This comforting Ginataang Inihaw na Talong (Grilled Eggplant with Coconut Milk) is a quick and easy recipe. You can make it in under 30 minutes. It's a favorite in my house because of the simple ingredients. Hopefully, it will be a family favorite in your house, too.
Give these flavorful Menudong Gulay or Paksing Demonyo a try as well!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Ginataang Talong recipe is dairy-free and beginner-friendly. It's a great option for anyone trying more vegan meals while keeping the flavor. The grilled eggplant and coconut milk mix creates a naturally creamy and smoky taste.
It's very healthy. Eggplant is rich in fiber and antioxidants. Coconut milk provides healthy fats that make the dish filling and satisfying. Together, they create a meal that’s both nourishing and comforting — perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Plus, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up with just a few ingredients. It's a quick recipe ideal for anyone who loves homey Filipino cooking.
The Story Behind Ginataang Inihaw na Talong
Ginataang Inihaw na Talong is a "Ginataang" recipe. Ginataan recipes are any dish cooked with coconut milk. And these types of dishes are often served in gatherings or simple home meals.
This particular version adds a smoky twist by grilling the eggplants first, infusing that distinct "ihaw" flavor that reminds many of backyard cooking and family Sundays.
Where Ginataang Inihaw na Talong Comes From
This dish was made in rural provinces where many coconut trees and eggplants grow. It might have started as a way to use everyday ingredients. But over time, it spread across the country and became a beloved comfort food. Filipino home cooks passed it down to serve those who love simple yet flavorful meals.
When Is This Dish Typically Enjoyed?
It is often enjoyed during lunch or dinner with warm rice. It’s especially comforting during the rainy season. It’s also a go-to for meatless days like Fridays or during Holy Week when Filipinos prepare more plant-based meals.
Ingredients
Listed below are all the ingredients you will need:
- eggplants
- tomatoes
- white onion
- red bell pepper
- leeks or green onions
- coconut cream
- chili peppers
- salt
- pepper
See the recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Grill the Eggplants
1. Wash all ingredients and preheat grill pan to 250°F (120°C).
2. Prick eggplants on all sides to prevent them from bursting during grilling.
3. Place eggplants on the grill and turn frequently to cook evenly.
4. Grill until skins are dark brown or black and the flesh is soft to the touch.
5. Allow grilled eggplants to cool, then peel off the skins.
6. Slice each eggplant into four parts and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Assemble the Dish
7. Add tomatoes, onions, bell pepper, and leeks or green onions to the eggplant.
8. Pour in coconut cream and gently mix until well combined.
9. Add chili peppers if desired for spice.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
11. Best served immediately while warm.
Substitutions & Variations
- Ingredient Swap
Use grilled zucchini, okra, or even tofu instead of eggplant.
Avoiding salt? Use mushroom seasoning. You can find this at your local Asian market or Trader Joes. - Variation
Toss in some sliced chili or a bit of ginger for extra spice. - Mistake to Avoid
Don't overcook the eggplant! It should stay tender, not mushy.
NOTE: If the flesh is green and tender, it’s perfectly grilled. - Storage Tips
- This dish doesn’t freeze well because of the coconut milk’s texture. But it keeps beautifully in the fridge for 2-3 days.
- Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on low heat before serving.
FAQs
Ginataang Inihaw na Talong (Grilled Eggplant with Coconut Milk)
Ingredients
- 4 medium eggplants
- 5 tomatoes chopped
- 1 small white onion chopped
- 1 red bell pepper julienned
- 1 tablespoon leeks or green onions
- 1 ½ cups coconut cream
- Chili peppers optional
- ½ tablespoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Grill the Eggplants
- Wash all ingredients and preheat grill pan to 250°F (120°C).
- Prick eggplants on all sides to prevent them from bursting during grilling.
- Place eggplants on the grill and turn frequently to cook evenly.
- Grill until skins are dark brown or black and the flesh is soft to the touch.
- Allow grilled eggplants to cool, then peel off the skins.
- Tip: If the flesh is green and tender, it’s perfectly grilled.
- Slice each eggplant into four parts and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Assemble the Dish
- Add tomatoes, onions, bell pepper, and leeks or green onions to the eggplant.
- Pour in coconut cream and gently mix until well combined.
- Add chili peppers if desired for spice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
- Best served immediately while warm.
Notes
More Filipino Recipes Like This:
Recipes for Every Moment
Want something cozy after a tiring day? This creamy Ginataang Inihaw na Talong is the perfect dish to relax with — rich, smoky, and ready in no time!
Storytelling Time!
This is my all-time favorite eggplant recipe- Grilled Eggplant with Coconut Milk. There's something about grilled eggplant that reminds me of camping when I was a kid.
How about you? What food aroma reminds you of camping? Let me know in the comments. 🙂
Maria getty says
I’m vegan and I miss Filipino food. I’m so glad I came across your recipes. Do you have vegan recipe for Laing?
Lainey says
Hi Maria, thank you for swinging by. Yes, I have a vegan recipe for Laing. Kindly check out this link: https://simplybakings.com/vegetarian-ginataang-gabi/
Please tag me a photo if you ever you try this Filipino recipe. 🙂
Dawn A Hutchins says
Love your blog and this recipe looks amazing! Though I eat a plant-based diet, when I go camping someone is always cooking bacon in the morning. So it tends to remind me of camping. It makes me sad too. When we camp I usually make black bean "kalesadillas" with some non-dairy cheese and I also will make whole wheat pasta with tomato sauce and a big salad. Not traditional camping fare but it's easy!
Lainey says
Hi Dawn,
Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing. The foods that you made during camping seem delicious. I hope you can try this recipe too. Enjoy!