Explore low sodium Filipino recipes

The Philippines, made up of over 7,600 islands in Southeast Asia, is a country rich in culture and culinary diversity. Influenced by centuries of Chinese trade, over 300 years of Spanish rule, and American colonization, Filipino cuisine is a blend of native Filipino, Chinese, Spanish, and American flavours. This fusion can be seen in their language, traditions, cooking techniques and, of course, food! With kidney disease you may be wondering how can you include low sodium Filipino foods into your kidney-friendly diet. Let’s dive in.

What are Filipino foods?

Filipino cuisine is known for hearty dishes with bold flavours that balance the sweet, salty, and sour. Fresh, local tropical ingredients like mangosteen, rambutan, and passion fruit are often used, and incorporated into desserts. Meals often consist of rice paired with a protein such as pork, chicken, and seafood. Street food, such as grilled skewers or halo-halo (a dessert made with shaved ice and sweet treats), are also hugely popular. However, one concern is often sodium because of the salty flavours.

Kidney-friendly options

Filipino food is delicious and comforting, offering a wide variety of dishes that celebrate the cultural diversity of the Philippines. While some dishes can be high in sodium, potassium, and protein, a few simple modifications can allow you to savour the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine while following a CKD diet.

Low sodium Filipino foods

Filipino cuisine often uses salty condiments like fish sauce (patis) and soy sauce to enhance flavor. These can be very high in sodium, which can pose concern for those with kidney issues. To reduce sodium:

  • Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or fish sauce. For other low sodium Filipino sauces check out this resouce.
  • Ask for dishes to be prepared with less salt.
  • Enhance flavor with herbs and spices like garlic, onions, ginger, and lemongrass, which add flavor without relying on salt.
  • Vinegar or citrus fruits like calamansi can help enhance the favour of dishes and add a layer of complexity while offering a low sodium Filipino food.

Potassium points

Certain Filipino vegetables, such as bitter melon, cassava, and taro, are high in potassium. Managing potassium intake is crucial for kidney health, as excessive potassium can lead to hyperkalemia.

  • Replace high-potassium vegetables with lower-potassium options such as chayote, eggplant, jicama, or okra. These vegetables are still nutrient-rich but easier on the kidneys.
  • If using legumes and root crops (potatoes, yams, purple yam, mung beans), soaking them in water prior to cooking can lower the amount of potassium.

Alternative proteins

Filipino food often uses pork, beef, and chicken as protein sources, but for those managing kidney health, it is advised to lower their intake of high-protein foods, particularly those that are high in fat.

  • Choose lean proteins like chicken breast, turkey, lean pork cuts (like tenderloin), or seafood.
  • For plant-based options, incorporate tofu and legumes to reduce animal protein intake.

Different desserts

Filipino desserts are known for their vibrant colours and textures. There are easy ways to make them kidney friendly without compromising on taste. 

  • Cut down on the sugar used in desserts and use natural sweeteners like fresh fruits. Tropical fruits include: rambutan, santol, and makopa.
  • If a recipe calls for coconut milk, use light coconut milk, sour cream, or milk. Coconut extract can be used to add more coconut flavour.

Low sodium Filipino restaurant meals

If you’re planning to enjoy Filipino food at a restaurant, you can still enjoy a meal at your local Filipino restaurant with a few simple modifications.

  • Appetizer:
    • Ensaladang Talong (Roasted Eggplant Salad): Eggplants mixed onions and a vinegar-based dressing. Ask for the dressing on the side so you can control the amount.
    • Lumpiang Sariwa (Fresh Spring Rolls): A lighter version of the typical spring roll, which is made with tofu, vegetables, and shrimp.
  • Main Dishes:
    • Inihaw na Isda (Grilled Milkfish): Ask for the fish to be grilled with minimal salt, soy sauce, or fish sauce.
    • Tinola (Chicken Soup): This mild, ginger-based soup can be made kidney-friendly by using minimal fish sauce. Instead of extra fish sauce, try lime slices for added flavor.
  • Dessert:
    • Taho (Silken Tofu with Tapioca Pearls): This is a classic Filipino treat made with silken tofu and tapioca pearls in a brown sugar syrup. Ask for the syrup on the side and add as needed.
    • Puto (rice cake): a steamed cake that is soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet.

Low sodium Filipino foods with CKD

The Philippines has rich cultural diversity, and its cuisine is no different. You can still enjoy the vibrant flavors of Filipino dishes while being mindful of your kidney health. By focusing on low-sodium ingredients, lean proteins, and low potassium vegetables, you can savor the delicious and comforting meals of the Philippines without compromising your health.

Whether you’re cooking at home or enjoying a meal out, there’s always a way to make Filipino food work for your dietary needs! For more information, feel free to get in touch with us here at Kidney Nutrition for personalized advice.

This article was written by Rachel Lo, Nutrition Student Volunteer.
This article was reviewed by Emily Campbell, RD CDE MScFN.

Leave a Reply

Scroll to Top