July brings cooler weather and heavy afternoon rains to the Philippines, inviting warm recipes back into the kitchen rotation. In these times, locals tend to crave soothing comfort foods that taste like home.

From steaming bowls of arroz caldo to hearty servings of champorado, these beloved comfort foods have long been a source of warmth during gloomy days.

Here is our list of comfort foods to warm the soul:

1. Chicken Tinola

Chicken Tinola is a classic Filipino soup made with tender chicken simmered in a flavorful ginger broth with green papaya (or chayote) and malunggay or chili leaves. Not only is it a great source of nutrients, but it is absolutely necessary for gloomy days, when all you need is a taste of home.

2. Sinigang na baboy

Sinigang na baboy is a traditional Filipino dish made with tender pork belly, gabi (taro), and fresh vegetables with sour broth. Its tangy flavor and warm broth make it ideal for cold and rainy days, offering comfort with every spoonful.

3. Arroz Caldo

What is a cold rainy day without a warm bowl of Arroz Caldo? This rice porridge is made with chicken, two types of rice (jasmine and sweet/sticky rice), and a fragrant broth infused with ginger, garlic, and onions.

Traditionally topped with boiled eggs, toasted garlic, green onions, and a squeeze of calamansi, you get the perfect meal for any time of day.

4. Champorado

Gloomy days call for something to brighten your mood, and what’s better than one of the most beloved Filipino desserts to do just that? Champorado, the Filipino chocolate rice porridge, offers the sweet taste that Filipinos grew up loving. The combination of glutinous rice, cocoa, and sugar creates a rich, creamy, and comforting flavor, perfect for the rainy season.

Rain or shine, these timeless Filipino comfort foods remind us that the best way to get through the season is with a warm meal shared with the people we love.