5 Must-Try Food Delicacies from Iligan City

Food is more than just something to eat but it is also a part of the culture and history of a place. If you’re visiting Iligan City, here are five must-try foods that will give you a taste of the city’s unique flavors.

1. Cheding’s Peanuts

What It Is: Locally made peanuts that are roasted to perfection, giving them a crunchy texture and lightly salted taste.

Why It’s Special: A favorite pasalubong (souvenir treat), Cheding’s Peanuts have been loved by locals and tourists for decades because of their simple yet addictive flavor.

Where to Get It: You can buy them at Cheding’s store in Iligan City or in pasalubong centers.

Pro Tip: These peanuts make a great snack or gift for family and friends.

2. Lechon Baka

What It Is: Slow roasted beef with a crispy outside and juicy, flavorful meat inside, marinated with special spices.

Why It’s Special: A star of Iligan’s big celebrations and fiestas, this dish is a must-try during special occasions.

Where to Get It: Check out CowCha Lechon Baka or other local lechon houses.

Pro Tip: Enjoy it with spicy vinegar or liver sauce for the best experience.

3. Iligan City’s Halang-Halang

What It Is: A spicy coconut based chicken soup that is creamy, savory, and has a bit of heat.

Why It’s Special: “Halang” means “spicy” in Cebuano, and this dish is a favorite comfort food for many locals.

Where to Get It: Found in carinderias (small eateries) and home kitchens.

Pro Tip: Eat it with rice and a cold drink to balance the spice.

4. Pater with Randang

What It Is: Turmeric rice topped with randang, a slow cooked beef dish made with coconut milk and spices.

Why It’s Special: This Maranao dish is a popular and affordable meal in Iligan, loved for its delicious taste and convenience.

Where to Get It: Available in many pater stalls, especially in the Pala-o and Tibanga areas.

Pro Tip: Eat with your hands for the most authentic experience.

5. Suka Pinakurat

What It Is: A spiced vinegar made from fermented coconut sap mixed with chili, garlic, and other spices, giving it a tangy and spicy flavor.

Why It’s Special: Born in Iligan, Pinakurat vinegar is now popular all over the Philippines, adding extra flavor to many dishes.

Where to Get It: Sold in supermarkets and pasalubong stores in Iligan.

Pro Tip: Use it as a dipping sauce for grilled meat, seafood, or lechon for an extra tasty kick.

Final Thoughts

Iligan City has a rich and diverse food culture, and these five delicacies are just a small taste of what it has to offer. Whether you’re a foodie or just love trying new dishes, make sure to check these out.

Image credit: Fev's Diner