What is this food?
Himbaba-o flower, boiled (a type of edible flower vegetable).
Why it matters to health
For every 100g, it’s low in calories (~52 kcal) and very low in fat (about 0.9g). It also provides dietary fiber (about 5.1g), which helps you feel full and supports healthy digestion. The carbs are mostly from plant sources (about 8.1g total carbs, with ~1g sugar). It’s also low in sodium (~13mg), which is helpful if you’re balancing meals with sauces and salty viands. With its fiber and low calorie content, it’s a good choice to add volume to your 3 full meals and can also work well as part of your 1–2 snacks when paired with a balanced meal plan.
Healthier tips
- Serve it as a side vegetable with rice and ulam—aim for about 1–2 cups per meal depending on your appetite.
- Boil or lightly cook; keep added oil and salty seasonings minimal.
- If you’re having it as a snack, pair it with a protein (like boiled egg, tofu, or fish) to keep you satisfied.
- To make it more filling, combine with other veggies and a reasonable portion of rice or root crops.
Common Filipino dishes
Dinengdeng, Pinakbet, Ginisang gulay, Sinigang (with mixed vegetables), Laing (with leafy greens)