Tag: Filipino vegetables

With only 19 calories per 100-gram serving, the humble alugbati offers an impressive nutritional punch that can significantly benefit your health. Also known as Malabar spinach, this versatile vine is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants essential for overall well-being. By incorporating alugbati into your diet, you can enjoy a wide array of health advantages that support your body from the inside out.

According to a study on its nutritional content, alugbati leaves are remarkably high in vitamins A and C, surpassing the Recommended Dietary Allowance in just a 100-gram serving. Though often inquired about for its fruit, the plant's primary health benefits are derived from its nutrient-packed, edible leaves, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet.

While true spinach (*Spinacia oleracea*) does not thrive in the hot, tropical climate of the Philippines, several indigenous vegetables are commonly known and used as substitutes. These leafy greens, including *alugbati* (Malabar spinach) and *talinum* (Philippine spinach), are nutrient-dense and form the basis for many Filipino dishes.

For centuries, alugbati, also known as Malabar spinach, has been a dietary staple across tropical Asia. This fast-growing vine provides a versatile, nutritious leafy green and is more than just a regular spinach substitute.

Mung beans (monggo) are a staple in Filipino cuisine and are one of the most significant plant-based protein sources available locally. This guide explores not only mung beans but also other native and readily available vegetables in the Philippines that are rich in protein, crucial for maintaining a balanced and healthy diet.

Did you know that dried malunggay leaves can contain up to 40% protein on a dry-weight basis? This makes malunggay, also known as moringa, a powerful contender when considering which Philippine vegetable is high in protein, especially compared to other popular local greens.

According to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Tinola is a great source of protein, magnesium, and potassium, among other nutrients. What is the healthiest Filipino food to eat often depends on the ingredients and cooking methods, but many traditional dishes naturally lean towards being exceptionally nutritious.