Bacolod Chicken Inasal: A Mouth-Watering Delicacy and Cultural Heritage
Bacolod Chicken Inasal is a popular grilled dish originating in Bacolod City, Philippines. It is a signature dish of the city, known for its unique flavor and juicy texture. According to TasteAtlas' Top 50 cuisines for October 2022, the dish has earned fame worldwide and was recently ranked as the fifth finest chicken meal in the world.
The Dish
Chicken chunks are marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, calamansi juice, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and annatto oil to make the dish. The chicken is then roasted over charcoal, giving it a smokey flavor and crisp skin. A dipping sauce consisting of vinegar, soy sauce, calamansi juice, and chili peppers is typically eaten with it and rice.
Where to Try It
The most popular place to try Chicken Inasal in Bacolod is Manokan Country, a food complex specializing in the dish. The traditional cooking method for Chicken Inasal involves grilling the chicken over charcoal, which gives it a unique flavor that cannot be replicated by other cooking methods.
Cultural Heritage
Councilor Ang, in 2022, authored an ordinance declaring Chicken Inasal a cultural property of Bacolod City. This move is part of the city's bid to make Chicken Inasal a cultural heritage recognized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). If approved, the declaration will help establish and boost the city's cultural identity and promote it as a tourist destination.
The certification can also be used by local establishments serving Chicken Inasal to boost their promotion and sales. The dish is a delicious delicacy and a source of pride for Bacolodnons. The city is rich in cultural heritage, and the certification will help preserve and promote its unique cuisine.
Napoleones - Another Bacolod Delicacy
Aside from Chicken Inasal, Bacolod is also known for another popular delicacy - the Napoleones. This pastry dessert is made of layers of flaky puff pastry filled with custard cream and dusted with powdered sugar. It is a favorite pasalubong (gift) for Bacolod visitors to friends and family back home. Remember to order it on your first day in Bacolod for free delivery to your hotel on the day of your flight home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bacolod Chicken Inasal and Napoleones are must-try dishes for anyone visiting Bacolod City. Their unique flavors and cultural significance make them mouth-watering delicacies worth savoring. The city's bid to make Chicken Inasal a cultural heritage and the popularity of Napoleones only add to the city's already substantial appeal.