Rice is a Staple at Filipino Meals

The Philippines is one of the top importers of rice in the world, so it’s no surprise that grains (from jasmine to heirloom) are staples at most meals. Los Angeles chef Charles Olalia remembers eating mostly white rice while growing up in the Philippines, but on a recent trip back as an adult, he discovered at least 30 heirloom varieties.

“In the Philippines, rice grows from the highlands to the lowlands, and in the...