MANILA, Philippines—Despite their meager income, many Filipino families survive because they eat cheap but nutritious food. Instead of buying expensive ingredients, they get them from sidewalk vendors who offer healthy alternatives. Some popular items from our reliable neighborhood vendors who see us through any food crisis:

1. Taho. This steaming hot, protein-rich food is loved by young and old alike. Children are introduced early on to this healthy food option that helps everyone get his body’s protein requirement, especially when dairy products are too expensive.

2. Boiled peanuts. Devoid of oil, MSG and other additives, boiled peanuts are natural and protein-rich. They’re an ideal snack or dessert for the whole family.

Popular snack

3. Boiled corn. Aside from being free from cancer-causing chemicals, it is flavorful and healthy. In La Union, a pack of four small cobs of corn sells for only P10, and is a popular snack among school children, laborers and simple folk.

4. Kakanin. These desserts are simple treats that don’t contain preservatives and artificial flavor. They use ingredients like pinipig, cassava, raw brown sugar and rice flour. Whether steamed, baked or fried, they make for a hearty snack!

One food item we wish were more common here are baked sweet potatoes. In China, vendors ride bicycles with a sidecar that carries huge cans containing charcoal and sweet potatoes. When you order a piece, they pull out the hot, baked sweet potato from the can, and charge according to its weight. Their sweet potatoes have a smokey flavor and are healthy, nutritious and affordable!