Taro Leaf Fritters
Taro Leaf Fritters, known as 'Kangkung Belacan' or 'Gado-Gado' in Southeast Asia, are crispy, deep-fried snacks made from fresh taro leaves coated in a seasoned chickpea or rice flour batter. They are a beloved street food and home-cooked treat across Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, often enjoyed with a spicy dipping sauce.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is moderate in carbohydrates from the batter and fiber-rich taro leaves, with a significant amount of fat from deep-frying. It provides a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, and iron, with a typical serving containing around 150-200 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbs | 22 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
| Potassium | 280 mg |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV |
| Calcium | 10% DV |
| Magnesium | 8% DV |
Per 4 fritters (about 120 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Taro leaves are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A and C, but they must be cooked thoroughly to neutralize naturally occurring calcium oxalate, which can cause irritation if eaten raw. The frying process not only creates a delightful crunch but also makes these nutrients more bioavailable.
