Top 5 Seafood Picks in the Philippines That Every Home Cook Should Try
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Seafood has always been at the heart of Filipino cuisine. From fiesta tables to everyday ulam, seafood delivers that rich, savory flavor Filipinos love. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a weekend cook, these top seafood to cook at home will instantly level up your meals.
Let’s dive into the top 5 seafood picks in the Philippines that every home cook should try and where to get them fresh or frozen without leaving your house.
1. Shrimp (Hipon)
Best shrimp recipe Philippines search results always show dishes like garlic butter shrimp, “sinigang na hipon” and tempura. Shrimp is easy to cook, flavorful and incredibly versatile. You can steam it, fry it or sauté it in butter and garlic, a favorite among Filipino home cooks.
Shrimp is a must-try seafood in the Philippines because of its versatility, rich flavor, and cultural significance in Filipino cuisine. It's widely loved for being easy to cook and quick to prepare, making it a popular choice for both everyday ulam and special celebrations. Shrimp is also a nutritious protein source, packed with essential vitamins and minerals while being low in fat and calories. Available fresh or frozen in wet markets and seafood stores across the country, shrimp remains a staple in Filipino kitchens for its taste, convenience and adaptability in a wide variety of recipes.
2. Chilean Mussels (Tahong)
Chilean mussels are becoming an increasingly popular seafood pick in the Philippines, and for good reason. Known for their plump, juicy meat and slightly sweet, briny flavor, Chilean mussels are a premium ingredient that adds a touch of elegance to everyday dishes. They’re often used in garlic butter recipes, seafood pasta, soups and even Filipino-style baked mussels (baked tahong), offering both flavor and nutrition in every bite. Packed with protein, iron and omega-3 fatty acids, they are not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Thanks to their availability in frozen form, Chilean mussels are easy to store and prepare, making them a convenient option for home cooks. Their impressive size, rich taste, and versatility in cooking make Chilean mussels a must-try for seafood lovers in the Philippines.
3. Salmon
Salmon is considered one of the top seafood picks in the Philippines for its rich flavor, impressive health benefits, and growing popularity among health-conscious consumers. Known for its vibrant orange color and buttery texture, salmon is incredibly versatile, perfect for grilling, baking, pan-searing or using in dishes like sushi, poke bowls and creamy pasta. It’s also a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B12 and D, making it excellent for heart and brain health. While it’s a premium option compared to local fish, frozen Salmon is now more accessible through specialty seafood stores and online shops. Its luxurious taste, nutritional value and ease of preparation make salmon a must-try for Filipinos looking to elevate their seafood meals at home.
4. Squid (Pusit)
Squid is a must-try in the Philippines because of its unique texture, savory flavor, and its starring role in many beloved Filipino dishes. Whether grilled as inihaw na pusit, cooked adobo-style as adobong pusit, or stuffed and fried, squid offers a deliciously chewy bite that absorbs rich, bold flavors perfectly. It’s a popular choice in Filipino households and seaside eateries, thanks to its quick cooking time and ability to elevate simple meals into something special. Squid is also rich in protein, low in fat, and a good source of vitamins and minerals like B12 and phosphorus. Easily found in wet markets and seafood sections across the country, squid is both affordable and versatile, making it a must-try for anyone who wants to experience the depth and variety of Filipino seafood cuisine.
5. Golden Pompano
Golden Pompano is a must-try in the Philippines because of its delicate, buttery flavor and tender, juicy meat that’s prized by many Filipino home cooks and chefs. Often referred to as a premium fish, Golden Pompano is perfect for steaming, grilling, or baking and it beautifully absorbs sauces and seasonings like soy sauce, calamansi and ginger.
Despite its upscale taste and texture, Golden Pompano remains reasonably priced and widely available in wet markets and seafood stores across the country. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying option for family meals. Its smooth, almost boneless flesh and elegant presentation make pampano a favorite for both everyday dining and special occasions, earning its place as a must-try seafood in Filipino cuisine.
Where to Buy Fresh Frozen Seafood Online in the Philippines
Not sure where to buy? Skip the wet market hassle. Today, many local shops offer fresh frozen seafood delivered in the Philippines. Look for reliable seafood suppliers in Metro Manila who offer vacuum-sealed and cleaned options, ready for your next meal.
You can also search “seafood delivery near me” to find sellers in your area offering fast and affordable delivery options.
Being a Filipino home cook doesn’t have to be hard, especially when you have access to high-quality, delicious seafood. Whether you're craving a quick shrimp dish or a slow-cooked squid stew, these top seafood to cook at home will never disappoint. They're popular, affordable, and packed with flavor.
So go ahead, explore these Filipino seafood dishes and bring the taste of the sea to your kitchen!