Rediscovering Filipino Delights: A Taste of Home at Red Ribbon Bakeshop San Antonio

Pancit palabok

Growing up in the Philippines, I remembered when Red Ribbon Bakeshop became a household name. There were so many occasions to enjoy their cakes from the Black Forest to the Ube to Mango Supreme. When I was already working, I ordered the bilaos of palabok for work and other gatherings. The bilao is a shallow-weaved basket made from bamboo and commonly used as a food vessel. In the U.S., it would now be called the party platter.

The anticipation is over now that Red Ribbon Bakeshop finally opened in San Antonio. We had an impromptu family dinner last night. I was hoping the bakeshop would have a Mango Supreme cake for me to bring as dessert. With a quick phone call, I discovered that they served arroz caldo and palabok, which would be perfect for our lunch. The display case showcased their cakes beautifully and the store shelves were full of baked goods. I would also end up ordering chicken and pork empanadas to eat there, and butter mamons to go.

The palabok, a Filipino favorite, is a noodle dish with shrimp sauce topped with boiled pork, crushed chicharon, and fried garlic. My first bite had the crunch of the crushed chicharon and it was just so good, taking me back to those gatherings in the Philippines.‌

Arroz caldo

We successfully bought the Mango Supreme cake as dessert for dinner. I couldn’t wait to eat it again! I honestly can’t remember the last time I had a slice. When I got my slice, I had to sit momentarily to admire all the layers since I’m a baker myself. From the delicate chiffon to the signature cream layers to the mango glaze to all the fresh mango pieces. It was so light and airy! I just love the sweet taste of fresh mango. The dessert was surely a hit and everyone enjoyed it as much as I did. It was wonderful to share this Filipino experience with my extended family.

‌I also bought a 6-pack Butter Mamon and was given the 7th free. It’s been even a longer time since I’ve eaten one. I shared them with our neighbors too. My husband and I each had one this morning. Hubby was wishing we had strawberries to enjoy just like strawberry shortcake. He enjoyed it and it reminded him of a similar sponge cake that his Mom used to make. I had the buttery mamon with coffee and it was simply perfect. Now, I want to try the other flavors like ube, mocha, and cheesy.

Even though it’s a bit of a distance, I’m already thinking I want to try the Brazo de Mercedes, Sansrival (for me), and Ensaimada (for Dad).

Chicken Empanada

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Red Ribbon Bakeshop San Antonio is located at 8403 TX-151 #110 on the west side of town.

Blessings,
Ruthie

About the Author

Ruthie Wu is an artist, writer, photographer, and wife to a wonderful husband David.

Her mission in this one blessed journey is to live life #sowingkindness. She loves enjoying foods, baking, flowers, photography, travels and so much more.

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