What is this food?
Busi-busi (a leafy vegetable) — a low-calorie, fiber-rich vegetable commonly cooked as a side dish in Filipino meals.
Why it matters to health
At about 54 kcal per 100g, busi-busi helps you add volume to your meals without piling on calories. It also provides carbohydrates (6g) for energy and very low fat (2g), which makes it a good partner for rice and ulam. Since it’s a vegetable, it supports better meal balance and can help you feel fuller, making it easier to keep your portions steady across your 3 full meals plus 1–2 snacks a day.
Healthier tips
- Pair busi-busi with a protein ulam (fish, chicken, tofu, or eggs) and a sensible serving of rice.
- Go easy on fatty toppings (like lots of oil or creamy sauces). Use garlic, onions, tomatoes, or bagoong in smaller amounts for flavor.
- If cooking with coconut milk, use a smaller amount and add more water/vegetables to stretch it.
- Aim to include leafy/vegetable sides at least once per meal when possible.
Common Filipino dishes
Busi-busi with garlic, Ginataang busi-busi, Busi-busi with bagoong, Pinakbet (with leafy vegetables), Sautéed leafy greens with tomatoes