Pinakbet is a must-try Filipino vegetarian dish, made with vegetables eggplant, okra, bitter melon, bell pepper, squash, bok choy, and tomatoes, which can all be found in the traditional Filipino diet. The vegetables are simmered in water or stock and finally flavored with shrimp paste for added umami.

This vegan recipe is popular for its complex flavor profile that comes from its characteristic spices and herbs like garlic, ginger, spices like bay leaves, and peppercorn, combined to create a fragrant and hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone. Give Pinakbet a try – you won’t regret it!

List of Ingredients:

  • Eggplant
  • Tomatoes
  • Bitter Melon
  • Okra
  • Long gongbeans (Sitaw)
  • Squash (Kalabasa)
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Ginger
  • Shrimp Paste (Bagoong)
  • Fish Sauce (Patis)

 

How to Cook Pinakbet

Cooking pinakbet is relatively easy, as long as you have all the ingredients prepared. Follow these steps:

Step 1. Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat, then add the garlic and onion. Cook until softened and fragrant.

Step 2. Add the shrimp paste and fish sauce and stir for a few minutes until combined.

Step 3. Add all the vegetables except for the squash: eggplant, tomatoes, bitter melon, okra, and long string beans. Stir for about 4 minutes or until the vegetables become slightly tender.

Step 4. Add squash into the mix and cover with a lid for 5 minutes so it can cook in its own juices.

Step 5. Uncover the lid for 1 minute to allow extra moisture to evaporate if needed then turn off the heat immediately afterward. Taste it and adjust seasonings if desired such as more salt or pepper if needed before serving warm over hot steamed white rice! Enjoy!

Pinakbet

 

2. Kare-Kareng Gulay

Kare-Kareng Gulay is a delicious vegan recipe from the Philippines that will satisfy all taste buds. This simple yet flavourful dish combines fresh vegetables with a unique peanut-based sauce and is often served with rice or bagoong (fermented fish paste).

Not only does it make for an impressive vegan feast, but this savory concoction is also full of healthy ingredients like squash, eggplant, green beans, and tofu. So if you’re looking for a nutritious and innovative vegan meal to enjoy, try out Kare-Kareng Gulay – you won’t be disappointed!

List of Ingredients:

  • Peanut Butter
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Tomatoes
  • Eggplant
  • Green Beans
  • Long String Bean (Sitaw)
  • String Squash (Kalabasa)
  • Bamboo Shoots (Labong)
  • Ground White Pepper and Salt to taste
  • Vegetable Oil

 

How to Cook Kare-Kareng Gulay

Preparing Kare-Kareng Gulay is a relatively easy process, and the dish can be cooked in one pot. Follow these steps:

Step 1. Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium heat.

Step 2. Add garlic and onion and cook until they are soft and fragrant.

Step 3. Add the tomatoes and all the vegetables: eggplant, green beans, long string beans, squash, and bamboo shoots. Cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.

Step 4. Pour in the peanut butter while stirring to fully incorporate it with the vegetables. Reduce heat to low-medium and simmer for about 10 minutes or until sauce is thick and creamy.

Step 5. Add ground white pepper and salt to taste then turn off the heat. Serve warm over steamed white rice! Enjoy!

Kare-Kareng Gulay

 

3. Sinigang na Isda

Sinigang na isda is a Filipino vegan recipe that features a tart and savory broth fueled with the flavors of tamarind. This dish can be made with various types of fish or shellfish such as bangus, galunggong, tilapia, or shrimp.

Root vegetables, greens, and tomatoes are also commonly added to make the soup more hearty and flavorful. Aside from being vegan-friendly, this traditional soup is bursting with umami notes for everyone to enjoy.

List of Ingredients:

  • Tamarind Pods
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Tomatoes
  • Eggplant
  • Long String Bean (Sitaw)
  • String Squash (Kalabasa)
  • Tofu or Seitan (optional)
  • Ground White Pepper and Salt to taste
  • Vegetable Oil
  • Choice of Fish

 

How to Cook Sinigang na Isda

Cooking sinigang na isda is easy! Follow these steps to make the perfect vegan version of this traditional Filipino soup.

Step 1. In a saucepan, heat some oil and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Step 2. Add the tamarind pods, breaking them up as you stir for a few minutes until the tamarind has released its flavor into the broth.

Step 3. Add all the vegetables: tomatoes, eggplant, long string bean (sitaw), and string squash (kalabasa). Stir for 2 to 3 minutes until everything is well combined.

Step 4. If using tofu or seitan, add it in with the vegetables and stir for another minute until everything is heated through.

Step 5. Add ground white pepper and salt to taste, stirring for a few more minutes until everything is cooked through.

Step 6. Serve over hot steamed white rice and enjoy! Enjoy!

Sinigang na Isda

 

4. Vegetable Lumpia

Vegetable Lumpia is a vegan Filipino dish filled with fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and green beans, rolled up with egg roll wrappers, and then fried. This tried-and-true recipe is sure to please all palates–young and old.

Endeavor to explore the wide variety of flavor profiles available in this dish by experimenting with different seasonings, including traditional Filipino spices such as annatto and garlic. With its unique twist on familiar ingredients, Vegetable Lumpia will transform everyday meals into appetizing adventures for your family to enjoy.

List of Ingredients:

  • Carrots
  • Cabbage
  • Beansprouts
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Vegetable Oil (for frying) or Egg Replacer Solution (for baking)
  • Lumpia Wrappers

 

How to Cook Vegetable Lumpia

Cooking vegetable lumpia is easy! Follow these steps to make the perfect vegan version of this traditional Filipino dish.

Step 1. Start by gathering the vegetables. Peel and shred or cut the carrots, cabbage, beansprouts, and garlic into small pieces.

Step 2. In a large bowl, mix together the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3. Get your lumpia wrappers ready by soaking them in water for 1-2 minutes until they become pliable.

Step 4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the vegetable mixture in the center of each wrapper and roll it up, securing it with a dab of water if necessary.

Step 5. To fry the lumpia, heat enough oil in a deep pan to cover half the lumpia and cook on medium heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Serve your vegetable lumpia with a dipping sauce of your choice and enjoy!

Vegetable Lumpia

 

5. Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw

Ginataang kalabasa at sitaw is a vegan dish that originates from the Philippines. It’s made with squash (kalabasa) and string beans (sitaw) cooked in coconut milk and spices. This hearty stew is full of flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect dish to serve during the holidays or any day!

List of ingredients:

  • Kalabasa, cubed
  • Sitaw, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Coconut milk
  • Garlic, minced
  • Onion, chopped
  • Fish sauce or vegan alternative (such as soy sauce)
  • Salt to taste
  • Ground black pepper to taste
  • Red chili pepper, minced (optional)

 

How to Cook Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw

Making this delicious vegan version of ginataang kalabasa at sitaw is easy! Follow these steps:

Step 1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion and sauté until fragrant.

Step 2. Add kalabasa and sitaw to the pot and stir to coat with the oil mixture.

Step 3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring it to a boil.

Step 4. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

Step 5. Add fish sauce (or vegan alternative), salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 6. If desired, add red chili pepper for a bit of spice. Serve warm over hot steamed white rice and enjoy!

Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw

 

6. Laing

Laing is a vegan Filipino dish made with taro leaves cooked in coconut milk and spices. It is rich and creamy, making it the perfect comfort food for those cold nights!

List of ingredients:

  • Taro leaves
  • Coconut milk
  • Garlic, minced
  • Onion, chopped
  • Shrimp paste or vegan alternative (such as miso paste)
  • Salt to taste
  • Ground black pepper to taste
  • Red chili pepper, minced (optional)
  • Vegetable oil

 

How to Cook Laing

Preparing Laing is easy! Follow these steps:

Step 1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat.

Step 2. Add garlic and onion and sauté until fragrant.

Step 3. Add taro leaves to the pot and stir to coat with the oil mixture.

Step 4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring it to a boil.

Step 5. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

Step 6. Add shrimp paste (or vegan alternative), salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 7. If desired, add red chili pepper for a bit of spice. Serve warm over hot steamed white rice and enjoy!

Laing

 

7. Ginisang Monggo

Ginisang monggo is a delicious and nutritious Filipino vegan recipe made with mung beans, vegetables, and spices. This dish is commonly served as a main course for lunch or dinner and is perfect for those looking for a healthy and hearty meal.

List of Ingredients:

  • 1 cup mung beans
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup squash, diced
  • 1 cup eggplant, diced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 4 cups vegetable broth

 

How to Cook Ginisang Monggo

Follow these steps to make this delicious and nutritious vegan Filipino dish, Ginisang Monggo.

Step 1. Rinse the mung beans thoroughly and soak in water for 30 minutes.

Step 2. Drain the water and place the mung beans in a pot with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil and then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are soft.

Step 3. In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and tomato, and cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 4. Add the cooked mung beans and vegetable broth to the pan with the vegetables. Mix well and bring to a boil.

Step 5. Add the spinach, squash, and eggplant to the pan. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 6. Cover the pan and let the vegetables cook for 15-20 minutes or until they are soft. Serve the ginisang monggo hot with rice.

Ginisang Monggo

 

8. Vegan Bicol Express

Bicol Express is a popular Filipino dish made with pork, coconut milk, and shrimp paste. This vegan version features various vegetables cooked in a savory and creamy coconut milk-based sauce. It’s sure to be enjoyed by all!

List of Ingredients:

  • Eggplant (optional)
  • Carrots
  • Potatoes
  • String beans
  • Peppers
  • Garlic
  • Onions
  • Coconut milk (full fat)
  • Soy sauce or liquid aminos
  • Vegan shrimp paste substitute (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

 

How to Cook Vegan Bicol Express

Making this vegan version of Bicol Express is super easy. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1. Chop the vegetables into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and add a splash of oil. Add the chopped vegetables and cook until they are softened and lightly golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3. Reduce the heat to low and add in the coconut milk, soy sauce or liquid aminos, vegan shrimp paste substitute (if using). Simmer for 8-10 minutes and stir occasionally.

Step 4. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, and another seasoning to your liking.

Step 5. Serve the Vegan Bicol Express over warm cooked rice or noodles and enjoy! You can also top it with some freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Vegan Bicol Express

 

9. Adobong Kangkong

Adobong Kangkong is a Filipino dish made with fresh water spinach and a flavorful fermented soybean paste-based sauce. This vegan version of the classic dish is sure to be a winner in your kitchen!

List of Ingredients:

  • Kangkong leaves
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Tomato
  • Fermented soybean paste
  • Coconut oil
  • Salt and pepper

 

How to Cook Adobong Kangkong

Cooking Adobong Kangkong is fairly straightforward and easy to do.

Step 1. Heat some oil in a pot over medium-high heat and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.

Step 2. Add the tomato and stir until it turns into a paste.

Step 3. Place the kangkong leaves in the pot, and season with some salt and pepper.

Step 4. Add the fermented soybean paste and stir until everything is well-combined.

Step 5. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for about 10 minutes or until kangkong leaves are tender. Serve hot with steamed white rice. Enjoy!

Adobong Kangkong

 

10. Ukoy

Ukoy (Vegan Shrimp Fritters) is a Filipino dish made with shrimp, vegetables, and batter. This vegan version features various vegetables cooked in a flavorful batter that is fried until golden brown and crispy. It’s an incredibly tasty and healthy snack or appetizer!

List of Ingredients:

  • Taro root
  • Carrots
  • Beansprouts
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Vegan shrimp paste substitute (or vegan fish sauce)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • All-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Soy sauce or liquid aminos (optional)

 

How to Cook Ukoy

Making your own Ukoy is easy! Follow these steps to make the perfect vegan version of this classic Filipino dish.

Step 1. In a bowl, mix together the taro root, carrots, beansprouts, onions, garlic, vegan shrimp paste substitute (or vegan fish sauce), salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 2. Slowly add enough all-purpose flour to the mixture until it reaches a thick batter-like consistency.

Step 3. Heat enough oil in a large pan over medium heat for deep-frying.

Step 4. Carefully scoop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.

Step 5. Transfer the fritters onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with soy sauce or liquid aminos (optional) and enjoy!

Ukoy

 

11. Atchara

Atchara is a Filipino side dish made with pickled vegetables. This vegan version features julienned carrots, bell pepper, and unripe papaya cooked in a flavorful vinegar-based sauce. It’s a great addition to any meal!

List of Ingredients:

  • Carrots
  • Bell peppers
  • Unripe papaya
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • White vinegar
  • Sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil (optional)
  • Water (optional)

 

How to Cook Atchara

Making atchara is easy! Follow these steps for the perfect vegan version of this classic Filipino side dish.

Step 1. Start by julienning the carrots and bell peppers, and thinly slicing the unripe papaya.

Step 2. In a large bowl, mix together the vegetables with garlic, onion, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 3. Add vegetable oil and/or water to the mixture if desired.

Step 4. Place the mixture into a sealable container or jar and let it sit for at least two hours before serving.

Step 5. Serve with your favorite Filipino dishes and enjoy! It tastes even better when left overnight in the refrigerator, so you can make it a day ahead.

Atchara

 

12. Vegan Pancit Palabok

Pancit palabok is a Filipino noodle dish made with rice noodles and various toppings, such as shrimp, pork, eggs, and vegetables. This vegan version features vegetable-based toppings cooked in a flavorful sauce. It’s sure to be enjoyed by all!

List of Ingredients:

  • Rice noodles
  • Vegetables (carrots, green beans, mushrooms, cauliflower)
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Coconut milk
  • Vegan fish sauce
  • Lime juice
  • Soy sauce
  • Brown sugar

 

How to Cook Vegan Pancit Palabok

Cooking Pancit Paabok is a simple process.

Step 1. Boil the rice noodles in salted water for around 8 minutes or until they are al dente (tender but still firm). Drain and set aside.

Step 2. In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat and add the vegetables. Sauté for about 5 minutes.

Step 3. Add onions, garlic, and ginger to the pan and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4. Pour in the coconut milk and simmer for 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5. Add the vegan fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar to the pan and mix everything together.

Step 6. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and mix until all of the ingredients are well-combined. Serve warm with your favorite toppings (optional) and enjoy!

Vegan Pancit Palabok

 

In Conclusion

Vegan Filipino cuisine is a great way to enjoy classic Filipino dishes without any animal products. From lumpia and ginataang kalabasa at sitaw to ukoy and adobong kangkong, there are a variety of delicious vegan recipes to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting stew, a nutritious side dish, or an indulgent snack, there’s something for everyone! So give vegan Filipino cuisine a try and you’re sure to be impressed. Bon Appetit!