I grew up in the Philippines. From a young boy of nine helping my father in the kitchen to a seasoned home cook, my life has been a continuous adventure in the culinary world. And it all began with the simple act of preparing ingredients for my dad, a task that sparked a lifelong passion for cooking.
It was at this tender age that my father taught me my very first recipe: a delicious stir-fried pork with basil leaves called “Igado” in Ilocano. That single dish was the seed from which my love for cooking grew.
When my mother passed away when I was nine, I taught myself to butcher, dress, and cook a chicken all by myself.
My culinary journey started in the heart of our home with my dad and extended to the vibrant festivities of our town fiestas and other celebrations. At just 11 years old, I was already immersed in the communal joy of assisting and preparing food ingredients.
Over the years, my passion has only deepened. I take immense pride in cooking the dishes of my heritage. While my roots are firmly planted in Filipino cuisine, I’m also a culinary explorer at heart. I’m always on the lookout for new recipes, techniques, and flavors to learn and master.
I embrace both tradition and innovation in the kitchen, and I have a special fondness for the latest cooking gadgets that make cooking more efficient, healthier, and safer.
For me, cooking is a way to connect with my past, celebrate my present, and a continuous journey to discover new and exciting flavors.
This blog is where I share recipes, cooking tips, hacks, techniques, and skills I’ve picked up over the years.
Today, I’m blessed living in Saipan with my beautiful wife, continuing this journey one dish at a time.
