Certain cuisines from around the world often surprise or even disgust those unfamiliar with them, and the Philippines has just added one more to the list. A recent Instagram post by a traveler visiting the country has gone viral, showcasing an unusual winter dish that many locals adore: papaitan, a bitter soup made with cow bile.
While the name might sound refined, papaitan is far from typical. The dish consists of cow bile, along with parts of the cow’s stomach and liver. The social media user who shared the video described the taste and explained the ingredients.
During his visit to a hotel kitchen, the traveler demonstrated the preparation process, revealing how the bile, containing digestive enzymes, is mixed with vegetables and chopped meat to create the unique flavor profile. Interestingly, goat dung soup was also being prepared at the same time, though the visitor opted for the cow bile version.
Despite its unusual ingredients, many Filipinos enjoy papaitan for its distinct bitter taste, complemented by spices that balance the flavor. The video sparked a lively discussion online, with some commenters defending the dish and others praising its authenticity.
One user said, “This is so delicious, my friend,” while another clarified, “Bile is digestive fluid, not poop.” Locals also chimed in to explain that the bile comes from inside the cow’s stomach, not from its waste.
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