Kamote (Filipino sweet potato) is beloved for its natural sweetness and vibrant colors in traditional dishes like turon, ginataang kamote, and kamote cue.
When specific kamote varieties aren't available, these substitutes help you create authentic Filipino flavors and textures in your favorite recipes.
Here are 5 proven kamote alternatives that work beautifully in both savory and sweet Filipino preparations.
The 2 Best Substitutes
1. Regular Sweet Potato
Easy
(4/5)
Substitution Ratio
1:1 replacement
Texture: Very similar when cooked
Flavor: Sweet, similar profile
Best for: Ginataang kamote, boiled kamote, desserts
Pros & Cons
Widely available
Similar texture
Good sweetness
Different color
Slightly different flavor
May cook faster
Pro Tip
Choose orange-fleshed varieties for best flavor match.
2. Japanese Purple Sweet Potato
Easy
(4/5)
Substitution Ratio
1:1 replacement
Texture: Dense, slightly drier
Flavor: Nutty, less sweet
Best for: Purple kamote dishes, desserts, turon
Pros & Cons
Beautiful purple color
Unique flavor
Similar size
Less sweet
Can be hard to find
Different texture
Pro Tip
Perfect for recipes calling for purple kamote varieties.
Expert Tips
Professional Secrets
- Adjust cooking time - some substitutes cook faster than traditional kamote
- For turon, choose firmer varieties that won't become mushy when fried