Lifestyle & Culture

Maranao ‘palapa’ is the new Filipino condiment to watch

Palapa — a mixture of sakurab (white scallions), ginger, and native chili — is a staple of every meal in the provinces of Lanao. Typically served with rice and viands, or as an appetizer, this Maranao condiment can also be found in humble eateries and restaurants of the region.

It is often the heart of many spicy Maranao dishes such as the chicken piaparan, a traditional stew that uses palapa as the main spice along with turmeric and coconut milk.

Aside from bringing flavor to Maranao kitchens, palapa has also opened up opportunities for social entrepreneurship.

More than a condiment

Palapa sa Lumba is one example of a livelihood project that stems from the region’s love for the condiment. The project gathers mothers and out-of-school youth volunteers from the municipality of Lumba Bayabao, a town 30 minutes south of Marawi.

It aims to build a business around palapa-making, and bring the dish to a bigger market while uplifting their lives.

Jai Sapiin, project head of Palapa sa Lumba, said they were ridiculed when they were just starting. However, this didn’t stop them from making and selling palapa. The group targeted restaurants in Marawi City and nearby towns to sell their products.

Nakabili kami ng machine. Dati puro manual, dikdik lang talaga. ‘Yung mga gamit dati, puro personal na mga panluto (We were able to buy a machine. In the past, we had to grind all the ingredients with a mortar and pestle and use our personal pots and pans).”

Maranao 'palapa' is the new Filipino condiment to watch

Eventually, they gained support from organizations like Ayala Foundation, Inc. The project also received additional funding and support from the #ForMindanao program.

Through the aid of these groups, Palapa sa Lumba has been able to grow their operations. The initiative has also inspired other communities to start their own palapa enterprises — a great way to promote the culture and food in Lanao del Sur.

via ABS-CBN News / Kara Santos

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