Lugaw: Plain Filipino Rice Porridge
Lugaw is a plain rice porridge cooked until soft and creamy, then topped with fried garlic, spring onions and a squeeze of calamansi. It is a gentle comfort food and the base for arroz caldo and goto.
About Lugaw
Lugaw is plain Filipino rice porridge, topped with fried garlic, spring onions and calamansi. It is a gentle comfort food and the base for arroz caldo and goto. It is eaten for breakfast, as a snack and when feeling unwell.
Lugaw is the base of Filipino rice porridges such as arroz caldo and goto. It is plain, gentle and comforting, and it is customary to eat it when someone is not feeling well. The toppings turn it into a full meal.
Ingredient notes
- Jasmine and glutinous rice: together they make a creamy porridge.
- Ginger: gives a light, warming aroma.
- Fish sauce: seasons the porridge.
- Fried garlic and spring onions: the classic toppings.
Tips for the best Lugaw
- Add water as needed. For consistency.
- Top generously. With garlic and onions.
What to serve with Lugaw
Serve with toppings.
Variations and substitutions
- Arroz caldo: see Arroz Caldo.
- With egg: add an egg.
- Tokwa't baboy: see Tokwa't Baboy.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Stir in hot water or broth when reheating.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between lugaw and arroz caldo?
Arroz caldo has chicken and ginger.
Can I add chicken?
Yes. That makes it arroz caldo.
How thick should it be?
Like a thick soup; it thickens as it sits.
More Filipino recipes you might like
Goto, Filipino Fried Rice and Bringhe.
