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IRA-ID: A Glimpse of Filipino Cuisine’s Diversity

Filipino cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage and history. With its diverse flavors and unique combinations, Filipino food has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. In this culinary journey, we explore one of the lesser-known dishes, “ira-id,” which showcases the ingenuity and creativity of Filipino cooks.

Ira-id is a traditional rice cake dish originating from the Ilonggo region in the Philippines, particularly in the province of Antique. It is often prepared during special occasions like festivals, weddings, or family gatherings. This delectable dessert is made primarily from glutinous rice or malagkit, which is soaked in water and left to ferment overnight. The process of fermentation gives the dish its distinctive taste and aroma.

After the fermentation process, the soaked rice is drained and ground into a fine paste-like consistency. To achieve a silky texture, it is common to add coconut milk or gata, enhancing the flavor and adding a rich creaminess to the dish. The mixture is then poured into banana leaves, which are used to wrap and shape the individual servings. The banana leaves not only give a pleasant aroma but also impart a subtle flavor to the finished product.

Ira-id can be cooked in various ways, either by steaming or boiling. It typically takes several hours to fully cook the rice cakes, but the result is a soft and chewy dessert that melts in your mouth. The rice cakes are often served warm, allowing the flavors to fully develop, and they are commonly enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee.

What sets ira-id apart from other rice cakes is its versatility. While the basic recipe revolves around the use of glutinous rice, coconut milk, and banana leaves, the flavor profile can be modified and customized. Some variations include adding pandan leaves extract, which gives a natural green color and a subtle fragrance. Others add grated coconut or sprinkle the cakes with toasted sesame seeds for added textures and flavors.

The beauty of ira-id lies not only in its taste but also in the sense of tradition and community it represents. Making ira-id is often seen as a collaborative effort, where family members or friends gather to prepare the dish together, sharing stories and laughter. The process creates a bond while honoring ancestral recipes that have been passed down through generations.

As Filipino cuisine gains recognition worldwide, it is important to embrace and celebrate dishes like ira-id for their contribution to the tapestry of flavors found in the Philippines. Each mouthful is a taste of history and a reflection of the ingenuity and creativity of Filipino cooks. Whether enjoyed in the bustling streets of Manila or the quiet countryside of Antique, ira-id represents the essence of Filipino food – diverse, innovative, and deeply rooted in tradition.