How to Make Papaya Ukoy

Lito Montala

Papaya Ukoy is a tantalizing Filipino dish that marries the crispiness of grated green papaya with succulent shrimps, delivering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every bite.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 5

Total Time 20

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Filipino

Servings 8 pcs

Calories 140 kcal

Ingredients

2 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper ground
3/4 cup water
2 cup green papaya grated
1 pc onion chopped
200 grams small fresh shrimps cleaned (for vegans: subtitute with vegemeat or tofu)
1 cup oil for frying

Instructions

How to make papaya ukoy

Mix flour, salt, pepper and water together to make a smooth batter.
Add grated papaya and onion.
Place 2-3 tablespoons of mixture in a saucer to form patties and press 2-3 shrimps on top.
In a large pan or wok, heat cooking oil.
Deep fry the patties until golden brown and crispy. Drain in absorbent paper towels.
Serve hot with vinegar and garlic sauce.

Notes

Cooking Tips of Papaya Ukoy Recipe:

1. Grate Green Papaya Fresh: Elevate the Texture

For the perfect papaya ukoy, always opt for freshly grated green papaya. The vibrant color and crisp texture of the unripe papaya add a unique element to the dish. Avoid pre-grated papaya, as it may lose its crunchiness over time. Grating the papaya just before incorporating it into the batter ensures that the ukoy maintains its delightful texture, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

2. Maintain the Right Oil Temperature: Crispy Perfection

Achieving the ideal oil temperature is key to crafting crispy and delicious papaya ukoy. Use a reliable thermometer to ensure the oil reaches around 350°F (175°C). This high temperature allows the batter to crisp up quickly, preventing the ukoy from becoming greasy. Consistently monitor the oil temperature throughout the frying process, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain that perfect balance of crispy perfection.

3. Experiment with Dipping Sauces: Customize the Experience

While the classic vinegar and garlic sauce complements papaya ukoy beautifully, don't be afraid to experiment with different dipping sauces. Consider a spicy vinegar dip for an added kick or a sweet and tangy tamarind sauce for a unique twist. Customizing the dipping sauce allows you to tailor the overall flavor profile to your liking, making each bite a personalized culinary experience. Get creative and explore various combinations to discover the perfect accompaniment for your papaya ukoy.

Keyword papaya okoy, papaya ukoy