There are two types of tourists: a) the herded tourists who go with whatever their tour operator arranges for them; and b) the discriminate traveler who explores secret nooks and crannies in search for that unique gem. The first type has a relatively easier life as there is a plethora of information available on arranged tours. However, the second type of traveler requires more research in order to satisfy his wanderlust. Here is a list of exotic food finds in Cebu that all the Andrew Zimmerns must try:
- Tuslob Buwa – Tuslob buwa is a cheap fare that can be found on the streets of Cebu, often peddled on bicycles with cart. Pork brain, liver and spices are boiled in a pan, where puso (rice steamed in banana leaf) is then dipped into the froth.
- Dugo-dugo – In Mabolo, an eatery offers dugo-dugo, an exotic soup of pig blood cubes, intestines, kidney, liver and heart. This one of a kind delicacy is sure to invigorate the senses of even the weariest traveler.
- Ginabot – The Philippines is ingenious in not wasting any part of the animal by featuring it in different, unique dishes. Take for example the ginabot, deep-fried pork innards seasoned with spices, often dipped in vinegar, chilies and onions. Ice-cold beer is the best accompaniment to this dish. Ginabot is most popular in barangay Mabolo, in an eatery fondly called by locals as high-blood station, a word play on the high-cholesterol content of the store’s fare.
- Lansiao (bull’s or horse’s genitals soup) – The Cebuano’s take on Soup #5, lansiao is believed to be an aphrodisiac. Bull’s or horse’s genitals are boiled slowly in a nutty, tomato-based soup that can be spiced according to taste. Street food stalls, called locally as carinderia, of Mandaue City are known for this special soup.
- Goat’s Head Caldereta – A goat’s entire head is boiled in a savory tomato-based soup. What makes this dish so sought-after is the brain, which is considered the tastiest part of the animal.
- Turtle Soup – Paolito’s Seafood House on Orchid Street, Capitol Site, Cebu City offers turtle soup, the star ingredient of which may come chopped or whole.
- Adobong Sawa – Adobo is considered the Philippines’ national dish, meat carefully boiled in soy sauce, vinegar and spices. What makes adobong sawa special is the use of snake, instead of the common pork or chicken.
