If you’re anything like me, you’ve got a soft spot for dishes cooked in creamy, flavorful gata (coconut milk). There’s just something comforting about that rich, coconut taste that instantly reminds you of home.
Today, I’m excited to share 10 of our favorite ginataan recipes — from savory ulam to sweet, comforting desserts. These dishes are packed with Filipino flavor and perfect for anyone who loves cooking with coconut milk. Let’s dig in!
Savory Ginataan Ulam Recipes
This dish feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Tender chicken and soft green papaya simmer in a creamy coconut sauce that’s mild, comforting, and perfect for the whole family. Simple to make, but full of flavor!
A healthy and hearty mix of kalabasa (squash) and sitaw (string beans), cooked in gata with plump shrimp. I love using fresh coconut milk when I can find it, but canned works just fine. It’s a great way to enjoy your veggies — creamy, savory, and satisfying.
Pan-fried tilapia simmered in garlic, ginger, and coconut milk. It’s a simple recipe that turns into something special with the addition of gata. Perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight meal.
Get ready for some heat! This Bicolano classic features pork belly cooked in spicy coconut milk with chili peppers. It’s rich, creamy, and fiery all at once. Want to tone down the spice? Just remove the chili seeds.
Pinakbet sa Gata
Love pinakbet? Try adding gata for a creamy twist. The coconut milk softens the earthy flavors of the vegetables and adds a comforting richness to every bite. A must-try for veggie lovers!
Coconut Dishes with Pork or Chicken
Pork Binagoongan sa Gata
Take the bold, salty-sweet flavors of binagoongan and mellow them out with coconut milk. The result? A rich, savory dish that’s perfectly balanced. Salty, creamy, and totally addictive.
Ginataang Adobo
Yes, adobo in coconut milk is a thing and it’s amazing. The gata makes the pork super tender and adds a velvety texture to the sauce. It’s a delicious twist on a classic.
This creamy coconut curry is a staple in many Pinoy homes. It’s mildly spiced, kid-friendly, and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables. That thick, savory coconut sauce is always a hit at our table.
Sweet Ginataan Treats
You didn’t think we’d forget dessert, did you? Ginataan is just as irresistible in sweet form. Here are some classics worth adding to your recipe list:
- Ginataang Bilo-Bilo – Sticky rice balls in sweet coconut milk
- Ginataang Mais – Corn and sticky rice simmered in creamy gata
- Ginataang Halo-Halo – A warm mix of fruits, root crops, and sticky rice in coconut milk
These are perfect for merienda or an after-meal treat.
Why We Love Cooking with Gata
Coconut milk is like magic in Filipino cooking. It adds richness, balances bold flavors, and transforms simple dishes into something memorable. Whether you’re cooking fish, vegetables, pork, or chicken, gata brings that creamy, comforting taste that just feels like home.
And if you’re making dessert, don’t forget about latik. Tthose golden coconut curds left after simmering coconut cream. They’re the perfect finishing touch for many sweet ginataan dishes.
Try These Ginataan Recipes Today
There you have it! 10 (and counting!) delicious ginataan recipes to bring creamy, coconut goodness to your table. Whether you’re craving something savory or sweet, there’s a dish here that’s sure to hit the spot. Try them out and let me know which one becomes your new favorite!
Note: If you’re using canned coconut milk, you can adjust the thickness by adding a bit of water to match your preferred texture, especially for dishes like ginataang gulay.
Related posts:
Top 15 Classic Filipino Ulam Recipes You Need to Try
15 Easy Filipino Ulam Recipes for Busy Weeknights
12 Filipino Comfort Food Recipes That Taste Like Home
12 Easy and Simple Pinoy Beef Recipes You Can Cook
10 Classic Pork Recipes That Never Fail
10 Sweet and Savory Tilapia Recipes You Should Try – Filipino-Style Favorites
