This Ginataang Monggo recipe, also known as a coconut milk mung bean dish, is healthy, vegan…and exudes savory comfort. This Filipino recipe is not only flavorful but also packed with nutritious ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Explore what ginataang monggo is and the step-by-step recipe to make this one-pot, dinner idea you’re sure to love.
Table of contents
What Is Ginataang Monggo?
Ginataang monggo (monggo means mung bean) stands out as a quintessential Filipino comfort food, distinguished by its unique combination of mung beans gently simmered in rich coconut milk.
Ginataang refers to cooking in coconut milk…and considering that coconut is one of the big natural resources of the Philippines, you can be sure to hear the word “ginataang” frequently when it comes to home cooking.
This lip-smacking coconut milk mung bean dish holds a beloved spot in the heart of Filipino cuisine, frequently gracing dining tables as both a wholesome main course and a nourishing snack.
The secret to the ginataang monggo recipe appeal lies in the harmonious blend of the mung beans’ subtle, earthy tones with the creamy, luxurious texture of coconut milk.
Many times, this dish is traditionally made with pork added…but this recipe is ALL vegan. I love that everyone can try tasting Filipino cuisine and giving this coconut mung bean dish a try.
Ginataang monggo is a bridge between simple, traditional cooking and the modern quest for dishes that are not only comforting but also health-conscious and inclusive.
Coconut milk mung bean caters to diverse dietary preferences including veganism which personally, I love to practice weekly when cooking my family meals.
What are Mung Beans and Their Benefits
Mung beans (aka monggo beans) small yet mighty legumes, pack a powerful nutritional punch essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
I ate a lot of these guys growing up and not only are they kid-friendly, but they are filling and perfect for healthy recipes.
- Mung beans are small legumes commonly used in Asian cuisine.
- They are native to the Indian subcontinent and are extensively cultivated in India, China, and Southeast Asia.
- In Asian culinary traditions, mung beans are utilized in a variety of dishes, including curries, soups, and desserts.
- Mung beans are a versatile ingredient, featuring prominently in both savory and sweet recipes, showcasing their adaptability in Asian cooking.
- High protein, high fiber, and contains vitamins
- Easily found in Asian and Filipino food stores and many major grocery stores.
This coconut milk mung bean recipe is a great way to break up the usual meals, incorporate into Meatless Mondays, and of course…try something new that you just might love!
Mung Beans Color
Mung beans are green. Inside they are yellow.
Yellow mung beans have been hulled and split.
Either one is fine for this recipe.
Ginataang Monggo Calories
Expect the VEGAN version of this coconut milk mung bean stew to be very healthy and a much lighter recipe than traditional Filipino ginataang monggo recipe. Without the pork, the fat and calories is reduced significantly.
This dish is about 400 calories per serving/cup, but will vary on the actual serving.
What is great, is the satisfaction, flavor, and protein is all there in vegan coconut mongoo. Considering everyday type of meals and weekly recipes for the family, the vegan version is my go-to!
It’s light, lower fat, lower calories. Depending on the measurements and amount of food you eat (and I always eat seconds) you can still consider that the dish is reasonable.
Adjust the fish sauce or salt according to your diet needs.
Lastly, the calorie content is mostly adjusted by the coconut milk. Coconut milk calories can vary depending on the brand and whether it is full-fat, light, or homemade. However, here are some general estimates:
- Full-fat coconut milk: Approximately 445-450 calories per cup (240 ml).
- Light coconut milk: Approximately 150-170 calories per cup (240 ml).
Always check the nutrition label on the specific brand of coconut milk you are using for the most accurate information.
I also always recommend full fat, regular coconut milk for and deeper level of flavor in the recipe…but the light version still works!! I have used light coconut milk for ginataang monggo and it is saucy and delicious, too.
Ingredients for Ginataang monggo Recipe
- 1 cup Mung Beans – green or yellow
- 1 can, 14 oz Real, Regular Coconut Milk
- 1 1/2 cup of Vegetable Broth
- 4 cloves of garlic – finely minced
- 2 tbsp ginger – finely minced or julienned
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 5 Sichuan Red Dry Peppers – optional for spicey; leave whole
- 1 tbsp vegan fish sauce – or use 1 tsp of salt to taste; or regular fish sauce
- Boy Choy – or greens like Spinach
- Salt and Pepper – adjusted to taste, for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the dish.
- Oil – to saute the garlic and ginger
- Scallions – garnish
Equipment
- Dutch Oven or Large Pot
- Mixing Spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soaking mung beans for this coconut milk mung bean recipe is not required, but will lessen cook time if you wish to do so. If you soak them, soak them for 8 hours. Otherwise, skip this step.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a touch of oil. Sauté the finely minced garlic, ginger, add the bay leaves, and the peppers, sautéing until the mixture becomes aromatic.
- Add the coconut milk, vegetable broth, and fish sauce.
- Add the mung beans and stir well.
- Cover, over low heat, for 45 minutes and add time as needed. Stir occasionally.
- Check that the mung beans are fully cooked and tender.
- Add in the bok choy or greens. Season the dish with salt and pepper.
- Once the greens are wilted, serve and enjoy ginataang monggo.
Notes
- Soak the mung beans overnight for a faster cook time, although it is not ncessary.
- While the traditional recipe emphasizes pork, don’t hesitate to tailor the dish to your dietary needs or flavor preferences with additional ingredients such as tofu, added vegetables, or mushrooms like Shiitake mushrooms.
- Lightly sautéing the garlic, ginger, and spices is essential to flavor the coconut milk.
Add-Ins and Variations
- Add curry powder or turmeric for added color and spice.
- Include 3 threads of saffron for coloring if using
- Try spices like chili flakes or paprika.
- Mix in veggies like kale, red bell pepper, or potatoes.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Enhance the enjoyment of ginataang mung bean by considering its accompaniments carefully. This enhances the flavor of the coconut milk and moongo and adds more texture and depth to the dish.
- For a traditional approach, serve alongside steamed jasmine or brown rice, allowing the grains to soak up the flavorful coconut broth, making for a hearty and fulfilling meal.
- If you prefer a lighter option, crusty bread or flatbread serves as a delightful alternative, perfect for dipping and savoring the creamy sauce.
- A refreshing counterbalance to the rich flavors of the mung bean dish can be achieved with a side of pickled vegetables, calamansi, or lemon…their tanginess cutting through the creaminess with crisp contrast.
Questions
Can I substitute dried mung beans with canned ones in this recipe?
I will advise not to do so, especially if it is your first time to make this coconut mung bean recipe. Although using canned mung beans is a quicker option, opting for dried beans is recommended to achieve the full depth of flavor and preferred texture that this dish traditionally offers.
Is this dish gluten free?
Absolutely, this ginataang mung bean recipe is gluten-free, serving as a safe and delicious option for individuals with gluten intolerance.
How can I increase the protein content in this vegan dish?
Adding cubed previously frozen tofu is an excellent way to boost the protein content. It blends well with the creamy texture and flavors of the dish, enhancing its nutritional value without compromising on taste.
Can I replace with lentils?
Absolutely. If you cannot access mung beans then lentils are the best substitute.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, ginataang monggo reheats well and can even taste better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just ensure to store it properly in the refrigerator in an airtight container and gently reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this?
Yes, freeze in a very airtight container, defrost, and then reheat slowly.
Dishes Not To Miss
Coconut milk is a magic ingredient and makes so many incredible recipes. Some of these include:
Did you try and like this recipe? Please leave stars in the recipe card below, comment, or share if you feel inclined. Thank you for the love!
Vegan Ginataang Monggo (Coconut Milk Mung Bean Recipe)
Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven with lid
- mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup Mung Beans green or yellow
- 1 can 14 oz Real, Regular Coconut Milk
- 1 ½ cup Vegetable Broth
- 4 cloves garlic finely minced
- 2 tbsp ginger finely minced or julienned
- 2 pieces Bay Leaves
- 5 pieces Sichuan Red Dry Peppers optional for spicey; leave whole
- 1 tbsp vegan fish sauce or use 1 tsp of salt to taste; or regular fish sauce
- 3 bunches Baby Boy Choy or greens like Spinach
- 1 tbsp Oil to saute the garlic and ginger
- Salt and Pepper adjusted to taste for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the dish.
- ½ cup Scallions thin sliced
Instructions
- Soaking mung beans for this coconut milk mung bean recipe is not required, but will lessen cook time if you wish to do so. If you soak them, soak them for 8 hours. Otherwise, skip this step.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a touch of oil. Sauté the finely minced garlic, ginger, add the bay leaves, and the peppers, sautéing until the mixture becomes aromatic.4 cloves garlic, 2 tbsp ginger, 2 pieces Bay Leaves, 1 tbsp Oil, 5 pieces Sichuan Red Dry Peppers
- Add the coconut milk, vegetable broth, and vegan fish sauce.1 can 14 oz Real, Regular Coconut Milk, 1 ½ cup Vegetable Broth, 1 tbsp vegan fish sauce
- Add the mung beans and stir well.1 cup Mung Beans
- Cover, over low heat, for 45 minutes and add time as needed. Stir occasionally.Check that the mung beans are fully cooked and tender.
- Add in the bok choy or greens. Season the dish with salt and pepper.3 bunches Baby Boy Choy, Salt and Pepper
- Once the greens are wilted, remove from the heat.½ cup Scallions
- Serve and enjoy ginataang monggo with lots of thin sliced scallions sprinkled all over the top.
Notes
- Soak the mung beans overnight for a faster cook time, although it is not ncessary.
- While the traditional recipe emphasizes pork, don’t hesitate to tailor the dish to your dietary needs or flavor preferences with additional ingredients such as tofu, added vegetables, or mushrooms like Shiitake mushrooms.
- Lightly sautéing the garlic, ginger, and spices is essential to flavor the coconut milk.
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