Tinaktak is a Chamorro comfort dish from Guam made with ground beef simmered in coconut milk with onion and vegetables. It is practical, filling, and easy to serve over rice or alongside other simple sides when you want a savory island-style meal.
If you enjoy this style of Pacific cooking, you may also want to try coconut and chilli beef curry, chicken curry the Pacific way.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup green beans or chopped long beans
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pan and drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
- Stir in the tomato and green beans and cook for a few minutes.
- Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce and simmer gently until the vegetables are tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season with salt and black pepper and serve hot.
Helpful Tips
- Do not boil the coconut milk too hard or the sauce can separate.
- Serve over rice to catch the savory coconut sauce.
- Add more vegetables if you want a slightly lighter version.
FAQ
What does tinaktak taste like?
It is savory and comforting, with beef richness balanced by the softer, creamier flavor of coconut milk.
Can I add other vegetables to tinaktak?
Yes. Green beans are common, but other mild vegetables can be used depending on what you have.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 85 kcal |
| Fat | 31.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 59.4 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Fiber | 24.9 g |
| Protein | 36.5 g |
| Sodium | 93 mg |
| Cholesterol | 76.8 mg |
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