Simbang Gabi, the cherished nine-day dawn mass tradition, is not only about faith but also about enjoying the special foods that come with it. Early mornings are made brighter with warm, comforting, and sweet Filipino delicacies that have become a holiday tradition. From rice cakes to hot drinks, these treats are perfect after attending the misa de gallo.
Puto Bumbong: A Purple Treat
Puto bumbong is a steamed purple rice cake made from pirurutong rice. It is served with butter or margarine, grated coconut, and muscovado sugar. Some variations add cheese on top, creating a sweet and slightly salty flavor combination. This colorful delicacy brings warmth and festive cheer to the early morning celebrations.
Bibingka: The Classic Rice Cake
Bibingka is a spongy rice cake baked in clay pots lined with banana leaves. It is topped with salted egg, cheese, and coconut. Its soft texture and rich toppings make it a favorite during the chilly mornings of Simbang Gabi. Bibingka is comforting and festive, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Sikwate: Thick and Rich Hot Chocolate
Sikwate is a traditional Filipino hot chocolate made from tablea or pure cacao tablets. Thick, rich, and slightly bitter, it balances the sweetness of rice cakes like puto bumbong and bibingka. A warm cup of sikwate adds a cozy and indulgent touch to the Simbang Gabi experience.
Taho: Sweet Soy Delight
Taho is a soft, warm snack made from silken tofu, arnibal (sweet syrup), and sago pearls. It is commonly sold by vendors in the early morning and is perfect for enjoying right after attending Simbang Gabi. Its gentle sweetness and comforting texture make it a simple yet satisfying choice.
Lugaw: Comfort in a Bowl
Lugaw is a rice porridge known for its warmth and soothing qualities, similar to chicken soup. It is often served to sick people but is also a popular Simbang Gabi food because of its hearty and comforting nature. Making lugaw at home is easy and allows for a homemade touch to the festive mornings.
Enjoying the Tradition
The foods of Simbang Gabi are more than just snacks, they are a celebration of Filipino culture, warmth, and togetherness. From sweet rice cakes to comforting porridge, these dishes make early mornings memorable and cozy. Sharing them with loved ones makes the holiday season even more special.
