What’s the best way to make dad feel special on Father’s Day? We’d love to have the absolute answer to that question. However, it really depends on the dad’s personality or interests. It depends on the level of effort, skills, or budget you’re willing to spend, too. So, the question really is, what does your dad (or husband) enjoy? What’s something unique that you can do for him?
For some, it could be cleaning the car and fulfilling other chores. For others, it’s simply whisking him away to the cinema or any other activity. But for a lot of dads, one foolproof way to make them smile is to cook a meal for them at home. Making a homecooked meal for dads can be a great tribute to their hard work and love for the family. Plus, no one else in the world can prepare any dish the way you do for him! Once you’re on-board cooking or baking already, you can then start planning what dish or menu you’re ready to prepare for dad.
Recommended Recipes for Father’s Day, Depending on Dad’s Personality
Are you preparing for an entire spread? Or will you be in charge of just one dish? Whatever the case, below are some ideas depending on the personality of your dad or partner.
For the “Classic” Pinoy Dad: Chicken and Pork Adobo
It’s hard to find a Filipino dad who doesn’t like adobo. But because it’s such a common dish, it’s challenging to prepare it in a memorable way. You really have to find the balance among the flavourings and spices.
For instance, you really have to nail that vinegar to soy sauce ratio. You must also add the right amount of garlic (the more, the merrier for a lot of dads) and peppercorns. If your dad likes it hot, you can add chili peppers, too. Then, you have to make sure that each piece of meat is juicy and tender, and it takes a significant amount of time and love to achieve that. Try our recipe and tweak it depending on your dad’s taste.
Tip: Looking for other tasty Pinoy dishes? Tune in to The Maya Kitchen’s Asian Food Crawl Series this June 25, 2022. Join in-person or hop on the online class to learn Filipino Dishes by Chef Cocoy Ventura. Fees range from P1,800 to P2,000.
For Young and “Hot” Dads: Crispy Shrimps in Spicy Garlic Honey Soy Glazed
Peeling shrimps for your dad is one way to show your love. Take it to the next level by preparing a shrimp dish that will tickle his tastebuds. This recipe combines textures and flavours alike. The crunch in the fried shrimp and the smooth, savoury sauce will be a sure treat.
The secret to make the fried seafood truly scrumptious? Use a combination of MAYA All Purpose Flour, MAYA Cornstarch, egg, and enough garlic or vegetable oil to fry. Make sure you coat the shrimps with the sauce right before serving, so they don’t lose the crunchy texture.
For Health-Conscious Dads: Fresh Garden Orzo Pasta Salad with Fresh Grilled Lemon “Tangigue” Steak
Eating healthy doesn’t mean eating bland. Just look for a recipe that combines various spices for a tasty entrée. If you have a griller handy, fire it up and cook a tanigue steak to perfection. The complementary zesty salad here is quite easy to make, too.
Alternatively, check out our recipe for Fish Piccata With Lemon Butter Sauce And Capers. In this one, dad gets a side of pasta instead of a salad if he likes his carbs. You can choose his favourite fillet, too, such as tilapia, cream dory, or salmon.
Tip: Pair your main dish with a healthy drink, as well. Try this Apple Kale Juice recipe. It will taste very sweet; he might not even know he’s drinking something packed with vitamins.
For the Boozy Dad: Red Sangria
Give dad something unique to try other than his default scotch or bottle of beer. Grab a chilled fruity low tannin red wine and mix it with brandy and fruits for this sweet concoction. Toast to the all the things that make him such a wonderful father.
For the Dad with a Sweet Tooth: Japanese Style Chocolate Cheesecake
Every special occasion calls for cake, and instead of a store-bought one, why not make it yourself? This cheesecake recipe might sound intimidating, but just follow our recipe to the tee for the best results. You don’t need to worry about the right ratio of dry ingredients, too, since this dessert uses MAYA “Chocolatey” Chocolate Hotcake Mix.
If your baking skills is more on the intermediate or advanced level, consider our Chocolate Crepe Cake with Rum Custard Filling recipe. It still uses the same hotcake mix, but you’ll need whip up a boozy filling and a ganache, too. Then, you have to shape the crepes and assemble them perfectly. Yes, it takes more effort and precision, but shoot for the stars for dad!
Would you like to learn more techniques about cooking or baking, especially as Father’s Day and other special occasions draw near? The Maya Kitchen has a line-up of classes you can sign up for! Check out our schedule for our upcoming Father’s Day special, certificate classes, and more. Kids and teens can enrol in some of cooking hangouts, too. See you then!