I get it. Monday to Friday passes in a blink. After work, chores, and everything else life throws at you, cooking can feel like a big task.
That’s why I’ve rounded up 15 easy Filipino ulam recipes that are quick to cook, simple to prepare, and still packed with flavor.
These dishes are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you have chicken, pork, or veggies in the fridge, there’s something here to save dinner without the stress.
15 Easy Pinoy Dinner Ideas
Made with chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves, this dish is rich, tangy, and loaded with bold, savory flavor. The sauce gets better as it simmers, coating the meat in every bite. It’s that one-pot ulam you’ll want to scoop over a steaming plate of rice.
Juicy chicken, soft potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers simmered in a light tomato sauce. The flavors blend into a comforting stew that’s both hearty and easy to make. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like home on a busy weeknight
This creamy, mildly spiced curry is made with chicken, coconut milk, curry powder, and vegetables. The sauce is thick and rich—perfect for spooning over rice. It’s a quick dish with a big flavor that doesn’t need much effort.
Braised in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and a bit of chili, these chicken feet are sticky, flavorful, and fun to eat. The texture is tender and gelatinous, soaked in savory adobo goodness. It’s a crave-worthy ulam especially when you’re in the mood for something different.
Slices of tender chicken and crisp broccoli tossed in a garlicky oyster sauce blend. It’s quick, light, and full of flavor that still hits the spot. A great pick when you want something healthy but satisfying.
Savory, garlicky, and rich pork adobo is made with fatty cuts that soak up all the flavor. The soy-vinegar sauce is bold and comforting, perfect with hot rice. It’s a tried-and-tested favorite for a reason.
Thin slices of pork simmered in soy sauce and calamansi, topped with tender onion rings. The meat stays juicy while the sauce turns tangy and savory. It’s a quick ulam that always delivers.
This dish packs a punch pork belly cooked in sautéed shrimp paste, tomatoes, and a bit of chili. It’s salty, rich, and full of umami that clings to every piece of meat. Perfect when you want something bold and satisfying.
Tender beef is slowly cooked in tomato sauce with potatoes and carrots. The sauce thickens and gets richer with every simmer, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. It’s perfect for nights when you want something cozy and flavorful.
Pork cubes, liver (optional), and hotdogs in a savory-sweet tomato sauce with veggies. Every spoonful is packed with flavor, color, and texture. It’s great for meal prep and even better the next day.
Nutty mung beans simmered with pork, garlic, and tomatoes until thick and hearty. It’s earthy, comforting, and pairs perfectly with fried fish or crunchy chicharon. A healthy choice that still feels like a treat.
Simple and tasty sautéed cabbage cooked with garlic, onions, and bits of meat. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and surprisingly satisfying. This dish turns a humble veggie into something crave-worthy.
A colorful mix of crisp vegetables, meat, and shrimp in a light, savory sauce. Every bite is fresh and flavorful with just the right amount of crunch. It’s the kind of healthy dish that doesn’t feel like a sacrifice.
A light broth filled with squash, okra, eggplant, and pork slices. The veggies stay fresh while the broth gets richer with every simmer. It’s clean, tasty, and perfect for a reset meal.
Soft bottle gourd cooked with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and pork bits. The flavors are mild and comforting, perfect with warm rice and patis on the side. A simple veggie dish that’s far from boring.
