Each bite bursts with juicy, caramelized sweetness that keeps you coming back for more. |
Ereñeta-Manaloto Chorizo de Bacolod isn’t just a product; it’s a living legacy, steeped in history and brimming with flavor. The story begins with Doña Antonia Puentebella’s original recipe, which she perfected with the help of her nieces: Josefina, who married into the Ereñeta family, and Fidela, who married into the Manaloto family. This collaboration led to the creation of Chorizo de Bacolod, a smoky variant of the beloved longganisa. Passed down through generations, the recipe eventually found its way into the hands of Catherina "Cata" Ereñeta-Manaloto who, alongside her husband Oliver, transformed it into the iconic brand we know today.
For Cata and Oliver, their mission is more than simply continuing a family tradition—it’s about honoring both the Ereñeta and Manaloto names while bringing Bacolod’s chorizo into the spotlight of the Philippine culinary scene. They’ve set their sights on earning Bacolod chorizo a coveted spot alongside longganisa legends like Chorizo de Cebu and Vigan Longganisa, ensuring that this regional treasure is enjoyed across the country and beyond.
Whether you prefer it in pudpod or bilog form. |
Ereñeta-Manaloto’s chorizo comes in two distinct, smoked varieties: Chorizo Recado, known for its savory, tangy flavor, and Chorizo Hamonado, with its delectably sweet notes. Both are crafted by hand, staying true to traditional methods to ensure the authentic, high-quality taste that has been cherished for generations. Despite their deep connection to this heritage recipe, the brand humbly acknowledges that it does not claim to be the first or only Bacolod chorizo. Instead, it proudly positions itself as an artisan product, embodying the spirit and flavor of its origins while embracing modern innovations.
Packaging plays a significant role in preserving the integrity and accessibility of Ereñeta-Manaloto’s products. The Chorizo Pudpod is available in canned and bottled forms, while the Chorizo Bilog comes in vacuum-sealed links, ensuring freshness and quality for longer periods. These thoughtful packaging options make the chorizo not only perfect for everyday meals but also ideal for export and pasalubong. Whether shared with loved ones abroad or enjoyed at home, the chorizo carries the unmistakable taste of Bacolod, evoking a sense of nostalgia with every bite.
Sweet, savory, and packed with Bacolod’s signature flavor—Ereñeta-Manaloto’s Chorizo Hamonado is a must-try for chorizo lovers! |
A pivotal moment for the brand came in 2017 when it made its debut at the Negros Trade Fair. The event introduced Ereñeta-Manaloto Chorizo to a wider audience, sparking waves of nostalgia for Negrenses living in Manila. For many, tasting the chorizo was like stepping back in time, rekindling fond memories of family breakfasts and home-cooked meals. Even newcomers were captivated by its bold, distinctive flavor, and the overwhelmingly positive reception opened the doors to exciting new opportunities. Today, the brand partners with local restaurants, creating custom menus that highlight the versatility of their chorizo.
Beyond its traditional role as a breakfast staple, Ereñeta-Manaloto’s chorizo has proven itself as a versatile ingredient. The brand shares recipes with customers, demonstrating how the chorizo can enhance a wide array of dishes, from hearty stews to creative pastas and even gourmet appetizers. This dedication to showcasing its adaptability has helped the chorizo carve out a special place in kitchens both professional and personal.
Bacolod’s iconic flavors, now ready to take your meals up a notch! Ereñeta-Manaloto Chorizo de Bacolod brings the rich, smoky-sweet taste of authentic Bacolod chorizo straight to your table. |
By seamlessly blending the time-honored techniques of the past with the innovative spirit of the present, Ereñeta-Manaloto Chorizo de Bacolod is more than just a family business—it’s a celebration of Bacolod’s rich culinary heritage. With each link of chorizo, the Ereñeta-Manaloto family preserves a cherished piece of their history while inviting new generations to savor the distinct flavors of Bacolod. It’s a journey from tradition to modernity, one bite at a time.
Article by: Liway Espina
Photos by: Bem Cortez