Eggplant And Ampalaya Gulay
A savory Filipino vegetable dish featuring tender eggplants and ampalayas simmered in coconut milk with fragrant lemongrass and green onions, perfect for light, healthy meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice eggplants and ampalayas into finger-sized or lengthwise into 4 to 6 slices.
- Place lemongrass in the bottom of a saucepan.
- Layer ampalaya slices and eggplant on top of the lemongrass and cook until desired doneness (crisp, tender, or soft).
- When done, add coconut milk and season with salt or fish sauce (patis).
- Stir gently and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, try adding a teaspoon of turmeric or a dash of chili flakes for heat. If Japanese eggplants are unavailable, any variety will work, but ensure they're firm. Ampalaya can be bitter; soaking them in salt water for 30 minutes can help reduce bitterness. This dish is also versatile and can be prepared as a vegetarian option by omitting fish sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a main course or as a side alongside grilled fish or chicken for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which helps to absorb the coconut milk's creamy flavor. For a refreshing contrast, a side of fresh salad or a bowl of Sour Cream Cabbage can enhance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the vegetables mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant And Ampalaya Gulay contains roughly 68 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 496mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can incorporate other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans for added color and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time according to the vegetables used.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, include sliced chili peppers or a teaspoon of chili paste when adding coconut milk. Adjust to your heat preference, and remember to taste as you go.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time. Just follow the storage instructions to keep it fresh, making it a great option for weekly meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).