Pilipino Pantry is a series I started in January 2017 as a way to share Filipino recipes and ingredient substitutes to help myself and others feel more confident using our lokal varieties. Pilipino Pantry is a way for me to embrace Filipino food and ingredients. I hope you find it helpful as well. 

Rice Is Life. I love this Filipino motto, it is the truth for Filipino way of life. We have champorado, garlic rice, bagoong rice, kakanin, suman, puffed rice and so many other varieties. I am amazed at how a culture can utilize one grain in so many different forms. 

Recently, I was writing at a favorite cafe while simultaneously working my way through the breakfast menu. When it came to the yogurt bowl I asked if the puffed rice could be substituted instead for granola. "Sorry mam, not possible." Slightly frustrated and If I am being completely honest, I probably rolled my eyes a little because I frequent this cafe many times a week, they know me! My entitled self got smacked down - ha! But there is a happy ending to this story, I am so glad they told me no because the puffed rice topping has now become a favorite of mine in my own home. I would have never stumbled upon this fun crunchy rice if they had have given me the granola. So Universe, I thank you for not granting my request and giving me something else wonderful in return. 

I know it seems silly to write about puffed rice in a food column but I see this as one more way the Philippines continues to surprise me. Have you ever had puffed rice like this? I had never, nor would I ever think to pop rice! And here we are eating it on our yogurt, salads and soups. I had red rice on hand from Holy Carbao and it has proved to have the best taste and pop. I also love knowing that I am supporting a local farmer, way to go girls! 

I am learning that rice can be a simple staple or a fun variant to any meal, you choose! Kain na tayo! 

Kita Kits,

Amber