This Ginataang Galunggong recipe transforms humble round scad fish into a luxurious coconut milk-infused stew that's both comforting and flavorful. The fish is first lightly fried to seal in its juices, then simmered in a rich, creamy coconut sauce with ginger, chili, and leafy greens. This classic Filipino dish perfectly balances the natural sweetness of coconut milk with the savory depth of fish sauce, creating a meal that's hearty enough for family dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
✔ Double coconut goodness - Uses both coconut milk and cream ✔ Perfect texture - Crispy fried fish in creamy sauce ✔ Customizable heat - Adjust chili amount to preference ✔ Nutritious - Packed with protein and vegetables
Pro Tips
🐟 Fish alternatives - Use tilapia or milkfish if galunggong unavailable 🌶 Heat control - Remove chili seeds for milder flavor 🥥 Coconut tips - Shake cans well before opening 🔥 Prevent curdling - Don't boil vigorously after adding cream
Serving Suggestions
🍚 With hot rice - Essential for soaking up the sauce 🍋 Calamansi on side - Brightens the rich flavors 🥗 With grilled vegetables - For a complete meal
Storage Tips
❄️ Refrigerate - Consume within 2 days 🔥 Reheating - Gently warm to prevent oil separation 🚫 Freezing - Not recommended as coconut sauce may separate
"This Ginataang Galunggong brings together the sea's bounty and the tropics' creaminess in one unforgettable dish that's both comforting and special!"
Perfect for: • Family Sunday lunches • Lenten meals • Coastal-inspired dinners • When craving creamy seafood
For more recipes feel free to browse out recipe archive in your convenient time. Watch our step by step video tutorial on Youtube: Ginataang Galunggong
This Ginataang Galunggong recipe transforms humble round scad fish into a luxurious coconut milk-infused stew that's both comforting and flavorful. The fish is first lightly fried to seal in its juices, then simmered in a rich, creamy coconut sauce with ginger, chili, and leafy greens. This classic Filipino dish perfectly balances the natural sweetness of coconut milk with the savory depth of fish sauce, creating a meal that's hearty enough for family dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Components:
1kg galunggong, cleaned (round scad)
2cups coconut milk (second extraction)
1cup coconut cream (first extraction/kakang gata)
Aromatics & Vegetables:
1red onion, minced
1thumb-sized ginger, julienned
3red chilies (siling labuyo)
3long green chilies (siling haba)
2 pechay, cut (bok choy)
Seasonings:
2tbsp fish sauce (patis)
1tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
salt and pepper to taste
cooking oil for frying and sautéing
Instructions
Prep & Fry the Fish
1
Peel, mince the garlic and onions. Slice the ginger then cut the pechay.
2
Clean the fish guts them all and rinse water to remove blood.
3
Season fish with salt & pepper. Let sit for 10 mins.
4
Heat oil in a pan. Fry fish 3-4 mins per side until golden. Set aside.
Sauté the Base
5
Clean the pan or use another pan, add oil and sauté garlic until golden, then add onion and ginger. Cook until fragrant (~2 mins).
Simmer in Coconut Milk
6
Arrange fried fish in the pan. Pour in thin coconut milk (second press) and add fish sauce.
7
Cover and simmer for 5 mins (no stirring to keep fish intact).
Add Cream & Veggies
8
Stir in coconut cream (first press) pure kakang gata and add sugar to balance the taste. Simmer uncovered for 2 mins.
9
Add pechay and green chilies. Cover until greens wilt (~2 mins).
Final Touch
10
Add red chilies (if using). Adjust seasoning with salt/pepper.