There are days na parang ayoko muna ng karne. Not because I don’t like it — but because my body is simply craving something lighter, cleaner, and warm. And as a mom, you know how it goes: we plan meals around the kids, the budget, the next grocery run… and of course, our energy levels.
Over the past year, I’ve been adding more Filipino plant-based meals to our rotation. Not a full vegetarian lifestyle (hindi ko kakayanin iwan ang crispy pata forever! 😂), but simple everyday dishes that taste familiar, comforting, and sulit.
And surprisingly — the kids love them. Even Twinkle, who usually looks for chicken, started enjoying veggie dishes when I made them creamy and flavorful.
Here are 5 easy Filipino plant-based meals na perfect for busy weekdays:
1. Ginisang Monggo with Ampalaya (No Pork Needed!)
A classic! I grew up eating monggo on Fridays, and now I cook it kapag gusto ko ng something warm and healthy.
I sauté garlic, onions, and tomatoes, add munggo, and simmer. Tapos lots of Ampalaya leaves.
So filling, so comforting — no pork required.
2. Tofu Sisig (Crispy, Creamy, Kid-Approved)
Tuna? Chicken? Nope — this is all tofu!
I air-fry or pan-fry the tofu, chop it, then toss in mayo, calamansi, onions, and a little soy sauce.
Swear — hindi halatang tofu. Even DaddyDoodleDoo said, “Pwede na pang-ulam!”
3. Tortang Talong with Tomato-Onion Salsa
A Filipino classic that’s naturally meatless.
I grill the eggplant, dip in egg, fry, then serve with a fresh salsa to brighten it up.
It feels simple but tastes like home.
4. Pancit Guisado (Veggie-Loaded Version)
Noodles are always a good idea.
I use cabbage, carrots, sayote, and green beans — whatever’s in the ref.
Kids still think it’s “pancit day,” so everyone’s happy.
5. Ginataang Gulay (Kalabasa + Sitaw = Perfect Pair)
There’s something magical about coconut milk.
It transforms simple gulay into something creamy and satisfying.
Sometimes I add tofu cubes for protein — super complete meal na.
Adding plant-based meals doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
Filipino flavors are naturally veggie-friendly, comforting, and easy to cook — perfect for moms who want healthier meals without sacrificing taste.
