Tapa

Appetizer

Item Rating: 61/100

1 serving (50 grams) contains 120 calories, 4.0 grams of protein, 8.0 grams of fat, and 10.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.6g)

Calories		567.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		37.9 g	48%
	Saturated Fat	9.5 g	47%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		71.0 mg	23%
Sodium		1419.5 mg	61%
Total Carbohydrates		47.3 g	17%
	Dietary Fiber	4.7 g	16%
	Sugars	4.7 g
protein		18.9 g	37%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		94.6 mg	7%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		473.2 mg	10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

⚠️ Contains trans fat

Source of Calories

Fat: 341 cal (56.3%)

Protein: 75 cal (12.5%)

Carbs: 189 cal (31.2%)

About Tapa

Tapa is a traditional Filipino delicacy, often made by marinating thin slices of cured beef or other meats with a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices, then pan-frying or grilling them. Originating from the Philippines, tapa is commonly served as part of a breakfast dish called tapsilog, paired with garlic fried rice and a fried egg. Tapa is protein-rich, providing 8 grams per serving, and contains moderate calories (240) primarily stemming from fats and carbs. It supplies essential minerals such as calcium (40 mg) and iron (1 mg), though it's low in fiber and vitamin content, making it best complemented with nutrient-dense sides like vegetables or fruits.

Health Benefits

• Provides high-quality protein (8g per serving) essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Contains iron (1 mg per serving), which supports oxygen transport and energy metabolism.
• Supplies calcium (40 mg per serving), beneficial for bone health and nerve signaling.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains soy, gluten (if made with soy sauce containing wheat)

Suitable for: High-protein diet, low-carb diet in moderation

Not suitable for: Vegetarian diet, vegan diet, low-fat diet

Selection and Storage

Store uncooked tapa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. Cook thoroughly to safe internal temperatures before consuming.

Common Questions About Tapa Nutrition

Is tapa high in protein?

Tapa provides 8 grams of protein per serving, making it a moderate source of protein. While it is not as high in protein as some other meats, it can still contribute to your daily protein intake, especially when paired with other protein-rich foods.

Can I eat tapa on a keto diet?

Tapa is not ideal for a strict keto diet due to its carbohydrate content of 20 grams per serving. While it is high in fat (16 grams), the carbohydrates may exceed your daily limit for keto, so it may be better to avoid or consume sparingly.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating tapa?

Tapa offers a moderate amount of protein and fat, which can help with energy and muscle repair. However, it contains 600 mg of sodium per serving, which is 25% of the daily recommended limit, so excessive consumption may contribute to high blood pressure or water retention.

What is a recommended portion size for tapa?

A serving size of tapa is typically around 3 ounces, which contains 240 calories. This portion size balances its caloric intake and sodium content, making it suitable for occasional consumption as part of a balanced meal.

How does tapa compare to other similar foods like beef jerky?

Tapa has more carbohydrates (20 grams vs. 3-5 grams in jerky) but generally contains a similar fat content and lower protein compared to beef jerky. It's more suited for a meal rather than a light snack like jerky, which is more protein-focused and often lower in sodium.

Data Sources & Scientific References