When it comes to simple yet delicious Filipino home-cooked dishes, sautéed opo squash—also known as Ginisang Upo—is a comfort food favorite. With its tender texture and flavorful taste, this humble dish turns the mild opo squash into a satisfying meal.
Let’s go through the complete guide to making the best sautéed opo squash that’s healthy, tasty, and easy to cook.
Opo squash, also called bottle gourd or upo in Filipino, is a light-green vegetable with a mild, sweet taste. It’s often used in Filipino cooking for its ability to absorb flavors well. When sautéed, it becomes soft and juicy—perfectly blends with the umami of garlic, onion, and shrimp or ground meat.
To make this delightful Filipino classic, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
| Opo squash (peeled and sliced) | 1 medium (about 2 lbs) | Main vegetable |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | Adds aroma and depth |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | Sweetens and balances flavors |
| Tomatoes (diced) | 2 medium | Adds tangy, rich flavor |
| Cooking oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Basic seasoning |
| Ground pork or shrimp (optional) | ½ lb | Adds protein and savory flavor |
| Fish sauce (patis) | 1 tbsp | Boosts umami taste |
| Water or broth | ½ cup | Helps soften the squash |
1. Prep the Opo Squash
Peel the opo squash, remove the big seeds, and cut into half-moons or cubes. Make sure the pieces are even so they cook evenly.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, then onions and tomatoes. Cook until tomatoes are soft and release juices.
3. Add Protein (Optional)
If using ground pork or shrimp, add now. Stir and cook until the meat changes color and releases oil.
4. Add Opo Squash
Add the sliced opo squash. Mix gently to coat with sautéed aromatics. Cook for a few minutes until it starts to soften.
5. Add Seasoning and Simmer
Pour in water or broth, then add fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer for 5-8 minutes or until the opo squash is tender but not mushy.
6. Taste and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with steamed rice for a Filipino comfort food.
Ginisang Upo with Shrimp
Adds a seafood touch and a hint of sweetness.
Ginisang Upo with Pork
Ground pork makes it richer and heartier—perfect for lunch or dinner.
Skip the meat and use mushrooms or tofu for a lighter version.
Opo squash is a gem for health enthusiasts. It’s:
Sauté your opo squash with:
If you have leftovers (which rarely happens), store them properly to keep them fresh:
Don’t freeze—opo squash loses texture after thawing.
This sautéed opo squash recipe has everything we love about Filipino home cooking—simple ingredients, big flavor, and comfort. Each bite is fresh, opo, fish sauce, and sautéed tomatoes. Budget-friendly, nutritious, and perfect for busy days when you want a homemade meal.
Sautéed opt squash isn’t just a dish—it’s a reminder of Filipino family meals filled with love. Simple, flavorful, and healthy, it’s a kitchen favorite. Whether you cook with shrimp, pork, or just vegetables, Ginisang Upo proves that great flavor comes from simple ingredients.
When it comes to simple, comforting Filipino dishes, Ginisang Upo always hits home. It’s that humble dish you crave on a lazy Sunday afternoon — light, healthy, and so easy to cook! Soft pieces of upo (bottle gourd) soak up the flavours of garlic, onions, and tomatoes. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug from home.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Growing up, my mom would always cook Ginisang Upo on rainy afternoons. The smell of garlic and tomato sizzling in the pan was enough to make everyone rush to the dining table. It’s not fancy, but it’s the kind of food that fills both your tummy and your heart.
Hi, I’m Marisa M. Hsu, a food blogger and recipe creator. I share easy, comforting, and authentic dishes from my kitchen to yours. When I’m not cooking, you’ll find me exploring farmers’ markets, traveling for food inspiration, or enjoying family time around the dinner table.
