The health benefits of sweet potatoes are well-known but as it turns out, sweet potato leaves are packed with nutrition too. They are high in vitamins B6, C and D, contain good amounts of iron, magnesium and potassium and they are high in beta carotene which is the precursor for vitamin A in our bodies.
Here in the Philippines sweet potato leaves, locally known as camote tops, are often used to make a refreshing side salad called Ensaladang Talbos ng Kamote. Delicious as a starter or with some grilled fish!
Ingredients:
- 6 cups packed sweet potato leaves (include some of the tender stalks)
- 3 medium size tomatoes, finely diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 large spring onion (or 3 small local ones here in Philippines)
Dressing:
1 tbsp kalamansi (see picture) juice for those who live in the Philippines, otherwise lemon juice- 2 tsp fish sauce
- pinch of white pepper
- 1/2 tsp coconut sugar
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional)
Preparation:
- Bring a pan with water to a boil
- Drop the sweet potato leaves into the boiling water and remove once the water comes back to a boil
- Drain in a strainer
- Combine the dressing ingredients in a small bowl
- In a larger bowl, toss together the chopped tomato, onion and spring onion and pour over the dressing
- Add the sweet potato leaves and mix well
- Enjoy!
