Filipino Ginataang Kalabasa
Ginataang Kalabasa is a comforting Filipino stew where squash is simmered in rich coconut milk, often with vegetables like string beans and a protein such as shrimp or pork. It hails from the Philippines and is a staple in everyday home cooking. The dish is known for its creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a balanced source of carbohydrates from the squash and healthy fats from the coconut milk, with moderate protein if meat or seafood is added. It provides a good amount of fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C, with a typical serving ranging from 250-350 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbs | 25 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Vitamin A | 180 µg RAE |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg |
| Folate | 30 µg |
| Manganese | 0.5 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Ginataang Kalabasa is a prime example of the Filipino 'ginataan' cooking method, which uses coconut milk as a base for both savory and sweet dishes. Nutritionally, the squash provides a potent dose of beta-carotene (vitamin A), which is better absorbed by the body thanks to the fats in the coconut milk.
