Are you hosting a party on a tight budget? Don’t worry, you can still serve delicious Filipino dishes without breaking the bank. From appetizers to desserts, we have compiled a list of easy-to-prepare party foods that won’t hurt your wallet. So, let’s get started!
Appetizers
Start your party with these appetizers that are sure to whet your guests’ appetite.
1. Lumpia Shanghai
Source: bing.comLumpia Shanghai is a popular Filipino appetizer that is easy to make and budget-friendly. It is a deep-fried spring roll filled with ground pork or beef, minced onions, carrots, and celery. You can also add shrimp or tofu to the filling for added flavor. Serve with sweet and sour sauce, and your guests will surely enjoy this crunchy and savory treat.
2. Cheese Puto
Source: bing.comPuto is a steamed rice cake that is commonly served as a merienda or snack in the Philippines. Cheese Puto is a variation that is perfect for parties. It is made with rice flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, milk, and cheese. You can serve it plain or with butter and sugar on top. Your guests will love the cheesy and fluffy texture of these bite-sized cakes.
3. Tokwa’t Baboy
Source: bing.comTokwa’t Baboy is a classic Filipino appetizer that is a combination of fried tofu and boiled pork ears or cheeks. It is served with a dipping sauce made of vinegar, soy sauce, onions, and chili. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious because tofu is a good source of protein and pork ears or cheeks are rich in collagen.
Main Dishes
These main dishes are filling and satisfying, perfect for any party.
1. Adobo Chicken Wings
Source: bing.comChicken wings are a crowd favorite, and adobo is a classic Filipino dish that everyone loves. Combine the two, and you have Adobo Chicken Wings that are sure to be a hit in your party. Marinate the chicken wings in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and black pepper overnight. Then, bake or grill the chicken wings until they are crispy and golden brown. Serve with rice or as a finger food.
2. Pork Menudo
Source: bing.comPork Menudo is a hearty stew that is made with pork, tomato sauce, diced potatoes and carrots, green peas, and raisins. It is best served with rice and a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top. This dish is easy to prepare and can be cooked in large batches for bigger parties.
3. Ginisang Monggo
Source: bing.comGinisang Monggo is a healthy and budget-friendly dish that is made with mung beans, pork belly or chicharon, and vegetables such as spinach or bitter gourd. It is a simple dish that is full of flavor and nutrients. Serve with rice and your guests will surely appreciate this delicious and nutritious dish.
Desserts
End your party on a sweet note with these easy-to-make desserts.
1. Leche Flan
Source: bing.comLeche Flan is a Filipino version of the crème caramel that is made with eggs, milk, and sugar. It is a rich and creamy dessert that is perfect for parties. You can make it in a large pan or in individual ramekins. Serve it chilled and enjoy the sweet and silky texture of this classic Filipino dessert.
2. Fruit Salad
Source: bing.comFruit Salad is a refreshing and healthy dessert that is made with canned fruit cocktail, all-purpose cream, and condensed milk. You can add fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, and grapes for added texture and flavor. Chill the fruit salad for at least an hour before serving, and your guests will love this light and fruity dessert.
3. Turon
Source: bing.comTuron is a popular Filipino dessert that is made with sliced bananas and jackfruit rolled in spring roll wrappers and deep-fried until crispy. It is usually served with caramel sauce or condensed milk. Turon is a budget-friendly dessert that is easy to make and can be prepared in advance.
Important Notes
When planning your party menu, it’s important to consider your guests’ dietary restrictions and preferences. You can offer vegetarian or vegan options for guests who don’t eat meat. You can also offer gluten-free options for guests who have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Another way to save money on your party food is to buy ingredients in bulk or to use leftovers from previous meals. You can also ask your guests to bring a dish to share, potluck-style. This not only helps you save money but also adds variety to your party menu.
Lastly, don’t forget to decorate your party venue with Filipino-themed decorations such as banderitas, lighted parols, and coconut husk centerpieces. This will add a festive and authentic touch to your party.
Conclusion
Hosting a party on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the quality and taste of your food. With these low-budget simple Filipino party foods, you can impress your guests without breaking the bank. So, go ahead and plan your party menu with these delicious and easy-to-prepare dishes, and have a great time with your family and friends.
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