Vlad Bunoan

Article (news)

turmeric eggs

ABS-CBN News Digital Intern

<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1773122556608image1.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-dragging" width="960"/>Turmeric salted eggs at Riverview Balintawak Market in Winnie Mendoza’s stall. Photo by Jori Mauleon, ABS-CBN News Digital Intern</div>MANILA — At the Balintawak Market in Quezon City, the midday sun isn’t the only thing blazing yellow. Trays of turmeric eggs have been catching shoppers’ attention — and selling fast.Vendor Winnie Mendoza, 43, said she was surprised by the strong demand after she started selling just two trays on March 5.“Nung una, sinubukan lang namin dahil nga hindi karaniwan, pero ngayon nakakabenta na kami ng 50 trays per day. Talagang mabenta siya,” she said.(At first, they were only trying it since it&#x27;s a bit unordinary, but now we are selling 50 trays per day. It&#x27;s a true hit.)Turmeric eggs are a type of salted egg in which turmeric is added to the usual salt-and-mud mixture during the two-week marination process. Customers note that unlike traditional red-colored salted eggs, turmeric eggs are less salty and have a creamy, oily yolk with a slightly tangy taste and a distinctive turmeric — or luyang dilaw — aftertaste.Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, promotes healthy digestion and acts as an antioxidant — one reason the eggs have quickly gained attention in the market, especially among health-conscious consumers. The spice has long been used for herbal and medicinal purposes. <div>Fermentation process</div>The product originates in Candaba, Pampanga, and is made from duck eggs. Arabella Sarmiento, 23, whose family has been producing the unusual eggs since 2023, walked the team through the process.The process begins with a curing mixture of mud clay, rock salt, and freshly ground turmeric. Duck eggs marinate in this slurry for 10 to 14 days before being washed and boiled.Unlike the traditional itlog na maalat, which relies on synthetic Gr-2 red dyes for their deep magenta color, these eggs draw their signature color from the organic turmeric powder. The result is a striking, natural hue that immediately distinguishes them from the other eggs on display.“Ang gamit po namin ay organic turmeric powder, wala pong food color (We use organic turmeric powder for coloring with no added food coloring),&quot; Sarmiento noted.<div>Fusions used with turmeric eggs</div>Customer Ermida Leviste said turmeric eggs are best enjoyed with creamy pastries, among other pairings.“Mayroon siyang tangy flavor tapos hindi masyado maalat kaya perfect siya for kakanin, for example bibingka (It has a tangy flavor that the salt do not overpower the sweetness of the kakainin such as bibingka),&quot;For cooks looking to add a different kind of savory saltiness to dishes, turmeric eggs are a promising option.<div><a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/life/07/27/19/from-salted-egg-to-turmeric-gourmet-tuyo-gets-fun-twist">From salted egg to turmeric: Gourmet tuyo gets fun twist</a></div>• Ensaladang Kamatis - The most traditional way to enjoy salted eggs is in this classic side salad. Replacing the usual pink salted egg with the turmeric variant adds a peppery note that complements the acidity of fresh tomatoes and onions.• Paired with Garlic Rice - Mash the turmeric egg yolk into the garlic fried rice.• Pastry Fillings - Artisanal bakeries are using turmeric eggs as a centerpiece for traditional Filipino kakanin like bibingka, ensaymada and siopao. • Gourmet Pasta - Sauteed turmeric eggs are now added to pasta for added earthy saltiness. • Topping for lugaw - Commonly paired with hot chicken porridge as a classic Filipino comfort food, rain or shine.

Bright yellow turmeric eggs have become a standout sight at the Balintawak Market in Quezon City.

Bright yellow turmeric eggs have become a standout sight at the Balintawak Market in Quezon City.

Turmeric eggs add a golden twist to the classic itlog na pula

News

Entertainment

Lifestyle

Sports

Metro.Style

More

Sudoku

Word of the Day

Lotto

Horoscope

Food and Travel

Turmeric eggs add a golden twist to the classic itlog na pula

ABS-CBN News Digital Intern,

Izel Manata

Published March 11, 2026 12:10 PM PHT

Read More:

turmeric egg

food

ABS-CBN is the leading media and entertainment company in the Philippines, offering quality content across TV, radio, digital, and film. Committed to public service and promoting Filipino values, ABS-CBN continues to inspire and connect audiences worldwide.

Corporate

Investors

Governance

International Distribution

Corporate

Governance

Investors

International Distribution

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

AI Policy

Terms of Service

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.