Image by Tom Fejér

Nilasing na hipon

As any true aficionado of Filipino cuisine knows, nilasing na hipon is the absolute apex of seafood delicacies. A giant tiger prawn marinated in a tantalizingly spicy and sour sauce imbued with just the right amount of coconut milk and chili peppers to bring out its succulently sweet flavor, it surely is a delectable dish for anyone with an appetite for culinary excellence.

Nilasing na hipon


The flavor profile of this dish is truly remarkable. The subtle yet bold notes of garlic and ginger, the slight kick of heat from the chili peppers, and the soothing hint of coconut all competently coalesce to create a dish that will leave even the most jaded palate genuinely astonished. And with the deep amber color of the sauce, every bite of the prawns just seems to be vibrantly alive.

What's even more remarkable is that preparing such a dish isn't as daunting of a task as one might think. All that really is required is the proper selection of ingredients and a deft culinary touch. With the freshness of the prawns, the abundance of local spices, and just the right amount of leverage against the fire of the stove, you'll be able to concoct a masterful rendition of this beloved dish.

And as if that wasn't enough, the presentation of this dish is just as exquisite. The contrast between the vibrant orange-red sauce and the perfectly cooked prawns makes for an appetizing sight, and it's not hard to imagine why it is so widely sought after.

Let's sum it up: the flavor, the preparation, and the presentation of nilasing na hipon come together to make one of the most exquisite dishes in Filipino cuisine, and it's not hard to see why. With its complex yet harmonious flavors and captivating appearance, nilasing na hipon is the quintessential seafood delicacy!

The origin of Nilasing na hipon

Nilasing na hipon, or Nilasing for short, is a popular Filipino dish that has its roots in the country's rich culture and history. The name “Nilasing” translates directly to “marinated shrimp”, and it’s no surprise that this piquant delicacy has been around since pre-colonial times.

It has long been thought that the recipe was first developed by the Spanish during their occupation of the Philippines. At one point, Nilasing would have been prepared with marinated fish, as the majority of Filipinos at that time were devout Catholics unable to eat meat on certain religious days. While the ingredients have changed over the centuries, the principle remains the same: marinating shrimp in a flavorful concoction.

The traditional recipe for Nilasing requires the shrimp to be marinated in a mix of vinegar, garlic, onion, pepper, and vegetable oil. After the shrimp is left in the mixture for a few hours, it is then fried until golden-brown until crispy. Often served as an appetizer, Nilasing has become a favorite among homes, restaurants, and even street-side stalls throughout the country.

Nilasing is one of many dishes in Filipino cuisine that have managed to retain their identity despite numerous cultural shifts. It is truly remarkable how such a simple dish has been able to make its way into the hearts and bellies of Filipinos all over the world, with its delightful blend of sweetness, saltiness, and umami flavors.

No matter where you find it, the unmistakable taste of Nilasing is guaranteed to leave you feeling satisfied. Its intriguingly flavorful combination of ingredients is sure to spark convivial conversations at the dinner table, so next time you’re looking to take your meal to the next level, look no further than this beloved Filipino classic.

FAQs about Nilasing na hipon

How long does shrimp take to fry?

Fried shrimp typically take 3-5 minutes to cook.


How to cook little shrimp?

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add in a pinch of salt and a few drops of oil.

2. Add the shrimp to the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they become slightly pink.

3. Remove from heat and place in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

4. Serve as desired, either hot or cold. Enjoy!


What is hipon made of?

Hipon is a Filipino dish featuring shrimp cooked in garlicky butter. It usually includes garlic, butter, and onions, as well as additional ingredients such as tomato sauce, vinegar, soy sauce, pepper, and lemon juice.


Why do you add cornstarch to shrimp?

Cornstarch is often used as a thickening agent in recipes that call for cooked shrimp. It helps to thicken the liquid ingredients and give the dish a creamier texture. The cornstarch also helps to create a coating on the outside of the shrimp, which makes them crispier when cooked.


Types of Nilasing na hipon

Nilasing na hipon, or "stewed shrimp" in English, is a succulent and savory delicacy that is popular in the Philippines. It has a distinctively piquant flavor that can be attributed to the combination of marinated shrimp and several tantalizing seasonings.

This delectable dish has many variations, each one as unique as the next. The most common type of nilasing na hipon is cooked with vinegar and garlic. The acidic tang of the vinegar gives the dish its characteristic sourness, while the fragrant aroma of the garlic adds depth and complexity. For an extra spicy kick, some cooks add chili peppers to the mix.

Another popular version of this dish is nilasing na hipon sa gata, wherein coconut milk is used instead of vinegar. This subtle change in ingredients yields a milder flavor, but maintains the same pungent essence. To enhance the flavor further, some cooks add ginger, onions, and tomatoes to the mix.

For those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds, there is nilasing na hipon sa asim. In this take on the classic, vinegar and coconut milk are both used to achieve a pleasant balance of tart and sweet. The addition of calamansi or lemon juice gives the dish an extra zing.

Finally, for the health conscious, there is nilasing na hipon ala pobre. This variation is prepared without any sauces or added flavors; the sweetness and savoriness comes solely from the shrimp, carefully simmered in hot water until it is perfectly tender and succulent.

No matter what version you choose, nilasing na hipon is sure to delight even the most discerning palate. There’s something to be said for the timeless appeal of this classic Filipino dish!