Authentic Ginataang Langka Recipe: Taste the Tradition

Ginataang Langka, or jackfruit cooked in coconut milk, is a popular Filipino dish made from unripe jackfruit, simmered in rich coconut milk with a mix of spices and protein, such as shrimp or pork.

This hearty, creamy dish is loved for its balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, making it a comforting meal.

Equipment Needed

Cooking pot or wok

Knife and chopping board

Wooden spoon

Ingredients

500g unripe jackfruit (peeled and sliced)

1 can (400ml) coconut milk

1 cup coconut cream (optional, for added richness)

1 medium onion (chopped)

4 cloves garlic (minced)

1 thumb-sized piece of ginger (sliced)

1-2 green chilies (sliced, optional for spice)

200g shrimp or pork (optional)

2 tbsp cooking oil

2 tbsp fish sauce (or salt to taste)

1 tsp ground black pepper

Water (as needed)

Directions

Preparation time: 10 minutes, Cooking time: 30 minutes, Total time: 40 minutes

Heat the cooking oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté the garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant.

Add the shrimp or pork (if using) and cook until lightly browned.

Stir in the sliced jackfruit and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.

Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the jackfruit becomes tender.

Add the coconut cream (if using) and season with fish sauce and ground black pepper. Add sliced green chilies if you like a bit of spice.

Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the coconut milk from curdling.

Adjust seasoning to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.

How to Serve

Serve Ginataang Langka hot with steamed rice. It pairs well with fried fish or grilled meat as a side dish.

For a vegetarian option, simply omit the shrimp or pork, and the dish is still flavorful with the coconut milk and jackfruit alone.

Variations

For a richer flavor, add coconut cream towards the end of cooking.

Swap out the shrimp or pork for fried tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilies depending on your taste.

Final Word

Ginataang Langka is a must-try dish for those looking for a taste of traditional Filipino comfort food.

Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!