There was a time when bulad (dried fish) was one of my all-time favorite Pinoy foods. The crispy texture, the salty umami taste, and that distinct aroma—nothing could beat a simple meal of bulad, rice, and vinegar dipping sauce. It was my comfort food, something I always looked forward to.
But as the years passed, something changed. I hardly ate bulad anymore, and strangely, I stopped craving it. Even when I tried eating it again, it just didn’t feel the same. The taste was still familiar, but it didn’t bring the same joy or satisfaction. No matter how much I ate, I didn’t feel full. I realized my taste buds had changed, and I couldn’t enjoy it the way I used to.
Maybe pregnancy had something to do with it. They say pregnancy changes a woman’s body in ways we don’t fully understand—not just physically but even in our food preferences. The things we once loved to eat may no longer appeal to us. Some tastes become stronger, while others fade away.
Still, I respect bulad for what it is—a true Filipino classic, loved by many. From the tuyo (small dried fish) that pairs perfectly with garlic rice, to the danggit (crispy sun-dried rabbitfish) that’s a breakfast favorite, and the pusit (dried squid) that’s both a snack and a dish ingredient, bulad remains a staple in Filipino homes. There are also varieties like espada (belt fish), bisugo (threadfin bream), and lapu-lapu (grouper), each with its own unique texture and flavor.
Though I may not crave it anymore, I still appreciate the memories tied to it—the early morning breakfasts, the beachside meals, and the simple joy of eating something so deeply Filipino. Maybe one day, my love for bulad will return. But for now, I’ll just let others enjoy it while I explore new flavors that satisfy the person I’ve become.
Have you ever lost a craving for a food you once loved?
