Ginataang Kalabasa, a Filipino vegetable dish, consists of squash, string beans, and coconut milk. While it can be a vegetarian dish, it often includes shrimp, pork, or chicken for added flavor.
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Published: 1/3/25
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Ginataang Kalabasa traces its origins to the Philippines, where coconut milk has been a mainstay in cooking due to the country’s wealth of coconut trees.
The term “Ginataang Kalabasa” comes from two Filipino words: ginataan, which means cooked in coconut milk, and kalabasa, which translates to squash.
How To Cook Ginataang Kalabasa
Searing Pork Belly for Flavor
Begin the recipe by heating the wok and searing the diced pork belly until it renders enough fat. This will help develop the rich, savory base for the ginataang kalabasa. Cook the pork until it turns slightly brown.
Sautéing Aromatics in pork fat
Once the pork has browned slightly, move it to the side of the wok. Then, sauté the chopped garlic, onions, and julienned ginger in the pork fat that remains. Stir until the onion softens and the kitchen is filled with the savory aroma. These ingredients provide the basis of the dish’s flavor profile, with the ginger contributing a subtle warmth. Once the onion becomes translucent, it is time to add the coconut milk.
Simmering Coconut Milk and pork
After the onions become translucent, pour the coconut milk into the wok, making sure to stir the mixture well. Cover the wok and allow it to simmer for about 40 to 50 minutes on low heat. This process lets the coconut milk infuse with the pork and aromatics, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce. Be sure to keep an eye on the dish to avoid overcooking the coconut milk.
Balancing flavors with Shrimp Paste and Water
Once the coconut milk has simmered, add the shrimp paste and water. Stir the mixture well, and let it come to a boil. The shrimp paste provides a distinctive, salty umami taste that complements the coconut milk’s richness. Water is added to adjust the consistency and balance the flavors.
Adding Kalabasa and Sitaw
Now that the coconut milk has simmered, it is time to add the kalabasa (squash) to the pot and cover the wok. Let it cook for about 8 minutes. While it cooks, the squash will soften and soak up the flavors, lending a natural sweetness to the ginataang kalabasa. Next, add the sitaw (string beans) and stir gently. Continue cooking for 5 minutes more to ensure the string beans are tender but still crisp.
Finish by seasoning the dish with Maggi Magic Sarap for added flavor. Once all ingredients are tender and flavorful, serve the ginataang kalabasa with steamed rice. Enjoy this creamy, savory dish with your loved ones!
Ginataang Kalabasa Ingredients
The ingredients we have will surely scream “tropical,” from the squash to the coconut milk, so don’t miss out on any ingredient.
- 3 lbs. kalabasa, cubed – Squash is the main vegetable in this dish, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture when cooked. Cutting it into cubes guarantees even cooking.
- 18 pieces string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces (sitaw) – Add a contrasting texture and a mild earthy taste. Cutting them uniformly allows even cooking and a pleasing presentation.
- 1 ½ lbs. pork belly, diced – Contributes protein and fat, which enhances the dish’s overall taste. Dicing it ensures the pieces cook through evenly.
- 24 ounces coconut milk – This is the heart of the dish, providing creaminess and a distinct tropical flavor.
- 2 tablespoons shrimp paste – This ingredient brings salty and umami tastes. Be cautious with the amount, as it’s strong.
- 1 onion, chopped – Onions create a flavor base with sweetness and depth. Chopping ensures they melt into the dish as they cook. Without onions, the dish might lack complexity.
- 3 thumbs ginger, julienned – Adds warmth and a slight spiciness, complementing the coconut milk’s richness.
- 8 cloves garlic – Gives an irresistible aroma. Chopping or crushing ensures it blends well into the dish.
- 8 grams Maggi Magic Sarap – This elevates the dish by emphasizing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1 cup water – Water adjusts the sauce’s consistency, ensuring it’s not overly thick. Without it, the coconut milk might cook down too much, making the dish too rich or dry.
Other Ginataang Kalabasa Recipes
If you are looking for other ginataang kalabasa variations, try these recipes:
Extend the Shelf Life of Ginataang Kalabasa
This dish typically lasts 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container. To extend its shelf life, you can try storing it in smaller portions so you can reheat only what you need. Avoid letting it sit out for long periods, as the coconut milk can spoil faster.
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Ginataang Kalabasa
Squash cooked in coconut milk with the flavor of simmered pork
Instructions
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Heat the wok and then sear the pork until enough fat renders. Move the pork aside, and sauté garlic, onion, and ginger in the pork fat.
1 onion, 3 thumbs ginger, 8 cloves garlic, 1 ½ lbs. pork belly
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Once the onion softens, pour the coconut milk. Cover and simmer for 40 to 50 minutes.
24 ounces coconut milk
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Add shrimp paste and water. Let boil.
2 tablespoon shrimp paste, 1 cup water
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Add the kalabasa. Cover the wok. Cook for 8 minutes.
3 lbs. kalabasa
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Put the string beans in. Stir. Continue cooking for 5 minutes.
18 pieces string beans
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Season with Maggi Magic Sarap.
8 grams Maggi Magic Sarap
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Serve. Share and enjoy!
Notes
Avoid adding too much shrimp paste, as its strong salty and umami flavor can overpower the dish. Start with a small amount, taste as you cook, and adjust to avoid over-seasoning. Without careful handling, it can clash with the coconut milk’s creaminess instead of complementing it.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 6078kcal (304%) Carbohydrates: 283g (94%) Protein: 149g (298%) Fat: 513g (789%) Saturated Fat: 262g (1310%) Polyunsaturated Fat: 43g Monounsaturated Fat: 175g Cholesterol: 832mg (277%) Sodium: 1548mg (65%) Potassium: 11660mg (333%) Fiber: 72g (288%) Sugar: 94g (104%) Vitamin A: 31094IU (622%) Vitamin C: 413mg (501%) Calcium: 1403mg (140%) Iron: 55mg (306%)
Watch How to Cook Ginataang Kalabasa
