Ginataang Hipon is a rich and comforting Filipino dish made with fresh shrimp simmered in creamy coconut milk, garlic, onions, and spices. Known for its savory flavor with a hint of natural sweetness from the coconut, this dish perfectly captures the warmth of traditional Filipino home cooking. Best enjoyed with steamed rice, Ginataang Hipon is a simple yet flavorful seafood dish that brings together the freshness of the ocean and the creamy goodness of coconut-based cuisine.
Recipe tips: Keep the shrimp shells on for more flavor. The shells help enrich the coconut sauce. Do not overcook shrimp — they turn rubbery quickly. Once pink and curled, they’re done. Use kakang gata (first press coconut milk) if available for a richer, more authentic flavor. Simmer on low to medium heat to prevent the coconut milk from separating. Ginger helps reduce the “fishy” smell and balances the richness of the coconut milk. If using squash, cut into small cubes so they cook evenly and soften into the sauce.
Substitutions:
Shrimp: prawns, crab, mussels, or firm fish like bangus or tilapia.
Sitaw: pechay, spinach, malunggay, or cabbage.
Squash: sweet potato or green papaya.
Fresh coconut milk: canned coconut milk. For a lighter version, use coconut cream + water.
Fish sauce: soy sauce with a squeeze of calamansi or lime.
Long green chilies: siling labuyo for extra spice, or omit entirely.
What to serve with it: Steamed white rice — the classic pairing. Garlic rice for extra flavor. Fried fish such as Daing na Bangus. Vegetable side dishes like Ensaladang Talong. A cold drink like calamansi juice or iced tea to balance the richness.

