Myth Busted: Monkey Brains in Filipino Cuisine

The misconception that Filipinos eat live monkey brains is a persistent one, but fear not, it has no basis in reality. Filipino cuisine boasts an abundance of delicious and unique dishes, and monkey brains are not among them.
So, where does this myth come from?
* Mistaken Identity: The culprit might be a hairy mushroom called the monkey head mushroom (Hericium erinaceus). Its resemblance to a monkey’s head, especially when translated from other languages, may have led to confusion.
* Historical Rarity: While consuming monkey brains might have occurred historically in some parts of Asia, it was never a common practice in the Philippines.
If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines, rest assured that you’ll be spoilt for choice with delectable Filipino fare. Adobo, a savory stew with meat or seafood, Sinigang, a sour and savory soup, and Lechon, a whole roasted suckling pig, are just a few of the many must-tries waiting to tantalize your taste buds.