Coconuts are a staple in Filipino cuisine, adding a rich, creamy flavor to various dishes. From savory stews to sweet desserts, the versatility of coconuts knows no bounds. Let’s explore four delectable Filipino coconut dishes that incorporate this tropical delight.
Firstly, let’s start with a classic Filipino favorite – Chicken Adobo.
1. Chicken Adobo with Coconut Milk
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into pieces
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recipe:
- In a pot, combine chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, onion, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Add coconut milk and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until chicken is tender and sauce thickens.
- Serve hot with rice.
Next up, let’s explore a comforting soup with a tropical twist.
2. Ginataang Kalabasa (Squash in Coconut Milk)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups squash, cubed
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced
- 2 pieces green chili (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recipe:
- In a pot, sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant.
- Add squash and cook for 3 minutes.
- Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
- Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with green chilies if desired.
- Serve hot with steamed rice.
Moving on to a popular street food turned into a flavorful meal.
3. Bicol Express
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork belly, sliced into strips
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2-3 pieces red chili peppers, chopped
- 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced
- Fish sauce to taste
Recipe:
- In a pan, sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until aromatic.
- Add pork belly and cook until lightly browned.
- Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
- Add red chili peppers and simmer until pork is tender.
- Season with fish sauce according to taste.
- Serve hot with rice.
Finally, let’s satisfy our sweet cravings with a beloved Filipino dessert.
4. Buko Pandan Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups young coconut strips (buko)
- 1 cup condensed milk
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 1 cup tapioca pearls, cooked
- 1 pack pandan-flavored gelatin, cubed
- 1 cup nata de coco (coconut jelly)
- Ice cubes (optional)
Recipe:
- In a bowl, combine young coconut strips, condensed milk, coconut cream, tapioca pearls, pandan gelatin, and nata de coco.
- Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
- Serve cold with ice cubes if desired.
These four Filipino coconut dishes showcase the diverse use of coconuts in culinary delights. Whether it’s savory or sweet, coconut adds a unique tropical flavor that truly elevates the dining experience. Try these recipes and immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine.