Preparing for the Lenten Season: February 22 is Ash Wednesday

The Philippines became a predominantly Catholic  country as it is known today because of its Hispanic influences. As Catholics, Filipinos observe the Lenten Season with much veneration and solemnity.

Lent prepares the Christian for the yearly commemoration of Christ's Death and Resurrection. Beginning on Ash Wednesday and culminating on Easter, Lent or Cuaresma, is a 40-day period in the liturgical year leading up to Easter, the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The 40 days represent the time that Jesus spent alone in the desert fighting the temptation of the devil before he begins his public ministry. During lent, the events relating to the martyrdom of Jesus Christ ultimately dying on the cross are commemorated through forms of repentance especially during Holy Week (Semana Santa in Spanish and Mahal na Araw in Tagalog). 

Throughout the Mahal na Araw,  Filipinos offer prayers, and sacrifices in observance of this religious tradition. As a way of making amends for their sins, some Filipinos consider walking on the streets barefoot, shirtless, covering their faces with dark cloths while scourging themselves at the back or letting someone do it for them. Some go to the extremes and let themselves be nailed to the wooden cross ( like what Jesus did) using 2-inch stainless steel nails and do it as a sign of penitence. These crucifixions are done in some parts of the country but more popularly in the town of San Pedro, Pampanga, north of Manila and has drawn crowds from all over the world. 

While these strong exhibition of devotion to the Passion of Christ remain as an irrevocable tradition in the Philippines, most Filipinos still prefer observing Lent through prayers, alms giving, fasting, and abstinence from meat.

Fasting or the pag-aayuno is also the most common practice observed even by the Filipinos living abroad. When fasting, a person refrains from eating meat during Lent, eating mostly fish and vegetables--or even nothing at all, reminding him or her to reject the worldly cares of life and follow the selfishness example of God through his son Jesus Christ. 

This Lenten Season, Isla Kulinarya will share with you delicious meatless recipes that you can include in your fasting diet. Don't  miss it!

Isla Kulinarya lets you explore the islands, taste the food, relive the memories--- all made possible by Island Pacific Supermarket. Go and visit an Island Pacific near you with branches in Southern California located at Cerritos, Canoga Park, North and South Vernon in Los Angeles, Panorama City and West Covina; Union City and Vallejo in Northern California. Check out our website at www.islandpacificmarket.com.   "Presyong Sulit...sa Isalnd Pacific."

Ginataang Langka

BICOLANOS take pride not only in their cooking but also in the good traits and values that they have. Owing them mainly to the Spanish influence in the country, Bicolanos have developed  a profound relationship with God and Mother Mary. A deep sense of spirituality is greatly attributed to their strong devotion to the Lady of Penafrancia, their patroness and “Ina.”

Perhaps, it is also because of the Bicolanos' unfaltering faith in God that they are known to be the most enduring types of people, no matter how many natural calamities come their way. Typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions often causes havoc in this region.

Like most Filipinos, Bicolanos are also very welcoming. Their genuine concern for others is rooted in their love and for their families. They also like to engage themselves in conversations and talk about anything under the sun; from the latest news about famous celebrities, to controversial issues in the society and even politics. They often do these as they sit outside their backyard, shredding dried taro leaves that they will use for later for lunch or dinner.

Being family-centered, Bicolanos are often sweet. The guys are known for their extra efforts in wooing the girl they like. Ironically, Bicolanos may be fans of  saccharine romance but they like it wildly hot and spicy when it comes to their favorite ginataan dish.

Among the many favorite Bicolano dish is the Ginataang Langka , like any Bicolano dish, the Ginataang Langka is young jack fruit stewed in coconut milk with shrimp paste and of course, spiced with chili.

Aside from the Ginataang Langka, there are many Bicol dishes that have been considered as Filipino food favorites such as the Bicol Express, Ginataang Laing, and the Pinangat, among others. Not only are these delicacies enjoyed across the country, it is also demanded internationally with the many Filipino migrant workers  longing for zesty Bicolano classics to relieve the experience they have back at home.

 Catch us again next week for another recipe that you'll surely love. Don't miss it!


Ingredients:
1/2 pc           onion, chopped
3 cloves        garlic, chopped
1 1/2 can      coconut milk
2 cans          jackfruit
3 oz              tinapa (smoked fish) approximately 2-3 pcs of boneless smoked fish
5 oz              shrimps
1 pc              tomato, cut in cubes

Method:
1. Saute onion, garlic and shrimp. Add coconut milk. Bring to a boil
2. Add jackfruit. When Jackfruit is tender, add the smoked fish and tomato.
3. Simmer for 10 minutes. Add knorr cubes.
4. Serve

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 15- 20 minutes
Serves 4

Chef Dindo Riforsado

Chef Drif has a long and distinguished career in the culinary arts industry.  He has worked in various upscale restaurants in Los Angeles such as La Defence Restaurant, Kado Japanese & Teppanyaki Restaurant; and Sushiko Kosher Japanese cuisine. He has mastered the art of culinary and has an extensive knowledge on a wide range of International cuisines. Currently, he is a Private Chef catering to private parties and events.