Discovering Filipino Heritage through Cooking: Mike Curato’s Culinary Journey
A Taste of Home and Culture
Growing up in a Filipino immigrant household, Mike Curato’s early experiences with Filipino cuisine were limited. His father, though originally from the Philippines, rarely ventured into the kitchen, occasionally whipping up fried rice adorned with hot dogs. For authentic Filipino dishes, the family had to embark on a culinary pilgrimage to bustling Filipino enclaves in New Jersey, where tantalizing meals awaited in the back of bodegas or cozy homes.
The Vibrancy of Filipino Festivals
During summer, Filipino festivals in Passaic and Jersey City became the highlight of Mike’s childhood. The rich aroma of barbecue smoke would envelop them as he emerged from the car, honing in on the feast like a moth to a flame. At these gatherings, he would indulge in heaps of lumpia and pancit bihon, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, where laughter and conversations flowed in a language he could recognize but not fully comprehend. Despite this cultural gap—largely due to his father’s decision not to teach their native Bisaya—Mike’s connection to these flavors remained deep and personal.
Cooking as a Path to Connection
In 2020, amidst the solitude of lockdown, Mike felt a renewed urge to connect with his heritage while promoting his book Flamer, featuring a Filipino main character. A casual email to fellow artist Isabel Roxas sparked a culinary adventure, culminating in the discovery of Angela Dimayuga’s coconut chicken adobo recipe.
Isabel’s encouragement to start with this dish—a staple of Filipino cuisine—was unexpected for Mike. He had always thought of Filipino food as exotic and hard-to-come-by, not something to simply whip up at home. However, as he began to cook, a transformative experience unfolded.
The Magical Moment of Cooking Adobo
Imagine the delightful sizzle of garlic and peppercorns in hot oil, the intoxicating aroma of chicken simmering in a rich blend of coconut milk, soy sauce, and vinegar! Mike’s kitchen filled with warmth and nostalgia, transporting him back to his roots. The first bite brought overwhelming memories flooding in, igniting a sense of belonging and pride.
Embracing Culinary Confidence
Regularly preparing adobo provided Mike with the confidence to dive deeper into Filipino cooking. By summer 2022, he had orchestrated an entire Filipino feast for his friend Christine’s birthday—complete with pancit, barbeque skewers, and, of course, his beloved chicken adobo. The joyful exclamations from his guests served as a reminder that food is a powerful connector.
The Sweet Journey to Halo Halo
Dessert was equally delightful; Mike crafted his take on halo halo, a traditional Filipino shaved ice dessert. The incorporation of unique ingredients has turned this dish into an obsession, with his professional-grade ice-shaving machine adding an extra touch of authenticity to his culinary repertoire.
More Than Just Food
But what does it all mean? For Mike, food isn’t just about filling the belly—it fills the spirit as well. It’s about community, cultural identity, and connection. In his new book, Gaysians, he explores the complex layers of identity through food, featuring characters grappling with their Asian and queer experiences in America.
Food as Kinship
A shared meal becomes a canvas for kinship, a bridge between cultures, and a means of forging bonds. Cooking his heritage empowers Mike, allowing him to express and embrace his identity on his own terms, even if he does it imperfectly.
Conclusion: Culinary Freedom
With newfound skills and confidence, Mike no longer waits for an invitation to backyard barbecues; he boldly hosts his own. Through the act of cooking and sharing Filipino food, Mike Curato has found validation and connection, weaving his heritage into the very fabric of his life.
Discover the culinary journey that intertwines culture and connection in Mike Curato’s upcoming book, Gaysians, available for purchase here.
Explore the rich tapestry of Filipino cuisine and the profound connections it fosters. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, diving into these flavors can be a rewarding journey!
