What are the foods of early Filipinos?

The diet of early Filipinos, before the arrival of foreign influences, was largely based on what was available in their environment:

1. Staple Foods:

* Rice: Was already cultivated in the Philippines at least 2,000 years ago. Different varieties were grown, including glutinous rice (for sweets and cakes), and brown rice.

* Root Crops: Sweet potatoes, taro, yams, and cassava were important staples, especially in areas where rice cultivation was difficult.

* Fruits: A wide range of fruits were available and eaten, including mangoes, bananas, papayas, guavas, citrus fruits, and many others.

2. Protein Sources:

* Fish and Seafood: The Philippines being an archipelago, fishing was a primary source of protein. This included fish, shellfish, and crustaceans.

* Meat: While hunting was practiced, it was not a major source of protein. Some animals hunted included wild boar, deer, and birds.

* Insects: Some groups consumed insects as a source of protein.

* Eggs: Birds' eggs were collected and eaten.

3. Vegetables:

* Greens: Leafy vegetables like alugbati, ampalaya, and malunggay were common.

* Beans: Mung beans and soybeans were used in various dishes.

4. Spices and Seasonings:

* Ginger, turmeric, garlic, and pepper were used to flavor dishes.

* Salt: Was obtained from seawater or salt springs.

5. Drinks:

* Water: The primary drink.

* Coconut water: Was a refreshing and nutritious beverage.

* Palm wine: Was fermented from the sap of palm trees.

Cooking Techniques:

* Boiling: The most common method.

* Roasting: Food was roasted over an open fire.

* Grilling: Food was grilled on skewers.

* Steaming: Some food was steamed in bamboo containers.

Important Note:

The diet of early Filipinos varied significantly depending on the region, the climate, and the specific local resources available. It's essential to understand that our knowledge about their diet is pieced together from archaeological evidence, anthropological studies, and traditional practices that have survived to this day.