DumagueteInfo has a new home and you are viewing an archived article. Get the latest of what the new DumagueteInfo has to offer after reading this article. Thank you! Read more →

The famous Roasted Pig in the Philippines

Lechon in the Philippines

Here in the Philippines, we have a very famous dish that is always present in every occasion. We call it the “lechon baboy”. That is actually a roasted pig. Lechon is pork dish in several regions of the world, most specially Spain and its former colonial possessions throughout the world. The word lechon is originated from the Spanish term; that refers to a suckling pig that is roasted. Lechon is is a popular food in the Dominican Republic, other Spanish-speaking nations in Latin America, and Spain. The dish features a whole roasted pig cooked over charcoal. Additionally, it is a national dish of the Philippines.

Lechon always a favorite

Lechon is prepared throughout the the year for any occasion, during festival, and holidays. After seasoning, the pig is cooked by skewering the entire animal, entrails removed, on a large stick and cooking it in a pit filled with charcoal. Lechon is a very delicious meal itself. This can be served as the main dish in every party.

I really like lechon. I consider this food as my favorite. I just don’t know why but to be honest, in every party if I can see a lechon in the table, then I will always go first in slicing the skin. The lechon skin is very crispy and yummy. I also love the rib part. Every person has a favorite. But I tell you, once you taste this food, you will really have more interest in tasting it again. Though, it is not healthy to eat lechon all the time because it has a lot of fats. This can also cause high blood. That is why a lot of old people would just eat a little amount of it. But if you are young, and you know you can still live longer, than better try this food.

Lechon at the table during occasions

Here in our country, when you mention about lechon, this is one of our best food. People in our country would always prefer having lechon in their parties and gathering. In a family gathering or a birthday party, lechon is always placed in the center of the table. Lechon is always present in feasts and in thanksgiving. Lechon is also present during holidays like Christmas and New Year. I can proudly say that I am a Filipino and I am proud that we have something to brag about. It is our food and wonderful culture. I tell you, it is not only lechon that we can offer. We also have a lot of other food that you guys would surely appreciate. You still have to discover a lot from our country. So if you visit our county, please try to taste this food and don’t judge right away. You might miss one half of your life if you can’t experience the delicious food in our country. I am talking about this food because I really like lechon and I know a lot of my fellow Filipinos like this food as well. That is why I am telling you this for you to know and understand why I really love lechon.

Here’s a video on how lechon is cooked and prepared: