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Ginisang Monggo with Kalabasa

Ginisang Monggo is a traditional Filipino stew made from mung beans that are simmered until soft and creamy. “Ginisang” means sautéed, so this dish starts with a flavorful base of garlic, onions, and tomatoes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Mung Beans Monggo – These small green legumes are full of fiber and protein. They soften into a thick stew after simmering.
  • Kalabasa Calabaza Squash – Adds a natural sweetness and creamy texture to the dish.
  • Spinach or Malunggay Leaves – Leafy greens that balance the richness with freshness.
  • Tomatoes Onion, and Garlic – The classic trifecta that forms the aromatic base.
  • Salted Small Fish Dilis or Anchovy Substitute – Optional but adds depth and umami.
  • Soy Sauce or Liquid Seasoning – For flavor-enhancing saltiness.
  • Ground Black Pepper – For mild heat and flavor.
  • Neutral Cooking Oil – Such as canola or sunflower oil for sautéing.
  • Water – For boiling the mung beans and creating the stew.

Method
 

Step 1: Soak the Mung Beans
  1. Start by soaking the mung beans in water for several hours or overnight. This softens them and cuts down the cooking time.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. In a deep pot, heat some cooking oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until golden. Toss in the chopped onion and tomatoes and cook until soft and aromatic.
Step 3: Add the Mung Beans
  1. Drain the soaked mung beans and add them to the pot. Stir well to coat the beans in the sautéed aromatics.
Step 4: Pour in Water and Simmer
  1. Add water and a splash of soy sauce or your preferred liquid seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the mung beans are soft and starting to thicken. This may take 35 to 45 minutes depending on how long they were soaked.
Step 5: Add the Kalabasa
  1. Once the mung beans are tender, add the diced squash. Let it simmer until the squash is cooked through but not mushy—about 10 to 12 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Greens
  1. Add your leafy greens and let them wilt for a minute or two. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce or black pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Serve hot with steamed rice. If you like a bit of texture, add crispy tofu cubes or roasted seeds as a topping.