Savor the Flavors of Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok: A Filipino Delight!

Discover the delicious combination of Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok, a delightful Filipino dish that brings together two beloved recipes. Ukoy, or shrimp and sweet potato fritters, are crispy and packed with flavor, while Palabok is a rich, savory noodle dish topped with a flavorful sauce. This unique pairing creates a satisfying meal perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a special treat at home. Let’s dive into this delightful culinary experience!

Ingredients:

For the Sweet Potato Ukoy:

• 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, grated
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup water (adjust for consistency)
• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Oil for frying

For the Palabok:

• 8 ounces rice noodles (bihon)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1/2 pound ground pork (optional)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon annatto powder (for color)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1-2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• 1/4 cup chicharrón (crispy pork cracklings), crushed (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
• Lemon or calamansi wedges for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Sweet Potato Ukoy:

1. Mix the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine grated sweet potatoes, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Gradually add water until the mixture reaches a thick but pourable consistency.
2. Add Shrimp and Onions: Fold in the peeled shrimp, chopped onions, and green onions until well incorporated.
3. Fry the Ukoy: In a frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Scoop a spoonful of the mixture and drop it into the hot oil, flattening it slightly. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels and set aside.

Prepare the Palabok:

1. Cook the Noodles: Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 10-15 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and translucent.
3. Brown the Meat: If using ground pork, add it to the pan and cook until browned.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce, annatto powder, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add Noodles: Gently add the soaked noodles to the sauce, stirring carefully to coat them without breaking. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
6. Serve the Palabok: Transfer the Palabok to a serving dish and top with sliced hard-boiled eggs and crushed chicharrón (if using). Garnish with cilantro or green onions.

Serve Together:

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the Sweet Potato Ukoy alongside the Palabok for a complete meal. Add lemon or calamansi wedges for a zesty finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes! You can substitute regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes add a unique flavor and sweetness that complements the dish.

2. What if I can’t find annatto powder?
If annatto powder is unavailable, you can use turmeric for color, though it will change the flavor slightly.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and ground pork. You can substitute vegetable broth for the sauce and add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.

4. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover Palabok and Ukoy in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

5. Can I freeze the Ukoy?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked Ukoy. Just prepare the batter, form the fritters, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Fry from frozen when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Indulging in Sweet Potato Ukoy with Palabok is a delightful journey through Filipino cuisine. This dynamic duo not only offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors but also showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a comforting meal at home, this combination is sure to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Filipino tradition in every bite!