Asian > Filipino > Vegetarian Filipino

Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 medium-sized kalabasa (squash), peeled and cubed
- 1 bundle sitaw (string beans), cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 can coconut milk (400ml)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Special equipment needed:
- None

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large pan or wok, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the kalabasa and sitaw. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the coconut milk. Add salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Stir well.
5. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot with rice.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 236 kcal
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of kalabasa, you can use butternut squash or pumpkin.
- Instead of sitaw, you can use green beans or snow peas.
- You can use fresh coconut milk instead of canned.

Variations:
- Add shrimp or chicken for a non-vegetarian version.
- Add other vegetables like eggplant, okra, or bok choy.
- Use different spices like turmeric, cumin, or coriander.

Tips and tricks:
- Be careful not to overcook the vegetables, as they can become mushy.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your preference.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little water to thin it out.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large bowl or platter.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.

Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro or green onions.

Pairings:
- Serve with steamed rice.

Suggested side dishes:
- Crispy fried tofu or tempeh.
- Grilled fish or chicken.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken.
- If the vegetables are not cooked through, add a little more liquid and let it simmer for a few more minutes.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash all vegetables before using.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
- Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.

Food history:
- Ginataang kalabasa at sitaw is a popular Filipino dish that originated in the Southern Tagalog region.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, savory, and slightly sweet.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner.

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Region: Philippine

Taste: Savory, Spicy, Tangy, Aromatic, Creamy, savory, slightly sweet, coconutty