Oman is renowned for being a hub for cultural exploration, hosting numerous international events. This particular evening transported us to the Philippines.
"Salo-Salo" was a celebration of Filipino culture and cuisine, hosted by Philippine Ambassador Raul S. Hernandez and his spouse, Ana Algabre-Hernandez. Salo-Salo is a traditional Filipino gathering where family and friends come together to share food at a single dining table, known as "hapag kainan." The ambience was further enhanced by traditional folk dances and songs performed by musicians and artists based in Oman.
As the food was served, the distinct aromas and flavours began to awaken the senses. And we certainly couldn’t overlook the flowers. “Try the flower,” suggested Mrs Ana Hernandez. The flavour was delightful, reminiscent of lemon sorbet, which was refreshing and prepared our palates for the culinary journey ahead. To introduce everyone to the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, the Pearl of the Orient events had organised a seven-course gastronomic experience.
The first course was a starter of mango paired with oysters topped with torched mung beans, complemented by a vibrant dance performance depicting the life of chieftains. Next came a soup infused with the roasted flavours of butternut squash and crispy cassava. Among the performances was "Banga at Salip," a traditional Filipino folk dance from the Kalinga tribe in northern Philippines, where dancers deftly balanced clay pots on their heads, offering a glimpse into the islands' pottery traditions.
The appetizer featured a contemporary twist on the classic chicken sisig, accompanied by a rendition of the folk song "Sa Kabukiran," which celebrated rural life and the beauty of the countryside. This was followed by an unusual eggplant and mango salad. The performance of "Pandanggo sa Ilaw," the dance of lights, was breathtaking, showcasing dancers who balanced oil lamps and candles on their heads and in their hands. For the main course, we enjoyed a fusion dish, risotto kare-kare, combining Italian and Filipino culinary traditions with seafood and aromatic spices.
By this point, we were eager to meet the creative force behind these culinary delights.
Chef Marilyn Alvarez is a culinary visionary whose unique journey has shaped her dedication to Filipino cuisine. Having thrived in the corporate world, she always held a deep fondness for cooking and the vibrant flavours of her heritage. After recognising her calling, she transitioned her passion into a profession, enrolling in culinary courses while drawing inspiration from the traditional cooking methods learnt at home.
As a self-taught chef, Marilyn has dedicated countless hours to experimenting with ingredients and techniques, refining her dishes to elevate the dining experience. Her ambition is to be a pioneer in Oman, introducing the richness of Filipino cuisine to the local culinary scene. Chef Marilyn's goal is to make fine dining Filipino food accessible to all, allowing families and friends to gather over a meal and cultivate a profound appreciation for a culture distinct from their own.
Oman Daily Observer sat down Chef Marilyn to explain more about the concept.
Q: What inspired you to start Salo-Salo in Oman?
A: "The idea for Salo-Salo arose when we identified a gap in the fine dining Filipino restaurant scene in Oman. With new entrepreneurs emerging, we felt a strong need to create a unique dining experience that not only showcases Filipino cuisine but also highlights our rich culture through clothing, performances, and entertainment."
Q: Can you explain the concept of Salo-Salo?
A: "Salo-Salo, meaning 'dining together' in Filipino, is a cultural practice that emphasises sharing meals in a familial or communal setting. It embodies our love for food and culture, inviting everyone to gather around a long table and share a meal."
Q: How does Salo-Salo differentiate itself from other dining experiences?
A: "What makes Salo-Salo truly unique is that each meal is accompanied by lively performances showcasing various folk dances and songs still practiced throughout the Philippines today. This creates a vibrant atmosphere, allowing guests to connect more deeply with our culture."
Q: What kind of feedback have you received about Salo-Salo?
A: "I am incredibly grateful for the positive feedback we have received from the Philippine Embassy in Muscat. They recognise how Salo-Salo promotes Filipino culture in Oman, reinforcing the significance of our efforts."
Q: What are your plans for the future of Salo-Salo?
A: "Looking ahead, we aim to expand our experience to reach a broader audience. We are in the process of finalising the best ways to achieve this and are currently in discussions with potential collaborators. Our goal is to provide people in Oman with an intimate and meaningful insight into what a Filipino Salo-Salo truly embodies."
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