Easy Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok Recipe

5.0 from 8 votes

Whether you’re a fan of Filipino dishes or just curious to try something new, the Sweet potato ukoy with palabok recipe is easy to follow and incredibly satisfying. It combines the crispy goodness of traditional Filipino ukoy with a creamy, savory palabok-inspired dip. This unique twist on a classic dish is perfect for anyone exploring authentic Filipino flavors with a creative spin.

Ukoy is a crispy cake with shrimp, bean sprouts, and vegetables. Sweet potatoes take center stage in this version, adding a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy palabok dip.

What is Ukoy?

Ukoy, also known as Filipino shrimp fritters, is a popular street food in the Philippines. Classic ukoy consists of shredded vegetables like bean sprouts and shrimp or fish bound together in a light, crispy batter. Fried to golden perfection, these fritters are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are often dipped in vinegar for that perfect tangy touch.

But today, we’re having fun with ukoy. We make creative twists by using sweet potatoes as the base and pairing them with palabok sauce for a vibrant and satisfying dipping experience.

What is Palabok Sauce?

Palabok sauce is a savory, seafood-based sauce traditionally served with Filipino pancit palabok. The base is made from shrimp or seafood broth, thickened with cornstarch, and infused with rich flavors like garlic, onion, and annatto. It is a creamy, hearty sauce that works beautifully as a dip for crispy sides like ukoy.

Why Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok Dip is a Must-Try

This recipe combines two beloved Filipino dishes, ukoy, and palabok, into one flavorful creation. The contrast between the crispy ukoy and the rich, creamy dip makes every bite unforgettable. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein options.

Here’s why this recipe deserves a place on your plate:

Unique Combination: Sweet potato ukoy has a natural sweetness and a crispy texture, wonderfully contrasted by the rich creaminess of palabok sauce.
Balanced Flavors: The earthy, slightly sweet tones of sweet potatoes balance out the savory, umami-packed flavors of the palabok dip.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an appetizer to impress your friends, this dish screams crowd-pleaser.
Easy to Customize: Add shrimp or more veggies, or try different seasoning blends to match your taste.

Now that you’re sold on this culinary mashup, it’s time to learn how to make it!

How to Make Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok

Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or just looking for a fresh take on a classic combo, Sweet potato ukoy with palabok will boast your taste buds and elevate your snack. This pairing combines the best of two Filipino favorites into one delicious dish.

Sweet potato ukoy with palabok combines the crispy texture of ukoy fritters with the rich, creamy flavors of the palabok-inspired sauce. This unique dish is perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a light meal. Follow this simple recipe to enjoy the delightful flavors of Filipino cuisine!

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Ukoy:

3 cups sweet potatoes, grated
1 cup bean sprouts
One small onion, finely sliced
1/2 cup shrimp (optional)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
One teaspoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup water
Vegetable oil.

For the Palabok Sauce:

2 cups shrimp broth (or water with shrimp bouillon)
2 tablespoons annatto powder (optional for color)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water (as a slurry)
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

preparing Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok Recipe

Prepare the Sweet Potato Ukoy

Mix the batter: Whisk the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, fish sauce (or soy sauce), ground black pepper, and water to form a smooth, slightly thick batter.
Combine the ingredients: Add the grated sweet potatoes, bean sprouts, onion, and shrimp (if using) to the batter. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Heat the oil: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry the ukoy: Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture into the oil, flattening it slightly into a round cake. Fry until golden brown on one side (about 2-3 minutes), then flip and cook the other. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Make the Palabok Sauce

Sauté aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
Add the broth: Pour in the shrimp broth and annatto powder, stirring until the mixture is well combined.
Thicken the sauce: Add the fish sauce, ground pepper, and cornstarch slurry, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Remove from heat.

Arrange your crispy sweet potato ukoy on a platter and serve with a bowl of warm palabok sauce for dipping. For a burst of color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions.

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok

How you serve ukoy matters a lot. Put the crispy sweet potato ukoy on a stunning platter, making it the main attraction. This dish is excellent for sharing with others. It’s perfect for family dinners or hangouts with friends. Its vibrant look and tasty flavor will wow your guests.

Complementary Dishes

Steamed Rice: For a more filling option, serve your meal with a small bowl of steamed jasmine rice.

Beverage Recommendations

Cold Drinks: Balance the richness with a refreshing beverage like calamansi juice, iced tea, or a light beer.

Presentation Tips

Fresh Salad: A simple cucumber, tomato, chicken salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this dish’s rich and crispy flavors.

Tips for making perfect sweet potato ukoy with palabok

serving Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok Recipe

Creating the perfect sweet potato ukoy with palabok requires a balance of crispy ukoy and a rich, creamy dip. Follow these tips to elevate your dish to perfection:

Choose Fresh Ingredients

Sweet Potatoes: Select firm, fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Avoid overly soft or bruised ones.
Shrimp: If using shrimp, opt for small, fresh shrimp or pre-cooked shrimp for convenience.
Bean Sprouts and Vegetables: Use fresh, crisp vegetables to maintain the ukoy’s crunchy texture.

Achieve the Right Batter Consistency

The batter should be thick enough to coat the vegetables and shrimp but not too runny.
Add cold water gradually to avoid over-thinning the batter. The cold water helps create a crispier texture when fried.

Get the Perfect Frying Technique

Use the Right Oil: Opt for neutral-flavored oils like canola or vegetable oil with a high smoke point.
Heat the Oil Properly: Ensure the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying. Too cold, and the ukoy will absorb oil; too hot, and it may burn.
Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even frying and crispiness.

Add a Touch of Annatto for Color

Mix some annatto powder or oil into the batter for a vibrant golden-orange hue. This adds a visual appeal to the ukoy while giving a subtle earthy flavor.

Perfecting the Palabok Dip

Rich and Creamy Base: For depth of flavor, use evaporated milk and shrimp broth. Chicken or vegetable broth works well if you don’t have shrimp broth.
Thickening Tip: Dissolve cornstarch in water before adding it to the sauce to avoid lumps. Stir constantly while cooking to achieve a smooth, velvety dip.
Flavor Boosters: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a touch of grated cheese for richness.

Assembly and Presentation

Serve the ukoy fresh out of the fryer to maintain its crispiness.
Pair the dish with tangy calamansi or lemon for a refreshing twist that cuts through the richness.
Garnish the dip with crushed chicharrón or chopped spring onions for extra flair.

Experiment and Customize

For vegetarians, skip the shrimp and add vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
Add chili flakes or cayenne to the dip for a spicy kick.
Swap sweet potatoes with taro or cassava for a different twist on the classic ukoy.

Mastering these tips will ensure your sweet potato ukoy with palabok recipe turns out irresistibly crispy, flavorful, and indulgent every time!

Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok Recipe

Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok is a delicious treat and a dish packed with various health benefits. It contains many healty ingredients that is helpful for health. Let’s break down its nutritional value and the positive impact it can have on your well-being.

Ingredient	Nutritional Benefits	Health Benefits
Sweet Potatoes	Rich in beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.	It supports eye health, boosts immunity, promotes digestion, and helps regulate blood pressure.
Shrimp (optional)	is High in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and selenium	It builds muscle, improves brain health, and reduces inflammation.
Bean Sprouts	are low in calories and high in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and K	They Enhance skin health, support bone strength, and aid in detoxification.
Carrots (optional)	Packed with vitamin A, beta-carotene, and dietary fiber	It improves vision, boosts skin health, and aids digestion.
All-purpose flour	Provides carbohydrates and a small amount of protein.	It offers energy but should be consumed in moderation.
vegetable Oil	Contains antioxidants and carotenoids.	It helps fight free radicals and contributes to vibrant skin and hair health.
Evaporated Milk	Source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein	Supports bone health and muscle function.
Shrimp Broth	Rich in minerals like iodine, zinc, and magnesium	It boosts thyroid function and supports metabolism.
Turmeric Powder	Contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound	Reduces inflammation and supports heart and brain health.
Cheese (in dip)	Source of calcium, vitamin B12, and protein	It supports bone strength and provides essential nutrients for energy production.

Nutrition

Here breakdown the nutrients that sweet potato ukoy contains :

Nutrients	serving per amount
Calories	320 kcal
Carbohydrates	40g
Protein	12g
Fat	12g
Sodium	600mg
Sugar	5g

For more nutritional profiles of ingredients like sweet potatoes or shrimp check out : https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/

Enjoying sweet potato ukoy with palabok not only delights your taste buds but also offers a variety of health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet!

Conclusion:

Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok is more than just a dish. It celebrates Filipino culinary traditions with a creative and modern twist. Whether cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe will surely delight you with its vibrant flavors and crispy textures.

By following this recipe for a Filipino ukoy dish, you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering treat and experience the vibrant flavors of Filipino food. Try this sweet potato ukoy with palabok recipe today and bring a taste of the Philippines to your table!

Check out more recipes at Top Food Recipes that will add a little taste of adventure to your meals. Happy cooking!