Kamote Tops (Stir-Fried Sweet Potato Leaves): A Nutrient-Packed Filipino Staple
The Humble Powerhouse of Filipino Cuisine
Kamote tops or camote tops, the vibrant leaves of the sweet potato plant, represent one of the most underrated yet nutritionally dense vegetables in Filipino cooking. While often overlooked in favor of more glamorous greens, these leafy tops have sustained generations of Filipinos with their remarkable health benefits and versatile culinary applications. This simple stir-fry preparation showcases how Filipino cuisine transforms basic ingredients into flavorful, nourishing dishes.
Nutritional Superstars in Your Kitchen
Sweet potato leaves stand out nutritionally, offering:
- Higher protein content than most leafy greens
- Exceptional levels of vitamin K (supporting bone health)
- Rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and carotenoids
- Significant amounts of B vitamins for energy metabolism
- More vitamin C than many citrus fruits by weight
Cultural Significance in Philippine Agriculture
Kamote tops hold special importance as:
- A drought-resistant crop thriving in tropical climates
- A zero-waste ingredient (both leaves and stems are edible)
- A traditional remedy in Filipino folk medicine
- A staple in rural communities’ daily meals
- An important food security crop during lean seasons
Culinary Versatility Beyond Basic Stir-Fries
While this garlic stir-fry is the most common preparation, kamote tops can also be:
- Blanched for fresh salads with salted egg and tomatoes
- Added to sinigang or tinola for extra nutrition
- Incorporated into omelets and frittatas
- Used as wrappers for steamed fish or meat
- Pureed into soups with coconut milk
The Science Behind Simple Preparation
The quick stir-fry method:
- Preserves heat-sensitive nutrients like vitamin C
- Maintains the leaves’ vibrant green color
- Enhances bioavailability of fat-soluble vitamins
- Softens the stems while keeping texture pleasant
Sustainable Food Choice for Modern Times
Kamote tops represent:
- An eco-friendly crop requiring minimal inputs
- A hyperlocal ingredient reducing food miles
- A climate-resilient food source
- An affordable nutrition solution
- A perfect candidate for urban container gardening
Why This Humble Dish Deserves Attention
In an era of superfood trends, kamote tops offer:
- Greater nutritional density than many imported greens
- Superior adaptability to Filipino taste preferences
- Deep cultural roots in Philippine food heritage
- Accessibility to all socioeconomic groups
- Potential for creative modern interpretations
This simple preparation of kamote tops embodies the essence of Filipino home cooking – turning readily available ingredients into dishes that nourish both body and soul while connecting us to agricultural traditions. Its unassuming nature belies its significant role in Philippine food culture and nutrition security.
Please browse our recipe archive for more recipes. Share and enjoy the food. Thank you for visiting us.
Visit us on YouTube: Yummy Food PH
Kamote Tops Stir Fry Sweet Potato Leaves Recipe
Description
This Kamote tops recipe, or stir fry sweet potato leaves recipe with garlic, is a very plain and super easy vegetable recipe. This is not a fancy vegetable dish, but it is packed with nutritional benefits for the body.
Ingredients
Instructions
Preparation:
Prepare the kamote tops or sweet potato leaves by cutting the young leaves from the stem. Then wash and drain.
Peel and chop the garlic cloves.
Cooking:
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until it is a bit toasted and fragrant.
Adjust the heat to medium-low, and then add the sweet potato leaves. Keep cooking and stirring regularly until the leaves are starting to release juice and are a bit soft.
Add soy sauce and oyster sauce and stir.
Season with ground black pepper and salt to taste. Stir.
Tips: Don’t overcook the sweet potato leaves.Remove from the heat and serve hot. Happy cooking! Share and enjoy the food.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 225kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14.4g23%
- Saturated Fat 2.7g14%
- Sodium 606mg26%
- Potassium 1351mg39%
- Total Carbohydrate 19.7g7%
- Dietary Fiber 5.3g22%
- Sugars 0.2g
- Protein 11.1g23%
- Calcium 7 mg
- Iron 18 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
