Talbos is the Filipino generic name for "young tips of edible leaves", such as Talbos ng Kamote young leaves of sweet potato), Talbos ng Ampalaya (young leaves of bitter gourd), Kangkong (leaves of swamp cabbage), Talbos ng Sayote. Most of these young edible tips are used in making salads.


In the food context, "talbos" refers to the young leaves or shoots of various vegetables that are often used in Filipino cuisine as a nutritious and flavorful ingredient. Talbos can be found in many types of vegetables such as camote (sweet potato), kalabasa (squash), and mongo (mung bean).

Here are some examples of dishes that use talbos as a primary ingredient:

  1. Tinolang Manok with Talbos ng Kamote: A chicken soup dish made with sweet potato leaves, ginger, and green papaya.

  2. Ginisang Talbos ng Kamote: A simple sautéed dish made with sweet potato leaves, garlic, and onions.

  3. Ginataang Kalabasa at Talbos ng Kamote: A creamy vegetable dish made with squash, sweet potato leaves, coconut milk, and shrimp or fish.

  4. Sinigang na Hipon with Talbos ng Kamote: A sour soup made with shrimp, sweet potato leaves, and tamarind.

  5. Monggo with Talbos ng Ampalaya: A hearty stew made with mung beans, bitter melon leaves (ampalaya), and pork.

Similar leafy vegetables to talbos include:

  1. Spinach: A leafy green vegetable that is rich in iron and can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and smoothies.

  2. Kale: A leafy green vegetable that is also high in iron and can be used in salads, stir-fries, or as a healthy snack when baked as chips.

  3. Chard: A leafy green vegetable that has a slightly bitter taste and can be used in soups, stir-fries, or sautéed as a side dish.

  4. Watercress: A peppery and nutritious green that is often used in salads or as a garnish for sandwiches.

  5. Arugula: A leafy green with a peppery taste that is often used in salads, on pizzas, or in sandwiches.