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Ginataang Isda

A comforting Filipino dish featuring fish cooked in creamy coconut milk, often enjoyed with rice.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Filipino
Keyword: Coconut Milk, comfort food, Easy Dinner, Filipino fish stew, ginataang isda
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Fish and Coconut Milk

  • 4 pieces Tilapia (or other suitable fish) Can also use Bangus or Mackerel.
  • 1 can Coconut milk Use full-fat for best results.

Vegetables

  • 1 cup Eggplant, chopped Add early for soft texture.
  • 1 cup Pechay or Spinach Add last before serving.
  • 1 piece Red chili Optional, for heat.

Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon Fish sauce (patis) Optional for additional flavor.
  • to taste Salt Sprinkle into the coconut milk.
  • to taste Black pepper Add after salt.
  • 1 piece Calamansi or lime Optional, for a tangy finish.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Choose fresh fish and prepare by cleaning thoroughly.
  • If using fresh coconut, grate and squeeze the milk; otherwise, shake the can of coconut milk well.

Cooking

  • In a large pot, gently slide the fish into the coconut milk over low to medium heat.
  • Cook for 10 to 20 minutes, flipping the fish carefully to keep it intact.
  • Add chopped eggplant and allow it to soften before adding pechay or spinach at the end.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and fish sauce, stirring gently.

Serving

  • Serve the ginataang isda hot, with a generous portion of rice on the side.
  • Pour extra coconut sauce over the rice and add sliced chilies or green mango if desired.

Notes

Leftovers may thicken due to the coconut milk. Add a splash of water when reheating. Serve with sweet treats like leche flan for a complete meal.