MANILA-U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson joined James Beard Award-winning food content producer Erwan Heussaff and renowned chefs Angelo Comsti and Don Baldosano at a media event on July 8 to showcase the premium quality and versatility of California raisins for Filipino cooking.

California raisins are naturally sun-dried, free of additives, and rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals. They are a versatile ingredient that enhances savory dishes and adds sweetness to desserts, making them a perfect complement to Filipino cuisine.
“Our shared love for food brings Filipinos and Americans closer together. It’s an honor to be among such talented and passionate culinary champions to celebrate the richness and diversity of Philippine cuisine,” said Ambassador Carlson during the event held at Offbeat Bistro, a newly opened modern-retro Filipino restaurant in Makati City.
Ambassador Carlson joined Mr. Heussaff in preparing “Steak Frites and Potato Pave with California Raisins and Roasted Eggplant Sauce,” pairing the richness of seared steak with a sauce made from talong, or eggplant—a staple in Pinoy households—and elevated by the natural sweetness of California raisins. Mr. Heussaff also presented an appetizer featuring malasugi, the local term for swordfish, complemented by coconut cream and a California raisins tapenade.
“The Filipino flavor profile blends itself very well to California raisins in a sense that we love the mixture of sweet and savory. It’s the perfect match for any type of Filipino dish,” said Mr. Heussaff.
Chef Comsti’s recipe featured a pan-fried bacoco, a local term for sea bream, paired with a kusido-style California raisins sauce inspired by the traditional Filipino stew known for its rich, slow-cooked flavors. For dessert, Chef Baldosano reimagined sorbetes, the iconic Filipino-style ice cream traditionally sold from street carts, using milk and California raisins, accompanied by a crisp milk tuile and bold burnt raisin oil.
In 2024, the Philippines ranked as the fifth-largest global market for California raisin exports, totaling Php522.5 million ($9.5 million). The United States was also the leading exporter of raisins to the Philippines, with an 80 percent market share.
The event was supported by the Raisin Administrative Committee, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service in Manila, and the U.S. Embassy in Manila. (PR)