Ukoy (Shrimp And Squash Fritters)

Ukoy (Shrimp and Squash Fritters) is a classic Filipino appetizer featuring crispy golden fritters packed with sweet shrimp, tender squash, and flavorful vegetables. Light, crunchy, and incredibly satisfying, this easy Filipino recipe delivers the perfect balance of savory seafood flavor and irresistible texture in every bite.

INGREDIENTS:

Ukoy

• 2 cups Squash, grated
• 2 ½ cups small Shrimps, rinsed
• 2 tbsp Green Onions, chopped finely
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
• ½ cup Cornstarch
• 2 Eggs, beaten
• ½ cup Water
• 2 tbsp Fish Sauce
• 6 cloves of garlic, chopped finely
• Salt & Pepper, to taste
• 3 cups Palm Oil, for frying

Spicy Vinegar Dip

• ½ cup Cane Vinegar
• 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 2 tbsp Red Onion, chopped
• 1 tsp Fish Sauce
• 1 Red Chili, chopped
• 1 tsp White Sugar

PROCEDURE:

1. Start by grating the squash.
2. Slice some green onions.
3. Using a big bowl, add the cornstarch, flour, water, eggs, and fish sauce. Season with a little salt. Whisk everything until free from lumps.
4. Add the grated squash, green onion, and small shrimps. Season it with a little salt and add the garlic. Mix everything together. Set it aside.
5. Heat the oil over medium heat. Prepare the oil for frying.
6. Scoop some ukoy mixture and put it in a banana leaf. This will help your ukoy cook faster.
7. Start frying your ukoy. Once the banana leaves are floating, turn the ukoy to the other side.
8. Transfer the ukoy to a plate with a paper towel to remove excess oil. Cool it down.
9. Make your spicy vinegar dip. In a bowl, combine the cane vinegar, garlic, onions, fish sauce, red chili, and some sugar. Mix it well.
10. Ready to serve.