Known for its vivid flavor, the chicken inasal is one of Bacolod City’s signature dishes and a cultural representation of the charm of the City of Smiles.
The inasal, a Hiligaynon term meaning “skewered,” or “grilled,” gets its unique flavor and golden-brown color from the marinating process, which involves mixing vinegar, calamansi, garlic, lemongrass, ginger, and annatto oil, drawing both local and foreign tourists with its smoky aroma while grillers heat up the charcoal and basting sauce.
This popular grilled dish traces its origin throughout Bacolod’s bustling street food scene. It was first experienced in the 1970s as a quick and reasonably-priced lunch option that was well-liked by drivers and commuters who frequent the area surrounding the Bacolod City Public Plaza. Over time, the neighborhood around the Public Plaza became known as “Chicken Alley,” and later, “Manokan Country,” as an ode to its function as the center for this tasty specialty, and a cultural shift for the beloved dish to become a mainstream staple.
The chicken inasal is a classic Filipino comfort food that stands out for its adventurous taste and simplicity.
Those who have experienced its tanginess will say that it complements well with garlic rice drizzled with chicken oil, and accompanied by condiments like soy sauce mixed with calamansi and, of course, with the famous Sinamak – a dipping sauce made from vinegar and wild chili. It is a mainstay during family get-togethers, festivities, and even on normal days; its comforting flavor and social indulgence make it perfect for sharing over cold soda or beer for that added table talk.
With the emergence of other restaurant chains like Mang Inasal, this grilled chicken dish rose to national and international prominence, a status symbol that went beyond just being Bacolod City’s go-to attraction. Since then, its popularity has moved overseas, garnering acclaim as one of the best chicken recipes in the world.
TasteAtlas, a global database of traditional foods and genuine restaurants, published an article on October 16 that gave the Bacolod chicken inasal an amazing 4.5-star rating. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCAA) acknowledged it as the cultural treasure of Bacolod City, thanks to Councilor Em Legaspi-Ang, who authored an Ordinance declaring the chicken inasal a cultural property of Bacolod City.
The popularity of chicken inasal emphasizes the importance of honoring and preserving regional cuisine. As more people appreciate the food, it serves as an emblem of the rich history and inventiveness of Filipino culture.
Throughout the years, the chicken inasal became a cultural treasure and a heritage cuisine. The Legaspi-Ang-authored Ordinance not only stamped its status as a worldwide name but a guarantee that its legacy would be maintained and carried by future generations.
References:
- https://leonesnapoleones.com/blogs/bacolod-travel-guide/bacolod-chicken-inasal-a-mouth-watering-delicacy-and-cultural-heritage
- https://www.bacolodlifestyle.com/savor-bacolod-home-to-world-class-chicken-inasal/#google_vignette
- https://www.tastingtable.com/1024349/chicken-inasal-the-robust-filipino-street-food-you-should-know
- https://itsforkandspoon.com/easy-bacolod-chicken-inasal-grill-oven-or-air-
- https://www.simpol.ph/localife/chicken-inasal
