Lautua

Lautua is a traditional Filipino dish, specifically from the Bicol region of the Philippines. It is a type of laing, which is a dish made from shredded taro leaves stewed in coconut milk. The key distinguishing ingredient in lautua, however, is the addition of fermented fish or shrimp paste (bagoong) to the coconut milk base. This fermentation process gives lautua a distinctively pungent and savory flavor profile, differentiating it from other laing variations that might rely solely on fresh ingredients.

The preparation of lautua typically involves simmering shredded taro leaves with coconut milk, garlic, ginger, onions, and the crucial bagoong. Chili peppers are often included to add a spicy kick, which is characteristic of Bicolano cuisine. The dish is cooked slowly until the taro leaves are tender and the sauce has thickened. Lautua is usually served as a side dish, accompanying steamed rice, and is particularly popular during special occasions and family gatherings in the Bicol region. Its strong flavor makes it a dish that is both loved and can be an acquired taste for those unfamiliar with its ingredients.