PASTILLAS – Here are some interesting facts about this popular Filipino sweet treat that you might not know.
Pastillas is a beloved Filipino candy that offers a sweet, creamy delight with every bite. These milk-based treats have become a staple in Filipino culture, celebrated for their simple yet rich flavors.
In the Philippines, sweets are more than just desserts, they’re a way to share love, celebrate traditions, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Pastillas, often referred to as “milk pills,” has smooth texture and sweet taste, making it as a must-try for anyone wanting to explore Filipino flavors.
It is a small candy made primarily from milk and sugar. These bite-sized sweets come in different textures and flavors, making them a versatile treat.
History
The tradition of making pastillas started in San Miguel, Bulacan, a province in the Philippines known for its rich culinary heritage. Originally, they were homemade by farmers who raised carabaos (water buffalo) and used the carabao’s milk to create these delightful candies. Over time, the practice spread to other regions, and pastillas became a popular treat across the country.
Origin
Pastillas originated in San Miguel, Bulacan, but their popularity quickly spread to places like Cagayan and Masbate. Each region adds its own twist, resulting in unique flavors and textures that reflect local ingredients and preferences.
San Miguel, Bulacan, celebrates an annual Pastillas Festival every May, emphasizing this sweet treat’s cultural significance. The festival features traditional practices such as the pabalat, an intricate paper-cutting art used for wrapping pastillas.
Ingredients
The traditional pastillas recipe features simple yet important ingredients that make this Filipino sweet treat so delightful.
- Carabao Milk: The primary ingredient, offering a rich and creamy base.
- Refined Sugar: Added to sweeten the milk and create the candy’s signature sweetness.
- Calamansi Juice: A small amount is added to balance the sweetness with a hint of citrus.
Variations of pastillas may include:
- Cow’s Milk
- Peanuts
- Purple Yam (Ube)
- Mango
- Durian
Cooking Procedure
- Heat the milk gently while stirring continuously until it thickens.
- Add sugar into the thickened milk and cook until the mixture reaches the desired consistency.
- Allow the mixture to cool before handling.
- Form the cooled mixture into small cylindrical shapes.
- Wrap each cylinder in colorful, decorative paper.