Ginat-an nga Tambo (Bamboo Shoot in Coconut Milk)

I would like to share with you all a delicious and healthy Ilonggo recipe – Ginat-an nga Tambo, which is also known as Bamboo Shoot in Coconut Milk. This dish is a staple in many households in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, particularly where Ilonggos reside. The dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will surely satisfy your taste buds. What’s more, it contains superfood ingredients such as okra and saluyot (jute), making it not just tasty but also nutritious.

First, let’s talk about the superfood ingredients in Ginat-an nga Tambo. Okra, also known as lady’s fingers, is a green vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in calories and fat, making it a perfect addition to any diet. Okra is also known for its high antioxidant content, which helps in boosting the immune system and fighting off diseases.

Saluyot or jute is another superfood ingredient in this dish. It is a leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamin A, C, and E. It is also high in iron and calcium, making it beneficial for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Saluyot has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Now, let’s focus on the main ingredient of Ginat-an nga Tambo – bamboo shoot or tambo in local terms. Bamboo shoot is not just a delicious addition to any dish; it also has numerous health benefits. One of its notable benefits is its high fiber content, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. It is also low in calories but high in nutrients such as potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin E.

In addition to its nutritional value, bamboo shoot also has medicinal properties that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of arthritis and fever, respectively. Bamboo shoot also contains phytochemicals that have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

Living in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines has its perks. The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and of course, delicious cuisine. The Ilonggo people are known for their love for food and their expertise in cooking. Their dishes reflect their love for fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and healthy options.

Ginat-an nga Tambo is a perfect example of a dish that is both delicious and healthy. It showcases the traditional cooking methods of the Ilonggo people, using fresh ingredients from their local produce. The dish is usually cooked with whole unshelled shrimp, but some households also use crabs for a richer flavor. Other variations include adding takway or poor man’s asparagus for a slimy texture.

To cook this dish, you will the following ingredients:

garlic
onion
ginger
1/4 kilo shrimp (whole and unshelled)
2 cups shredded bamboo shoot
6 pcs okra
1/2 cup corn kernel
1-1/2 cup coconut milk (1 cup diluted, and 1/2 cup pure)
Saluyot (jute)

The preparation is quite simple; you just need to boil the bamboo shoot in water for about 20-30 minutes and then drain and squeeze to remove excess water. If fresh coconut milk is not available, you can use canned coconut milk or buy grated coconuts from the market.

Once you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! In a pan, sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant. Then add the shrimp and cook until it turns orange. Next, add diluted coconut milk and bring it to a boil. Add the bamboo shoot and let it simmer for about 5 minutes before adding the corn kernel and okra, then add salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, add pure coconut milk and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, then add saluyot leaves. Remove the pan from the heat immediately to prevent the saluyot leaves from turning brown.

Ginat-an nga Tambo is a delicious and healthy Ilonggo recipe that showcases the use of superfood ingredients such as okra, saluyot, and bamboo shoot. Not only is it packed with nutrients and health benefits, but it also reflects the rich culture and love for food of the Ilonggo people. So next time you visit Iloilo or any other parts of the Western Visayas region, don’t forget to try this dish and experience its savory goodness.