What is this food?
Himbaba-o flower is an edible flower used as a vegetable in some Filipino dishes. Per 100g, it’s low in fat and calories (about 68 kcal) and has a good amount of fiber (about 6.6g).
Why it matters to health
Because it’s high in fiber, it can help you feel full and support regular digestion—useful when you’re aiming for balanced meals (3 full meals plus 1–2 snacks a day). It’s also naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and it has low sodium (about 17mg per 100g), which is helpful for everyday heart-friendly eating. The carbs are mostly from plant sources, with some natural sugar (about 1.3g), so it’s a good choice to pair with rice or other carbs rather than relying on sugary snacks.
Healthier tips
- Use it as a side vegetable with your main meal (rice + ulam + gulay) to boost fiber.
- Keep cooking simple: sauté with a little oil, garlic, and onions; avoid heavy sauces.
- If you’re having it as a snack, pair it with a protein (e.g., boiled egg, tofu, or fish) to stay satisfied.
- Watch the “extras”: the healthiest part is the flower itself—go easy on salty bagoong, soy sauce, and processed toppings.
Common Filipino dishes
Himbaba-o flower sauté, Himbaba-o flower with garlic and onions, Ginataang himbaba-o (light coconut milk), Mixed vegetable stir-fry with himbaba-o, Tinola-style gulay with himbaba-o