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sinantolan

My Sinantolan Recipe (Ginataang Santol)

My Sinantolan: minced santol fruit in rich coconut cream with pork and chilies for a unique and flavorful dish
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Filipino

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces santol peeled and seeds removed
  • ¼ lb ground pork
  • 3 cups coconut cream
  • 2 pieces long green pepper siling pansigang, sliced crosswise
  • 5 pieces Thai chili or siling labuyo
  • 3 tablespoons shrimp paste (bagoong)
  • 1 medium red onion minced
  • 3 cloves garlic crushed
  • 3 tablespoons cooking oil

Method
 

  1. I start by mincing my santol using my food processor, cutting it into very small pieces. If I don't have a food processor, I do this manually with a knife.
  2. I place my minced santol in the middle of a cheesecloth, and then wring it until all the liquid comes out. This removes most of the sour flavor and allows the fruit to absorb more coconut cream later.
  3. I heat oil in my pan and saute my garlic and onion.
  4. I add my ground pork to the pan and continue cooking until the pork turns light brown.
  5. I add my prepared minced santol to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring to combine everything well.
  6. I pour my coconut cream into the pan and let it come to a boil. Then I stir everything together, cover the pan, and continue cooking over medium heat until the liquid reduces to about half.
  7. I add my shrimp paste (bagoong), siling pansigang and Thai chilies. I stir everything together and continue cooking until the liquid completely evaporates and the mixture becomes thick and creamy.
  8. Once my sinantolan reaches the perfect consistency, I transfer it to a serving plate and serve it hot.
  9. Enjoy your sinantolan!

Notes

  • I always start with 2 tablespoons of shrimp paste and add more gradually. You can always add more, but you can't take it away.
  • I prefer using pork shoulder or pork belly because the fat content makes the dish more flavorful.
  • The juice extraction step is non-negotiable.
  • I love making mine extra spicy, so I often add more chilies. Adjust to your heat preference.
  • Make sure to cook until the liquid completely evaporates. This concentrates all the flavors beautifully.
  • Fresh santol makes all the difference. If you can't find fresh, this dish just won't be the same.
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