Smoky Tinapa Pasta with Salted Egg & Garlic Crunch
Chef RV Manabat adapted by JojoM
A smoky, garlicky Filipino pasta made with flaked tinapa, ripe tomatoes, salted egg, and toasted garlic—Chef RV’s leveled-up palabok-style dish.
Smoky Tinapa Pasta with Salted Egg & Garlic Crunch 🍝🔥
If you love Filipino pasta recipes with a smoky twist, this dish is a must-try. Inspired by Chef RV Manabat, this tinapa pasta combines the deep flavor of flaked smoked fish, juicy ripe tomatoes, and silky olive oil—finished with salted egg chunks and a satisfying garlic crunch. It’s like palabok reinvented, but lighter and easier for weeknights or potlucks.
Why This Tinapa Pasta Works 💡
- Smoky & savory: Tinapang bangus (or galunggong if budget-friendly) adds a bold, smoky depth.
- Balanced flavors: Ripe tomatoes bring sweetness, garlic adds bite, and atsuete lends warmth and color.
- Filipino flair: Salted egg chunks, toasted garlic, and calamansi or lemon on the side elevate it beyond a regular tomato pasta.
- Quick to cook: With just 40 minutes from prep to table, it’s a great oil-based pasta recipe for busy nights.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results 🧑🍳
- Choose your tinapa wisely: Bangus gives a richer flavor, while galunggong is more affordable but still tasty.
- Don’t skip the pasta water: It helps the sauce cling beautifully to each strand.
- Toast it in the pan: Letting the pasta crisp slightly at the bottom gives a subtle nutty layer of flavor.
Serving Ideas 🍳
This smoky pasta recipe isn’t just a main dish—it doubles as a potluck superstar. Serve it warm with:
- Extra salted eggs on top for creaminess.
- A squeeze of lemon or calamansi for brightness.
- Optional cheese if you like it richer.
Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
A Modern Filipino Classic 🇵🇭
Tinapa is usually enjoyed with rice, but transforming it into a pasta dish shows how versatile Filipino flavors can be. The smoky, garlicky base paired with salted egg takes this beyond an ordinary seafood pasta—making it one of those recipes you’ll crave again and again.
Whether for a family dinner or a potluck with friends, this tinapa pasta with salted egg proves that Filipino food can be both comforting and elevated at the same time. 🌟
Smoky Tinapa Pasta with Salted Egg & Garlic Crunch
Chef RV Manabat adapted by JojoMA smoky, garlicky Filipino pasta made with flaked tinapa, ripe tomatoes, salted egg, and toasted garlic—Chef RV’s leveled-up palabok-style dish.
Chef's Tips
Use bangus for richer smoky flavor, galunggong if budget-friendly.
Reserve pasta water to help the sauce cling perfectly.
Toast pasta lightly in the pan for added depth.
Tools Used
Large Pot
Strainer
Frying Pan
Tongs
Knife
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Ingredients
Pasta Base
Tinapa Sauce
Garnishes
Instructions
Prepare the Tinapa
- 1
Remove skin and bones from tinapa by hand to ensure no bones remain.
- 2
Flake the fish and set aside.
Cook the Pasta
- 1
Bring salted water to a boil.
- 2
Cook pasta 1 minute less than package instructions for a firm bite.
- 3
Reserve some pasta water before draining.
Make the Sauce
- 1
In a pan, combine tomatoes, shallots, and garlic.
- 2
Add atsuete powder, drizzle with olive oil, and gently mix.
- 3
Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until flavors blend.
- 4
Season with black pepper and add chili flakes if desired.
Combine Pasta & Sauce
- 1
Add drained pasta to the sauce.
- 2
Pour in reserved pasta water gradually, tossing until coated.
- 3
Allow bottom to toast lightly for 2 minutes without burning.
Assemble & Serve
- 1
Mix in flaked tinapa.
- 2
Garnish with salted eggs, diced tomatoes, shallots, spring onions, and toasted garlic.
- 3
Serve with lemon wedges on the side; add cheese if desired.
Comments & Reviews
Maria L.
5/2/2025
Tried this for Holy Week and wow, the smoky flavor is addicting. My family loved the salted egg topping!
Carlo D.
6/19/2025
I was hesitant with tinapa in pasta, but it turned out so good. Definitely making again.
Ana P.
7/28/2025
Reminds me of palabok but easier and lighter. Perfect potluck dish!
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 250 g)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
