Ukoy

Photo of Ukoy by Angie Pastor. For orders in the Metro Manila area, 09369815475.

Ukoy (or okoy) is a flat deep-fried shrimp patty or fritter. Very small shrimps are used. It is recognized as having come from the cuisine of immigrants who settled in the Philippines from China.

Ingredients for the patties:

2 cups all purpose flour.
1 8g sachet MAGGI MAGIC SARAP
1 cup water
1 egg, beaten
3 cups squash, julienned
1 cup kamote, julienned
oil for frying
1/2 cup small shrimps for topping

For the vinegar dip, combine:

1/2 cup vinegar
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 tsp sugar
1/4 cup MAGGI Savor, Classic

PROCEDURE

In a bowl, combine flour and MAGGI MAGIC SARAP. Pour in water and beaten egg. Add squash and camote strips. Combine until the mixture comes together.

Heat oil. Pour a ladleful of the batter into the pan, enough to form a small patty. Quickly arrange a few pieces of shrimp on top of this and fry until crispy golden brown.

Drain using paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serve vinegar dip on the side.