Kangkong King: World’s First Flavored Fried Kangkong

Whenever I’m stressed, the first thing that comes to mind is to grab a bag of chips or buy some french fries. However, when the stress level is high everyday, I sometimes worry about my health if I consume too much chips. Recently, while I was preparing for a midyear report at the office, I stumbled upon something that will most probably change my snacking game forever. Kangkong King is serving the world’s first ever flavored fried kangkong, and it’s so good I can’t stop munching on them!

THE STORY

Kangkong King stemmed from their President, Mr. Frank Gaw’s love for chips since he was a little boy. He then thought of ways to provide a healthy snacking habit to both children and adults. As he is personally not a big fan of vegetables, this breakthrough was big for him because he wanted to make the vegetables taste un-vegetabley (if you know what I mean). Kangkong is also a good vegetable to use, as it is low fat, low calorie, and high in Vitamins A and C.

They have tried their concept in pop-ups, and as they were met with positive feedback, they opted to launch it in full scale last September 2019 at Robinsons Place Manila. To date, they already have four branches, less than a year into the business. Aside from keeping to their mission in providing a healthy snacking option while supporting our local farmers, they have also been donating the kangkong stalks for the animals of Manila Zoo (prior to its renovation). Talk about a well-rounded objective!

THE FOOD

Kangkong King prepares their fried kangkong by dipping the clean kangkong (water spinach) leaves into a simple starch mixture, which keeps the chips crisp. These are then deep fried and dusted with your choice of flavoring (Cheese, Sour Cream, Barbecue, and KKK – veggie flavor). Kangkong King serves their fried kangkong in four sizes: Tarsier (R) – Php 50, Chimpanzee (M) – Php 75, Orangutan (L) – Php 100, and Ape (XL) – Php 120.

But for those who want their kangkong free from flavorings, you may also get them plain. When I asked what Sir Frank’s favorite is, I was told it’s their Barbecue flavor. Let’s see what my favorite will be based on my recent taste test.

THE VERDICT

I was able to try all four flavors of this crispy goodness! I was amazed at how they were able to keep the crispiness of the chips, withstanding the travel time. Each chip had a thin coating, locking in the freshness and crispiness of the kangkong. No wonder the kids and kids at heart love this! One Tarsier sized Kangkong King can keep you filled already. Tip: But it’s so addictive, you’d probably want to get a bigger size.

The cheese flavor is more on the salty side, so people who like the orangey cheese might be surprised with this flavor. It’s more savory than sweet, unlike the “cheese” flavor kids love. The sour cream flavor has a salty-tangy taste that loyalists of this flavor will definitely enjoy. On the other hand, I love their Barbecue flavor! It has the right smokey flavor and saltiness that would definitely make the stress melt away. (You know what I mean.) It could be a bit spicier, but it’s already good as it is. The showstopper, however, is the KKK flavor. Never knew veggie flavored chips taste this good! It’s a bit reminiscent of our childhood favorite Snacku, with a savory veggie taste you’d surely love. It’s healthier too, as there is no MSG used for this flavor!

I just want to reiterate how these chips do not get soggy immediately. Hours after it was delivered, I was still able to enjoy them as if they were freshly cooked. I swear, this is extremely addicting. Feel the crunch too by ordering from them now!

Kangkong King has one out of its four branches open this MECQ. They currently serve your kkkravings in their Robinsons Place Manila branch, but they are working to re-open their Galleria branch soon. They can also deliver via FoodPanda or GrabFood. For inquiries and orders, you may also contact them through their Facebook or Instagram accounts.