Ingredients
For the Ukoy (Sweet Potato Fritters):
2 medium sweet potatoes, julienned
1 cup bean sprouts
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup shrimp, chopped
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup cold water
Oil, for frying
For the Palabok Sauce:
2 tablespoons annatto oil
1/2 pound ground pork
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fish sauce
2 cups shrimp stock or chicken broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
4 ounces rice noodles
Chopped green onions
Hard-boiled eggs, sliced
Crushed chicharrón (pork rind) or crispy garlic, for garnish
Execution
Prepare the Palabok Sauce
In a large pan, warm the annatto oil over medium heat. Add the ground pork, cooking until browned, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and fish sauce, cooking for another minute.
Pour in the shrimp stock and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Stir in the cornstarch blend to help the sauce thicken, and add salt and pepper as desired. Keep warm on low heat while preparing the ukoy.
Soak the Noodles
Place the rice noodles in a bowl of hot water, allowing them to soften for approximately 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Ukoy Batter
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Slowly mix in the cold water until a batter forms.
Add the sweet potatoes, bean sprouts, onion, and shrimp to the batter, mixing until all ingredients are well-coated.
Fry the Ukoy
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Scoop a portion of the batter into the pan, pressing slightly to flatten.
Cook each side for about 3–4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve
Plate the ukoy alongside the softened rice noodles.
Drizzle the palabok sauce over the noodles and top with green onions, sliced eggs, and chicharrón or crispy garlic for extra crunch.
Additional tips
- Vary the Protein: Substitute shrimp with other seafood like crab or squid for a different twist.
- Add Veggies: Include shredded carrots or cabbage for extra crunch.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
