Every Friday during Lent, Roman Catholics traditionally abstain from meat as a way to reflect and strengthen their spiritual health. Pork, chicken, beef, and other meats are off the table, but that doesn’t mean your meals have to be bland or boring.

Vegetables and seafood are your go-to ingredients this season, and I'm here to make it easier for you by sharing a couple of delectable recipes from Liberato P. Fernandez’s 1942 Aklat ng Pagluluto — a classic cookbook that’s been serving up delicious Filipino dishes for generations.

Here are five flavorful, easy-to-make dishes perfect for your Lenten meals:

RECIPE 1: Tuna Empanada 

If you’re craving something filling but want to skip the rice, these Tuna Empanadas are a perfect choice. This dish is healthy and satisfying — minus the meat — making it ideal for Holy Week.

Ingredients for Filling:

• Potatoes, sliced

• Garlic, minced

• Onions, chopped

• Canned tuna (instead of pork or beef)

• Raisins

• Olives

• Sliced hard-boiled eggs

• Salt and pepper

• Cooking oil

Ingredients for Dough:

• All-purpose flour

• Cooking oil

• Cold water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

   • Slice the potatoes and fry them lightly in oil until golden. Remove and set aside.

   • In the same pan, sauté the garlic and onions until fragrant.

   • Add the canned tuna.

   • Stir in the raisins and olives.

   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

   • Return the fried potatoes to the pan and add the sliced hard-boiled eggs. Mix gently.

   • Remove from heat and let the filling cool.

2. Make the Dough:

   • In a bowl, mix the flour, a bit of oil, and cold water.

   • Knead until the dough forms a smooth texture.

   • Let the dough rest for about 10–15 minutes.

   • Roll out the dough and cut it into square or circular pieces.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

   • Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough piece.

   • Fold the dough over to cover the filling and seal the edges (use a fork to crimp).

   • Ensure the edges are tightly sealed to avoid bursting during frying.

4. Cook the Empanadas:

   • Heat enough oil in a pan for deep frying.

   • Fry the empanadas in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.

   • Drain on paper towels.

RECIPE 2: Fish balls with pechay

For a wholesome, vegetable-packed dish that’s as comforting as it is nutritious, try this Bola-Bola at Pechay. With fish balls and a tasty vegetable broth, this meal will leave you feeling full without the guilt.