Filipino favourites arroz caldo, lugaw and champorado among TasteAtlas’ best porridges in the world

Dubai: Comfort food in the Philippines just earned international attention. Three well-loved porridges, arroz caldo, lugaw and champorado, have been named among the world’s 50 best by the Croatia-based food website TasteAtlas.

Leading the pack is arroz caldo, which took second place with a 4.3-star rating. This savoury rice porridge is simmered in a ginger-rich broth and usually topped with scallions, garlic chips and a splash of calamansi.

"Although congee is originally Chinese, this particular variety is believed to have been developed and adapted to suit the tastes of the large Spanish community that was present in the country during colonial times. This comforting rice dish is usually enjoyed as a filling breakfast or a satisfying midday meal." Taste Atlas said.

Lugaw followed in ninth place with 4.1 stars. Warm, soft and easy to eat, it is often served to those feeling under the weather, though its appeal goes far beyond the sickbed. Cooks often enrich it with chicken, ginger and lemon, then finish it with toppings such as eggs, garlic chips and calamansi or fish sauce.

Rounding out the trio is champorado at number 19 with 3.9 stars. This sweet chocolate rice porridge is a descendant of the Mexican drink champurrado, introduced during colonial times. Today, it is made with glutinous rice, sugar and cocoa, served hot or cold, often drizzled with condensed milk or paired with salted dried fish.

These porridges are a true taste of home for many Filipinos. The recognition shines a light on the country’s rich food heritage and its gift for turning humble ingredients into dishes that bring warmth and comfort.

TasteAtlas based its rankings on verified user reviews, giving more weight to ratings from food enthusiasts recognized by the platform. The list is designed to spotlight beloved traditional dishes and inspire people to try flavors from different corners of the world.