There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of lugaw. This Filipino rice porridge is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cold days or when you just need a little pick-me-up. With its simple ingredients and heartwarming flavors, lugaw has a special place in many kitchens and hearts.
Classic Chicken Lugaw
Imagine a creamy, savory bowl of rice porridge topped with tender chicken pieces and a sprinkle of green onions. Classic Chicken Lugaw is a staple in Filipino households, often enjoyed during rainy days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
This recipe stars glutinous rice, which gives the lugaw its sticky texture, and chicken, simmered until juicy and flavorful. The addition of ginger infuses warmth, while a drizzle of soy sauce adds the perfect umami punch. What makes this lugaw special is the balance between the richness of the chicken and the gentle sweetness of the rice, making every spoonful a delightful experience.
Beef Lugaw with Calamansi
Take your taste buds on a tangy journey with Beef Lugaw, where tender chunks of beef are simmered to perfection in a rich broth. The unique twist? A splash of calamansi juice that brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing!
This recipe combines beef shank or brisket, which gives the lugaw a hearty and satisfying depth. The calamansi, a small citrus fruit, is a game changer; it elevates the dish and cuts through the richness beautifully. Not only does this lugaw warm your body, but it also lifts your spirits with its delightful contrast of flavors.
Vegetarian Lugaw with Mushrooms

Mushroom congee from Tiffy Cooks
Rating: 4. Ingredients: Mushroom, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, cooked rice Total Time: 25 min.

Mushroom Congee (Rice Porridge) from Plant Based Instant Pot
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Brown rice, tofu, soy sauce, hot peppers, shiitake mushrooms Total Time: 8 hr 15 min.

Comforting Vegan Mushroom Congee from Let's Go Tomato
Ingredients: Sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, ginger, soy, garlic Total Time: 1 hr.
Even non-meat lovers can enjoy the heartwarming comfort of lugaw with this Vegetarian version! Full of umami from the mushrooms and a medley of vegetables, this lugaw is both nourishing and satisfying.
Instead of chicken or beef, this recipe utilizes a variety of mushrooms, like shiitake and button mushrooms, which add a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. The vegetable broth infuses the rice with a savory essence, while the addition of spinach or kale brings a pop of color and nutrition. What makes this vegetarian lugaw special is how it proves that comfort food doesn’t always have to include meat to be soul-satisfying!
Savory Toppings Lugaw

Lugaw Is the Ultimate Filipinx Comfort Food from The Kitchn
Rating: 3. Ingredients: 1 h 40 min Total Time: 1 h 40 min.
Why settle for just a basic bowl of lugaw when you can turn it into a masterpiece? This Savory Toppings Lugaw allows you to customize your bowl, adding your favorite toppings for a personalized touch!
Start with a base of classic lugaw and then get creative! Top it with crispy garlic, sautéed onions, a sprinkle of chicharrón (crispy pork skin), or even a soft-boiled egg for that extra richness. Each topping adds a unique crunch and flavor, transforming the dish into a delightful experience. This recipe is popular for gatherings, as everyone can tailor their bowl to their liking, making it a fun and interactive meal.