Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw
(Squash and Green Beans with Coconut Milk)
Krizell•
Aug 21, 2025
Ginataang Kabocha at Sitaw is one of my go to comfort foods. If you’re looking for a simple, cozy dish that’s full of flavor, you’ve got to try it. “Ginataang” means “cooked in coconut milk” in Filipino. It comes from the word “gata,” which means coconut milk. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and super comforting — made with tender kabocha squash and sitaw cooked in rich coconut milk. Perfect for any day when you want something tasty and easy to whip up!
You can also swap out the vegetables for ginataang gulay that suit your liking. Some recommendations:
- Kangkong (water spinach) – classic and tender
- Sitaw (string beans) – adds nice crunch
- Talong (eggplant) – softens beautifully in coconut milk
- Gabi (taro root) – gives a nice starchy texture
- Sayote (chayote) – mild and slightly crunchy
- Ampalaya (bitter melon) – if you like a bit of bitterness
- Okra – for a slight slimy texture that thickens the sauce
- Camote tops (sweet potato leaves) – tender and nutritious
- Mushrooms – add umami and meaty texture
***HOT TIP: My biggest tip for using kabocha squash is to microwave it whole in 1 minute increments until slightly softened, therefore it's easier to handle and cut through. Give this tip a try it is a GAME CHANGER! :)
Hi, I’m Krizell, a third culture kid and second-generation Filipino American. I’m passionate about preserving our Filipino heritage through food and hope you give these recipes a try!
Ingredients (14)
Ingredients (14)
Instructions
In a shallow pot, heat up oil (1–2 Tbsp). Once oil is hot add in all aromatics (ginger (1 knob), onion (¼ whole), and garlic (4 cloves)). Saute until fragrant.
Add in pork (½ lb) and cook until browned.
Add in fish sauce ( to taste) and shrimp bouillon (½). Mix well to combine.
Add in squash (½ small) and coconut milk (1 can). Cover and cook until squash is soft and tender, approx. 10 min. To check, stick a fork into the squash, if the fork pierces easily, you’re good.
Add in green beans (1 handful) and shrimp (½ lb) over the top. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes or fully cooked.
Once done, give everything a good mix. Adjust seasonings to your liking.
Serve over white rice. Enjoy!
