Embutido

Embutido is the Filipino celebration meatloaf, a distant cousin of the Spanish embutido that became something gloriously its own. Ground pork is seasoned with raisins, cheese, and vegetables, wrapped around sausage, hot dogs, and hard-boiled eggs, then rolled in foil and steamed until firm. It is the dish that fills the house with promise as it steams — everyone knows something good is coming — and a platter of sliced embutido is the sign that a celebration is truly underway.

A hidden-treasure loaf, slice after slice

Every slice reveals the surprise inside: a pinwheel of sausage and egg framed by juicy, savory pork studded with sweet raisins and melty cheese. Steaming keeps the meatloaf exceptionally moist, while the breadcrumbs hold everything together just right. It is festive and filling, and it slices cleanly, which makes the platter look as good as it tastes — leftover slices make incredible sandwiches the next day, if there are any left.

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