Empanadas, from Mexico to Ilocos

From tacos to Ilocos empanadas, the world's most beloved stuffed bites take on new life in Filipino kitchens

- SOL VANZI

Fast, easy, delicious, impressive, and inexpensive are words that describe food cooked in a flour-based skin.

The dishes, originally from the Middle East, South America, China, Europe, the Philippines, and many other parts of the world, have become so popular they are now found everywhere.

Filipinos are familiar with these universal favorites: tacos, shawarma, shao-mai, dolmas, and empanadang Ilocos.

Tacos

We all munch crisp corn tortillas while watching TV or just hanging out. Tacos are palm-size tortillas filled with ground beef, chili sauce, lettuce, avocado, guacamole, tomatoes, salsa, and grated cheese.

Tacos promote camaraderie as everyone shares a large bowl of fillings while gathered around the table.

The fillings could be served in separate bowls or presented premixed in a giant tray.

Shawarma