Rainy days in the Philippines always make us crave something warm, comforting, and filling. The problem? Grocery prices don’t go on sale just because it’s gloomy outside. That’s why moms are constantly searching for the cheapest ulam ideas for the rainy season—meals that feel like a hug but still stay within budget.
Here’s a list of masarap, tipid, and madaling lutuin rainy-day ulam ideas, all costing under ₱120 per dish. Perfect for families, students, and anyone trying to stretch the weekly grocery budget.
1. Chicken Tinola (Budget Version)
Estimated cost: ₱100–₱150
Tinola is a rainy-season classic for a reason. It’s light, comforting, and incredibly filling.
Why it works:
- Uses affordable chicken cuts
- Sabaw-based, so it stretches well
- Packed with ginger warmth—perfect for cold days
Tip: Add sayote or green papaya to make it even more filling.
2. Ginisang Monggo with Malunggay
Estimated cost: ₱60–₱80
This is one of the cheapest ulam ideas that never fails.
Why moms love it:
- Very budget-friendly
- High in protein and fiber
- Feeds the whole family
Add a few pieces of chicharon or tinapa if you have extra budget.
3. Sardines with Misua
Estimated cost: ₱40–₱60
When it’s raining hard and you want something fast, this one saves the day.
Why it’s perfect for rainy weather:
- Sabaw + noodles = instant comfort
- Cooks in under 15 minutes
- Uses pantry staples
Serve with rice for an extra filling meal.
4. Chicken Adobo sa Asin (Tipid Version)
Estimated cost: ₱100–₱150
Adobo never leaves the top of Filipino comfort food lists.
Why it’s a rainy-day favorite:
- Rich, savory flavor
- Long shelf life (great for meal prep)
- Minimal ingredients
Use chicken legs or cut-ups to stay within budget.
5. Tortang Talong with Ground Pork
Estimated cost: ₱90–₱110
This dish proves that simple ingredients can still be satisfying.
Why it works:
- Eggplant stretches a small amount of meat
- Crispy, savory, and filling
- Kid-friendly
Perfect with ketchup or banana sauce on the side.
6. Tofu Sisig (Budget Comfort Food)
Estimated cost: ₱70–₱100
A great meat-free option that still feels indulgent.
Why it’s a hit:
- Affordable protein
- Crispy and flavorful
- Easy to customize
Serve sizzling hot for maximum comfort vibes.
7. Ginisang Sayote with Sardines
Estimated cost: ₱50–₱70
One of the most underrated rainy-season ulam ideas.
Why moms keep coming back to it:
- Super cheap
- Nutritious and filling
- Stretches a single can of sardines
8. Chicken Lugaw with Egg
Estimated cost: ₱80–₱100
Nothing beats lugaw when it’s raining.
Why it’s perfect:
- Warm and soothing
- Very filling
- Ideal when someone at home feels under the weather
Top with calamansi and fried garlic for extra comfort.
9. Pancit Canton with Gulay and Egg
Estimated cost: ₱90–₱110
A quick, satisfying rainy-day meal.
Why it works:
- Uses pantry staples
- Customizable with veggies
- Feeds many with little cost
10. Misua Soup with Patola and Bola-Bola
Estimated cost: ₱100–₱120
Light but comforting, especially on chilly afternoons.
Why it’s a rainy-season favorite:
- Warm and soothing
- Easy to digest
- Family-friendly
Rainy-Season Tipid Tips for Moms
- Choose sabaw-based dishes to stretch meals
- Combine gulay + small meat portions
- Cook meals that can be reheated the next day
- Always keep eggs, sardines, tofu, and monggo stocked
Rainy days don’t have to mean expensive meals. With the right ingredients and a little planning, you can serve warm, filling ulam under ₱120 that your family will actually enjoy. Comfort food doesn’t have to be costly—it just needs a little creativity.
