5 Must-Try TikTok U.S. Food Trends of 2023: Inspiring Filipino Palates

In the dynamic world of FoodTok, 2023 brought forth a whirlwind of culinary creativity that captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts in Manila. While these food trends initially gained traction in the US, these can inspire Filipino foodies to recreate and infuse their own local flair into these delectable dishes.

On FoodTok, the biggest culinary moments of the year were as inventive as ever, introducing us to new dishes while creatively combining unexpected ingredients. While these trends took root in the US, TikTok has bridged the culinary gap, allowing Filipinos, especially those residing in Manila, to explore and recreate these mouthwatering recipes with a touch of local flavor.

1. Cottage Cheese Everything

One of the standout trends on FoodTok this year was the cottage cheese craze, and @maxiskitchen's Cottage Cheese Ice Cream stole the spotlight. This delightful treat is a game-changer, combining the creaminess of cottage cheese with the rich flavors of cocoa and maple syrup. The brownie chunks add a satisfying crunch, making it a perfect dessert for Manila's hot climate.

Tiktok: @maxiskitchen

Ingredients:

• 16 oz. Full Fat Cottage Cheese
• 1/4 Cup + 1 Tbsp Maple Syrup
• 1/4 Cup + 2 Tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 1/4 Cup Almond Flour
• 1+1/2 Tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 1 Tbsp Maple Syrup
• 1 Tbsp Cashew Butter
• Small Pinch Salt

Procedure:

• Mix brownie chunk ingredients and set aside.
• Blend ice cream ingredients until smooth.
• Pour into a container, sprinkle brownie chunks, and freeze for 4-5 hours.
• Stir every couple of hours for the perfect texture.

Note: For optimal consistency, freeze individual portions daily.

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2. Smash Burger Tacos/Big Mac Tacos

@chilesandsmoke's Smash Burger Tacos took the fusion game to a new level. Seasoned beef, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings in a tortilla – a Manila-friendly twist on classic Mexican flavors and American fast food.

Tiktok: @chilesandsmoke

Procedure:

• Season and cook beef on a hot griddle.
• Press tortilla with a burger press.
• Add cheese, flip, and add toppings.
• Enjoy your flavorful Smash Burger Tacos.

3. Hwachae

@aylennpark's Hwachae is the ultimate summer drink, perfect for Manila's tropical climate. This refreshing concoction combines watermelon, peaches, Korean Chilsung cider, milk, and condensed milk with a burst of frozen blueberries.

Tiktok: @aylennpark

Also read: 5 FISH RECIPES FOR A REFRESHING DINNER

4. Feta Eggs

Inspired by Ali Slagle’s recipe, @graceelkus' Feta Eggs offer a quick and tasty solution for breakfast or brunch. Manila foodies embraced the simplicity and crispiness of this five-minute dish.

Tiktok: @graceelkus

Procedure:

• Heat a small nonstick skillet over medium heat.
• Crumble feta around the perimeter of the skillet.
• Crack an egg into the center of the skillet.
• Season with black pepper and red pepper flakes (no need to add salt, as the feta is plenty salty).
• Cover the pan and cook until the white is set, the yolk is still runny, and the cheese is unbelievably crispy.
• Serve atop toast, with hash browns, or in a charred tortilla with avocado and lime.
• You can oil the skillet, especially if you’re not using nonstick, but the cheese gets crispier without it.

5. Ice Cream Fruit Roll-Up

@golisdream's Ice Cream Fruit Roll-Up is a fun and delicious way to enjoy your favorite ice cream. Simply roll up your preferred ice cream in a fruit roll-up, and you're in for a delightful treat.

Tiktok: @golisdream

Procedure:

• Obtain fruit roll-ups, which you can purchase online or in popular e-commerce platforms like TikTok Shop, Lazada, or Shopee in the Philippines.
• Place your chosen flavor of ice cream on the fruit roll-up.
• Roll the ice cream in the fruit roll-up, creating a tight, delectable spiral.
• Enjoy your Ice Cream Fruit Roll-Up as is or experiment with different ice cream flavors for a variety of tasty combinations.
• With these simple procedures, you can bring the flavors of Feta Eggs and Ice Cream Fruit Roll-Up from TikTok directly to your Manila kitchen. Happy cooking!

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Though we bid farewell to 2023, these TikTok food trends, originating from the US, have transcended borders, inspiring culinary adventures in Manila and beyond. Filipinos are now adding their own twists and flavors to these innovative recipes, making them uniquely theirs. So, grab your ingredients, try these recipes, and embark on a flavor-filled journey through the vibrant world of TikTok food, drawing inspiration from across the seas. Happy cooking!