Image by Tom Fejér

Halabos na hipon

If you're looking for some lip-smacking deliciousness to tantalize your taste buds, then Halabos na Hipon is the dish for you. This Filipino specialty is not only renowned for its mouth-watering flavors, but also its succulent texture that will leave you craving for more.

Halabos na hipon


This savory seafood dish is prepared by boiling large crustaceans such as shrimp or prawns in their own juices with a dash of vinegar, salt, and pepper, resulting in a delightfully succulent crustacean that's cooked to perfection. The seafood is then tossed in a blend of aromatics such as garlic and ginger, and other spices such as chili flakes and bay leaves to give it a delectable kick.

The result: an enticingly sumptuous meal that's sure to stimulate all your senses. Halabos na Hipon is best served while hot and fresh, with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or calamansi and a dollop of butter to round out the flavor.

What really sets this dish apart is its simplicity: no complex ingredients are needed to create a truly incredible feast. All you need is some crustaceans, a few aromatics, and a bit of vinegar, oil, and seasoning; and you've got yourself a scrumptious dish that's sure to please.

Halabos na Hipon is an ideal choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to catered events and holiday celebrations. It's a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's sure to leave your guests wanting more. With its seasonings, luscious crustaceans, and attractive presentation, Halabos na Hipon is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

The origin of Halabos na hipon

Halabos na hipon, a popular Filipino dish, has become part of the country’s renowned culinary scene. There is much debate over its origin, but many believe it was first created by fishermen.

Hailing from the province of Batangas, this delectable dish is traditionally made with large freshwater prawns marinated in salt and pepper, cooked quickly in their own juices and served with steamed white rice. The name “halabos” comes from the Tagalog verb labahin, which means to shake or to jostle. This refers to the manner of cooking the prawns - they are quickly jostled in the pan until they turn pink and their shells curl up.

The fishmongers of Batangas have been making halabos na hipon for generations. Some believe that this dish was adapted from the Spanish recipe for gambas al ajillo, as the two recipes share similar ingredients and cooking methods. Others point to reports of halabos being eaten in various parts of the country long before the Spanish arrived.

Most agree that the origins of halabos na hipon can be traced back to the fisherman communities of Batangas. It was originally considered a simple meal that could be prepared quickly to feed families or large groups of laborers. Nowadays, halabos na hipon is a classic Filipino favorite and is enjoyed all over the country, at both home and in restaurants.

This languidly cooked seafood delicacy has stood the test of time, and its rich history has now transcended the shores of Batangas and taken hold throughout the Philippines. With its simple yet savory flavor and succulent texture, it’s no wonder why halabos na hipon remains beloved across the islands today.

FAQs about Halabos na hipon

How do you make garlic butter prawns?

Ingredients:
- 12 jumbo prawns, shelled with tails left intact
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.
3. Add the prawns and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
4. Add the butter, garlic, smoked paprika, and salt, and toss to coat.
5. Cook for another minute or two, until the butter is fragrant.
6. Remove from heat and add the lemon juice, stirring to combine.
7. Serve the prawns with the garlic butter sauce and enjoy!


How to cook little shrimp?

1. Begin by thawing the shrimp, if they were previously frozen. If they were already thawed, move on to the next step.

2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil.

3. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the pan and let cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until they are no longer translucent.

4. If desired, season the shrimp with your favorite seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.

5. When the shrimp are cooked through and lightly golden around the edges, remove from the skillet and serve. Enjoy!


What is hipon made of?

Hipon is typically made from shrimp and other shellfish. It is usually cooked in garlic, butter, oil, and a variety of seasonings.


Types of Halabos na hipon

Halabos na hipon, also known as ‘shrimp in a flurry’, is a Filipino seafood dish that shares a common ingredient with many other Eastern dishes which is shrimp. However, Halabos na hipon stands out due to its unique preparation and flavor. This delicacy is cooked in a flurry of butter, garlic, and lemon juice, making it an umami-packed treat that is beloved by many.

Although the traditional recipe of Halabos na hipon is quite simple, the variations on this classic dish are numerous. Depending on individual tastes, the ingredients can be adjusted to give it more depth and complexity. For instance, some chefs like to add a special sauce composed of soy sauce, calamansi lime, and white vinegar to give the dish a deeper flavor. Additionally, for those who want a spicier version of this dish, adding some chili powder or fresh chilies to the mixture can give it a real kick. Other chefs opt for a sweeter version of Halabos na hipon by adding brown sugar or honey to the process.

One way that home cooks can get creative with Halabos na hipon is by making a ‘garnish’. This is where different toppings such as diced tomatoes, slivered onions, or chopped parsley are added to the top of the cooked shrimps. These toppings give the dish more texture and further enhance its savory qualities.

Overall, Halabos na hipon is a versatile seafood dish that can be adapted to suit any palate. By playing around with the ingredients, one can truly make this Filipino classic a unique culinary experience. With its amazing flavor, Halabos na hipon is a must-try if you’re looking for something special.