Exploring the Delicious World of Pigar-Pigar: Dagupan’s Iconic Street Food

Pigar-pigar is a staple street food in Dagupan City, Philippines that has been enjoyed by locals and tourists alike for many years. This dish is famous for its unique preparation method, which involves deep-frying the main ingredient – slices of carabao meat – along with cabbage and onions. While this cooking method may be considered unhealthy by some, it remains a beloved traditional dish that is widely enjoyed in the city.

The carabao meat used in Pigar-pigar is seasoned with salt and pepper, giving it a savory flavor that is complemented by the crunch of the deep-fried vegetables. For those who want an extra boost of flavor, liver is sometimes added to the meat mixture. The dish is typically served with rice and is a popular option for those looking for a quick and satisfying meal on-the-go.

The name “Pigar-pigar” is derived from the Pangasinan language and means “turning over.” This refers to the constant turning of the meat during the quick deep-frying process, which is crucial to ensure that the dish is evenly cooked and has a crispy texture. The process of deep-frying the meat, cabbage, and onions may be considered unhealthy, but it is the traditional method of preparing the dish, and the end result is a delicious and satisfying meal that is enjoyed by many.

In some parts of the country, carabao meat is not readily available, and beef is often used as a substitute in this recipe. The beef is seasoned in the same way as the carabao meat, and the result is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of whether carabao meat is available in their area.