The Lenten season is an important part of Filipino culture. Since the Philippines is primarily a Catholic country, most Filipinos celebrate this religious holiday.
They do so by visiting different churches or going to popular Holy Week destinations around the country. Some people also commemorate the Lenten season by staying at home with their families and praying or watching religious movies together. Others also choose this season to take a break from their busy lives and unwind with friends and family across the country.
However, one of the most popular practices during Holy Week is abstaining from meat. This is done during Good Friday, which is the day the Bible said that Jesus died on the cross.
Devout Catholics avoid eating meat during this day because it is seen as a celebratory food. Doing this shows the commemoration of Jesus’ sacrifice of his flesh for us on Good Friday.
Lenten-Friendly Dishes to Serve During Holy Week
It might be challenging for some to abstain from eating meat during the Lenten season. But because it’s part of the Filipino tradition, you must be encouraged to do the same.
Fortunately, your meals don’t have to be unpleasant just because you can’t eat meat. You can still serve Lenten-friendly dishes to your loved ones and have them enjoy their food.
Salted Egg Prawns
Salted Egg Prawns is a delicious seafood dish that can be enjoyed during Lent. This Lenten recipe features succulent prawns coated in a flavorful salted egg yolk mixture and crispy fried to perfection. It is a great alternative to meat dishes and can be served with steamed rice or vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tofu Mushroom Cauli Sisig
Tofu Mushroom Cauli Sisig is a delicious and Lenten-friendly dish that is perfect for those who observe Lent. It is made with tofu, mushrooms, and cauliflower, all of which are meat-free ingredients. This food idea for Lent is a healthier and more sustainable alternative to traditional meat-based sisig, making it a great option for those who want to reduce their meat consumption during the Lenten season.
Crispy Prawn Cakes
Commemorating Holy Week doesn’t mean that you should deprive yourself of Lenten cravings. You can still have your favorite Thai food while observing Lent by having MBKK’s Crispy Prawn Cakes. They are made of finely chopped prawns in Tom Yum paste and served with sweet chili and Thai nam phrik sauce.
Manam’s Dagat at Gulay Paboritos
If you don’t want to cook at home, you can always order from your favorite restaurant. One of the best Lenten meal ideas you can enjoy with your family is Manam’s dagat at gulay paboritos. This tasty selection includes the House Tofu Sisig (starts at P160), a healthy but hearty take on Manam’s classic House Crispy Sisig made of fried tofu cubes doused in a meatless version of Manam’s secret sisig sauce, and topped with fried okra, scallions, and fresh green chillies for an extra kick.
