Ginataang Seafood Recipe Singapore: A Delicious and Creamy Coconut Milk-Based Dish

If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish, Ginataang Seafood is definitely worth a try. This Filipino dish is made with a variety of seafood cooked in coconut milk, making it rich, creamy, and flavourful. Ginataang Seafood is a popular dish in Singapore, and it's no wonder why. With its unique blend of spices and ingredients, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

To make Ginataang Seafood, you will need a few essential ingredients, such as squid, crab, mussels, shrimp, onion, garlic, ginger, shrimp paste, coconut cream, salt, and pepper. Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you can start preparing the dish. The cooking process is straightforward, and you can follow a step-by-step guide to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly.

Overall, Ginataang Seafood is a must-try dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a new recipe to try, this dish is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious it is?

Key Takeaways

• Ginataang Seafood is a popular Filipino dish made with a variety of seafood cooked in coconut milk.
• Essential ingredients for Ginataang Seafood include squid, crab, mussels, shrimp, onion, garlic, ginger, shrimp paste, coconut cream, salt, and pepper.
• Follow a step-by-step cooking guide to ensure that your Ginataang Seafood turns out perfectly.

Essential Ingredients for Ginataang Seafood

If you're planning to cook Ginataang Seafood, it's essential to have the right ingredients to make it delicious. This dish is a popular Filipino recipe that combines seafood with coconut milk and spices to create a rich, creamy, and flavourful meal. Here are some essential ingredients you need to make Ginataang Seafood in Singapore.

Seafood Selection

The first ingredient you need is seafood. You can use a combination of crab, mussels, squid, and shrimp, or any seafood that you like. Make sure that the seafood you buy is fresh and cleaned properly before cooking. If you're buying frozen seafood, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Coconut Milk Basics

Coconut milk is the main ingredient that gives Ginataang Seafood its creamy texture and coconut flavour. You can use either fresh or canned coconut milk. If you're using canned coconut milk, make sure to shake the can well before opening it. You can also adjust the amount of coconut milk according to your desired consistency and taste.

Aromatic and Spices

To enhance the flavour of Ginataang Seafood, you need to add some aromatic and spices. Here are some ingredients that you can use:

• Garlic: adds a pungent flavour and aroma to the dish.
• Ginger: adds a subtle spiciness and warmth to the dish.
• Onion: adds a sweet and savoury flavour to the dish.
• Chilli: adds some heat to the dish. You can use finger chilli peppers or Thai chilli peppers if you prefer a spicier kick.
• Salt and pepper: enhances flavours and adds zing.

You can also add some vegetables to the dish, such as long beans, squash, or any vegetables that you like. Ginataang Seafood is a versatile dish that you can customise according to your taste.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Preparing the Seafood

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. For this recipe, you will need squid, crab, mussels, and shrimp. Clean the seafood thoroughly and remove any shells or debris. Cut the squid into rings, and separate the crab into pieces.

Cooking Process

1. Heat a tablespoon of canola oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

2. Add a tablespoon of shrimp paste and cook for another minute. This will give the dish a savoury flavour.

3. Pour in 6 cups of coconut cream (kakang gata) and stir well. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.

4. Add the prepared seafood to the pot and stir gently. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the seafood is cooked through.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve hot with steamed rice.

This Ginataang Seafood recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. The creamy coconut sauce adds a rich and savoury flavour to the seafood, making it a crowd-pleaser. With this step-by-step cooking guide, you can make this dish in no time.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Once you have prepared your delicious ginataang seafood recipe, it's time to think about how to serve it. This dish is best enjoyed with steamed rice, which helps to balance out the richness of the coconut milk.

If you're looking to add some extra texture and flavour to your meal, consider serving some crunchy fried garlic on top. This adds a lovely pop of savoury flavour and a satisfying crunch with every bite.

If you're hosting a dinner party or special occasion, ginataang seafood is a great choice. It's easy to prepare in advance and can be served family-style on a large platter. To make things even more festive, consider serving it kamayan-style. This means serving the dish on a bed of banana leaves and eating with your hands. Don't forget to provide crab crackers and picks to make breaking the shells easier and getting to the delicious flesh.

When it comes to drinks, a light and refreshing beverage is the perfect accompaniment to this rich and flavourful dish. A cold glass of iced tea or a crisp beer would be a great choice. If you're feeling fancy, you could even pair it with a chilled glass of white wine.

Overall, ginataang seafood is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you're looking for a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive party dish, this recipe is sure to please.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the secret to a rich and creamy ginataang seafood?

The secret to a rich and creamy ginataang seafood is the use of coconut milk. Make sure to use high-quality coconut milk to achieve the desired consistency and flavour. You can also add a bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce, but be careful not to overdo it as it can affect the texture of the dish.

Can you suggest some seafood combinations for making ginataang?

Yes, you can use a variety of seafood to make ginataang. Some popular combinations include shrimp, crab, mussels, squid, and fish. You can also add vegetables like eggplant, string beans, and squash to make it more nutritious.

How do you properly cook seafood in coconut milk without overcooking it?

To properly cook seafood in coconut milk, you should add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking. Seafood cooks quickly, so it's important to watch it closely. Also, avoid boiling the coconut milk for too long as it can curdle and affect the taste of the dish.

What are the essential spices for an authentic Singaporean ginataang seafood flavour?

The essential spices for an authentic Singaporean ginataang seafood flavour include ginger, garlic, onion, and chillies. You can also add lemongrass, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaves for a more complex flavour. Don't forget to season with fish sauce or salt to taste.

Is there a quick and easy version of ginataang seafood suitable for weeknight dinners?

Yes, you can make a quick and easy version of ginataang seafood by using pre-cooked seafood and canned coconut milk. Simply sauté the aromatics, add the seafood and coconut milk, and simmer until heated through. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.

What are some vegetarian alternatives to seafood for a ginataang dish?

For vegetarian alternatives to seafood in a ginataang dish, you can use tofu, tempeh, or seitan. You can also add vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and bell peppers for added texture and flavour. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as vegetables cook differently than seafood.