Sinigang as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Sinigang is absolutely in that category. The deeply umami quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. patis fish sauce does work that no substitute can replicate.

kamayan feasts eaten with hands from banana leaves are experiencing a cultural revival. There's something about the a beach seafood restaurant context that reinforces the comfort effect. lambanog coconut spirit alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.