The Ultimate Guide to Filipino Silog Breakfast

Silog holds a special place in Filipino breakfast culture. It revolves around two essential components: sinangag (garlic rice) and itlog (fried egg). What makes silog truly exciting is its adaptability – it acts as a canvas for a range of protein choices.

Whether you're into tender beef tapa, sweet tocino, or smoky bangus, there is something for everyone. These silog meals are not just limited to breakfast; many enjoy them any time of the day.

Essentials of silog

First things first, what does silog even mean? A silog breakfast is a staple in Filipino cuisine. The name is a portmanteau of the three primary elements that make it a balanced, satisfying meal to start the day:

Sinangag (Fried Rice)

This is the 'si-' in silog. It's essentially garlic fried rice, often made from day-old rice for better texture. It serves as the flavorful base for the rest of the meal, soaking up the flavors from the accompanying protein and egg.

Itlog (Fried Egg)

This is the '-log' in silog. The egg is usually served sunny-side-up, adding a creamy yolk and a firmer white to the texture. It adds a layer of protein, making the meal well-rounded and filling.

Proteins

This variable element completes the silog name. Whether it's 'tapa' for Tapsilog or 'longganisa' for Longsilog, the protein choice adds a special touch to each silog meal. It adds flavor and elevates the dish, making it satisfying for starting your day.

Most popular types of silog

Silog dishes have long been breakfast classics, loved both in the Philippines and beyond. While many variations exist, certain types have consistently remained the most popular, winning over taste buds everywhere.

Tapsilog features Beef Tapa, consisting of beef slices marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic, then pan-fried or grilled. While tapa started as a preservation method, it's now a beloved dish in the Philippines.

Tapsilog, a favorite silog breakfast, is complemented by garlic fried rice and a fried egg. It is commonly served with a vinegar dipping sauce and optional sides like fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and achara.

Longsilog features longganisa—Filipino-style sausages made with a flavorful blend of pork, garlic, and spices. These sausages are enjoyed in various regional variations—some are sweet, some are garlicky, and some are spicy.

Another crowd-favorite, Longsilog comes with garlic fried rice and a fried egg. I used the Bongganisa brand of garlic longganisa from Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, for an authentic Filipino flavor. For those who enjoy homemade cooking, Skinless Longganisa is an option you can prepare at home.

Tocilog or Tosilog features Pork Tocino—sweet cured pork slices known for their signature reddish color from annatto and marinated in a blend of garlic, sugar, and salt. Chicken Tocino is a leaner but equally tasty alternative.

As a standout in the silog breakfast lineup, Tocilog is served with garlic fried rice and a fried egg, capturing the Filipino love for sweet and savory flavors in a single bite. It is enjoyed with a tangy vinegar dipping sauce and optional sides like fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, or achara.

Bangsilog features Bangus—milkfish that's been split open and laid flat, marinated in vinegar and garlic, then pan-fried to a crisp. This method enhances the rich and meaty texture of the fish and adds a satisfying crunch.

As a favorite in the silog breakfast menu, it is served with garlic fried rice and a fried egg. The dish is often savored with a splash of tangy vinegar and sides like fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and achara.

Other silog variations

While the most popular types of silog have a special place in our hearts, these lesser-known combinations are equally delicious. Its versatility guarantees that there's something for everyone.

Hotsilog or Dogsilog (Hotdog, Sinangag, at Itlog)

Hotsilog or Dogsilog features Filipino-style red hotdogs, often enjoyed for their vivid color. This variation is served with garlic fried rice and a fried egg. A side of banana ketchup is a common accompaniment, adding a sweet contrast to the dish.

Dangsilog (Danggit, Sinangag, at Itlog)

Dangsilog features danggit, a type of small rabbitfish that’s been salted and sun-dried, a prized delicacy in Filipino cuisine. This crisp, fried fish pairs well with garlic fried rice and a fried egg. Just like other types of sun-dried fish, also called "buwad," "badi," or "daing," it is best enjoyed with a vinegar dipping sauce.

SPAM is a favorite luncheon meat in the Philippines. It stands for "Spiced Ham," a precooked canned meat product made from chopped pork shoulder meat and ham.

Spamsilog is served with garlic fried rice and a fried egg, providing a quick yet flavorful meal. A splash of vinegar often rounds out this popular dish. Another similar canned luncheon meat called "Ma-ling" may be used, therefore calling the dish "Malingsilog."

Corned beef is a beloved canned meat in Filipino households, typically made from beef brisket cured with salt and spices. It is sautéed with garlic and onions, and sometimes diced potatoes.

Cornsilog is served with garlic fried rice and a fried egg. It is a hearty breakfast option enjoyed by many Filipinos.

Litsilog or Lechonsilog (Lechon Kawali, Sinangag, at Itlog)

Litsilog or Lechonsilog consists of Lechon Kawali, which is fried pork belly boiled until tender, then deep-fried for a satisfying crunch. While not a typical breakfast choice, this variation is enjoyed throughout the day. For a similar taste but healthier approach, try air-frying pork belly.

Tinapasilog (Tinapa, Sinangag, at Itlog)

Tinapasilog brings a unique taste to your morning table. Tinapa is a smoked fish known for its smoky and savory flavors, paired with garlic fried rice and a fried egg. Enjoy it with a side of achara and spiced vinegar, capturing the essence of Filipino comfort food.

Porksilog (Pork Chop, Sinangag, at Itlog)

Porksilog features juicy pork chops fried to golden perfection. The tender meat and crispy exterior provide a delicious contrast for a savory and fulfilling meal. While not the usual breakfast choice, this variation is savored throughout the day.

Bacsilog or Baconsilog (Bacon, Sinangag, at Itlog)

Bacsilog or Baconsilog highlights crispy strips of bacon, with its smoky and salty deliciousness as part of the morning meal. While Filipinos share the same love for bacon as the rest of the world, we have our unique way of enjoying it—paired with rice and egg.

Chiksilog or Noksilog (Fried Chicken, Sinangag, at Itlog)

Chiksilog or Noksilog with crispy fried chicken (pritong manok), garlic-flavored rice, and a sunny-side-up egg. Who can resist the deliciousness of fried chicken? Although not your usual breakfast fare, it sure is a satisfying way to kickstart the day.