This popular Filipino street food combines the savory flavors of shrimp and the freshness of vegetables, creating a delicious and crispy fritter. Served with a vinegar dipping sauce, it’s a perfect snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of tiny shrimp, stripped of shells and veins.
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup sweet potato, peeled and julienned
- 1/4 cup carrots, peeled and julienned
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup water (adjust as needed to achieve the right batter consistency)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Vinegar Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- A few chili flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a sizable bowl, blend together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Slowly pour in water while whisking until the mixture achieves a smooth consistency. The consistency should be slightly thicker than pancake batter; adjust by adding more water or flour as needed.
- Combine Ingredients:
- To the batter, add the shrimp, bean sprouts, sweet potato, carrots, and green onions. Stir until the ingredients are well coated with the batter.
- Fry the Fritters:
- Heat a good amount of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, spoon the mixture into the oil, forming small patties. Gently press them down a bit using the back of the spoon.
- Cook until they turn golden brown and crispy, approximately 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding the pan.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- While the fritters are frying, mix together vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using) in a small bowl. Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
- Serve:
- Drain the fried fritters on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with the vinegar dipping sauce on the side.
Enjoy your homemade Filipino shrimp and vegetable fritters, a crispy and flavorful treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!