The Philippines is renowned for its vibrant cuisine, which often features a medley of colorful vegetables in various dishes. From sweet and sour pinakbet to creamy ginataang kalabasa at sitaw, Filipino vegetable recipes are not only delicious but also reflective of the country’s cultural heritage. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouthwatering Filipino vegetable recipes that showcase the diversity and richness of Pinoy cuisine.
Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new flavors or a cook seeking inspiration for your next meal, these recipes are sure to delight. So, grab your apron and let’s get started!
Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw
Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw Recipe
A classic Filipino dish that combines the sweetness of gata (coconut milk) with the spiciness of kalabasa (pumpkin) and sitaw (string beans). This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the rich flavors of the Philippines.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized kalabasa, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated ginger
– 1/4 cup ginataan (coconut milk)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Heat cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cubed kalabasa and string beans, stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the ginataan (coconut milk), season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pinakbet with Bagoong
A classic Filipino dish that combines the flavors of taro tops, eggplant, and tomatoes with a savory bagoong sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro tops, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup bagoong (fermented shrimp paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add eggplant and taro tops; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, garlic, and bagoong; stir well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Laing with Coconut Milk
This traditional Filipino dish is a flavorful and comforting stew made with coconut milk, meat or seafood, and spices. Here’s a simple recipe to make Laing with Coconut Milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or beef brisket, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork or beef, coconut milk, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender.
3. Add fish sauce (if using) and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Adobong Kangkong
This classic Filipino dish is a flavorful and spicy stir-fry made with water spinach, succulent shrimp, and chili peppers. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of water spinach (kangkong), cleaned and drained
– 250g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium-hot chili peppers, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the chopped chili peppers and minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add the water spinach to the pan and stir-fry until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir in fish sauce (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ensaladang Talong
Ensaladang Talong is a popular Filipino condiment made from grilled eggplants, onions, and tomatoes. This sweet and sour relish is often served as a side dish or used as an ingredient in various Filipino recipes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the eggplants with oil and season with salt. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine grilled eggplant, chopped onion, and tomatoes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the eggplant mixture and toss to coat.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sinigang na Gulay
A classic Filipino dish that showcases the bold flavors of tamarind and the richness of pork, Sinigang na Gulay is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup tamarind broth (sinigang mix)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetables of your choice (e.g., tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork, water, tamarind broth, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until pork is tender.
3. Add vegetables and continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes or until they are tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tortang Talong
Tortang Talong is a popular Filipino dish that combines the richness of eggplants with the savory flavor of eggs. This simple recipe yields crispy and flavorful fritters that are perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Grill the eggplant slices until tender and lightly charred, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, and salt.
3. Dip each grilled eggplant slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated eggplant slices until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Chopsuey Filipino-Style
Chopsuey, a popular Filipino dish, is a hearty and flavorful stir-fry made with beef, vegetables, and noodles. This recipe combines tender beef strips with crunchy vegetables and springy noodles in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as pancit or egg noodles)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked noodles; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Pour sauce into the pan and stir to combine with vegetables and noodles.
7. Return beef strips to the pan; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Ginisang Upo with Shrimp
Experience the comforting fusion of Filipino flavors with this simple and delicious recipe. Ginisang Upo, a classic vegetable dish, gets an exciting twist by adding succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup upo (pandanus leaves) chopped
– 1/2 cup shrimp peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic minced
– 1 small onion diced
– 1 medium tomato diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Patis (fish sauce) or salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic, onion, and shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped upo, tomato, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes or until the upo is tender.
5. Season with patis (fish sauce) or salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Atchara (Pickled Papaya)
A popular Filipino condiment, Atchara is a tangy and sweet pickling of papaya that pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, and even as a side dish. This recipe yields a flavorful and crunchy atchara that’s perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized papayas (about 1 lb)
– 1 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh garlic
Instructions:
1. Peel the papayas and cut them into small pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the papaya pieces, vinegar, sugar, water, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat all the papaya evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours for optimal flavor and texture.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped garlic over the pickled papaya.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (refrigeration time)
Bulanglang na Hipon
This classic Pinoy dish is a flavorful and easy-to-make stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp with a medley of vegetables, all cooked in a savory tomato-based sauce. Serve it over steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 250g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as tomatoes, bell peppers, and snow peas)
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until they start to soften.
4. Add shrimp; stir-fry until pink and cooked through.
5. Pour in tomato sauce; season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ginataang Langka
A classic Filipino dessert made with langka (jackfruit), coconut milk, and spices. This sweet and creamy treat is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup langka (jackfruit) flesh
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine langka flesh, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Mix cornstarch with a little water until smooth, then add to the saucepan. Stir constantly for another 5 minutes or until the mixture is creamy and bubbly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paksiw na Puso ng Saging
Paksiw na Puso ng Saging is a popular Filipino dish that combines the flavors of stewed banana hearts with vinegar, garlic, and spices. This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare this unique ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 banana hearts (puso ng saging)
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Peel the banana hearts and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
2. Heat oil or butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the banana heart slices, vinegar, fish sauce (if using), black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the banana hearts are tender.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kilawin na Kangkong
A refreshing Filipino dish made with kangkong (water spinach), vinegar, and spices, Kilawin na Kangkong is a perfect side dish or snack for any occasion. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of kangkong (water spinach)
– 2 tablespoons of vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Wash the kangkong leaves and stems in cold water, then drain well.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the kangkong to the pan and stir-fry until wilted.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the vinegar, fish sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper.
7. Pour the vinegar mixture over the kangkong and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes more.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ginisang Ampalaya with Egg
A classic Filipino dish that combines the pungency of bitter melon with the richness of eggs, Ginisang Ampalaya with Egg is a simple yet satisfying meal. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bitter melon (ampalaya), sliced into thin rounds
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the sliced bitter melon and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the beaten eggs and stir well to combine with the ampalaya mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pancit Canton with Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious Chinese-inspired noodle dish, Pancit Canton is a staple in many Filipino households. This recipe adds a colorful twist by incorporating a variety of vegetables for added nutrition and visual appeal.
Ingredients:
– 200g pancit canton noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 cup cooked chicken or pork, diced
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pancit canton noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender-crisp.
5. Add cooked meat; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry until combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lumpiang Gulay
Lumpiang gulay is a popular Filipino vegetable spring roll that’s perfect as an appetizer or snack. This recipe uses a mixture of sautéed vegetables and bean sprouts wrapped in a crispy egg wrapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Egg wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or at an Asian market)
– Water for wrapping
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic, cabbage, carrots, and scallions. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the bean sprouts and cook for another minute.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Lay an egg wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
6. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the lumpia. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes to prepare the filling, and an additional 5-7 minutes to wrap the lumpias.
Dinengdeng with Fish
A classic Filipino dish, Dinengdeng is a refreshing and flavorful vegetable stew that pairs perfectly with grilled fish. This recipe combines the two for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillet (such as tilapia or catfish), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium-sized taro roots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add fish pieces and cook until browned on both sides (about 5 minutes). Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, and taro roots to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender (about 8-10 minutes).
4. Add cooked fish back into the pan and pour in water. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to experience the flavors of the Philippines with these 18 delicious and authentic vegetable recipes! From classic dishes like Pinakbet with Bagoong and Sinigang na Gulay, to innovative creations like Ginataang Langka and Pakisaw na Puso ng Saging, this collection has something for everyone. Discover how to prepare traditional favorites like Laing with Coconut Milk, Adobong Kangkong, and Chopsuey Filipino-Style, as well as modern twists on old recipes. With a focus on fresh vegetables, bold flavors, and rich textures, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Philippines.
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