Traditional Foods of Ilokanos

Abstract

This study aimed to discover the traditional foods of Ilokanos in the Province of Ilocos Sur. Employing a phenomenological design, in-depth interview with 27 elders, and triangulated by observations was conducted. The study found out that Ilokanos, from all walks of life, still embraced the importance of traditional foods such as buga, karot, ballaiba, papait, and tabtaba. These foods served as rice substitutes, especially in crisis times, believing these have nutritious values to satisfy daily energy requirements. Ilokanos practice easy ways to prepare these traditional foods for consumption. The traditional foods for Ilokanos are seasonal, the community knows how to preserve for future utilization to be appreciated by the next generation. These important traditional foods are unknown to the younger generation because they are already endangered due to pollution, and abuse, and are seldom served during social gatherings. The researcher recommended that in-depth studies be undertaken to explore other opportunities and future research about the nutritional components of these traditional foods.