
Candle Festival: Shines with Tradition and Devotion in Candelaria
This celebration of the “Candle Festival” takes place from the 31st of January to the 2nd of February each year and is held in order
If there’s one local delicacy that defines the town of Lucban, Quezon, it’s the unmistakably bold and garlicky Lucban Longganisa. This native sausage isn’t just a breakfast staple—it’s a culinary symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and the town’s rich heritage. Unlike the sweet longganisa varieties found in other parts of the Philippines, Lucban Longganisa stands out with its strong garlic flavor, tangy vinegar kick, and the perfect balance of salt and spices.
Lucban Longganisa belongs to the “de recado” (savory) type of longganisa, meaning it’s packed with spices rather than being sweetened. What sets it apart is its generous use of garlic and pimenton, also known as paprika or annatto, which gives it that signature deep-orange color. The sausages are also slightly tangy due to the natural fermentation process, making them more flavorful and aromatic when cooked.
The local recipe follows a traditional process that has been passed down for generations. It typically includes ground pork with a good ratio of lean meat and fat to ensure juiciness. Garlic is used in abundance, giving the longganisa its pungent and savory flavor. Vinegar adds tang and serves as a natural preservative, while salt and black pepper enhance the meaty taste. Pimenton or achuete contributes to its distinct reddish hue, and natural hog casings encase the sausage, giving it an authentic, rustic touch. The mixture is hand-stuffed into casings, tied with small knots to form bite-sized links, then hung to dry for a short period to develop its distinct taste.
Lucban Longganisa is best cooked “tostado-style,” fried to a crispy, golden-brown perfection. When pan-fried, it releases an irresistible aroma that instantly whets the appetite. It is traditionally served with sinangag, or garlic fried rice, to complement its bold flavor. A fried egg is often added, turning it into the classic “Longsilog” meal. The best way to enjoy it is with a dipping sauce of sukang Lucban, a spiced vinegar that enhances its tangy and garlicky profile.
Aside from being a breakfast favorite, Lucban Longganisa can also be used as an ingredient in pasta, pizza toppings, or even fried rice stir-fries, adding a local twist to familiar dishes. Some even enjoy it as a snack, skewered and grilled over charcoal, much like a barbecue.
Lucban is widely known for its Pahiyas Festival, a vibrant harvest celebration held every May 15 in honor of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. During this festival, Lucban Longganisa is prominently displayed in homes and food stalls, alongside the town’s famous pancit habhab, a stir-fried noodle dish eaten without utensils. Visitors flock to Lucban to indulge in these delicacies, making longganisa an essential part of the town’s cultural identity.
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When visiting Lucban, the best place to buy freshly made longganisa is at the Lucban Public Market, where local vendors sell bundles of these sausages. Another well-known source is Eker & Ely’s, a brand recognized for its authentic Lucban Longganisa. For those who want to experience Lucban’s flavors in a restaurant setting, Buddy’s Restaurant serves longganisa along with other Quezon specialties. For those who cannot travel to Lucban, some online sellers and specialty stores in Metro Manila offer Lucban Longganisa for delivery, ensuring that this Quezon delicacy is accessible to food lovers everywhere.
Lucban Longganisa is more than just a sausage—it’s a flavorful piece of Quezon’s history and culture. With every bite, you get a taste of the town’s culinary artistry, passed down through generations. Whether paired with garlic rice or enjoyed as a savory snack, it is a must-try for any food lover exploring the rich flavors of the Philippines. The next time you visit Lucban, don’t forget to take home a bundle of this garlicky goodness. It’s a taste of tradition that you’ll want to savor long after you leave.
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