Okoy, an ancient Filipino delicacy and local favorite, is a deep fried snack made from shrimp and a few spices. Its surprisingly simple recipe has become iconic in the Philippines and around the world for its delectable flavor and crunchy texture.
This traditional dish has been eaten in the Philippines since the 1300’s, when it was called "kawali" due to its cooking method with a wok and stove. The modern-day Okoy recipe is quite basic, consisting of shrimp, vegetables like eggplant, squash, and carrots, and a few spices like garlic, onion, ginger, and fish sauce. The ingredients are then deep fried until golden brown and served hot with a variety of dipping sauces.
The unique taste of this dish is not easily replicated, as it relies heavily on the quality of ingredients used and the skill of the cook. The real Okoy experience, however, comes from its crunchy feel that many Filipinos love. It's the kind of snack that brings smiles to faces and memories of home, no matter where people may be.
Okoy is an all-time favorite snack and street food, and can be found in stores, restaurants, and even from special vendors selling it from push carts. It's also a great side dish for any meal, especially for those looking for something light yet flavorful.
Whatever the occasion, the classic Okoy will always be the perfect companion in Filipino cuisine. With its simplicity and versatility, it’s no wonder why it has remained a beloved snack for centuries.
Amazing Okoy recipes sourced from the web.
Ah Okoy, that delightful deep-fried morsel of joy! Who knew something so simple and delicious could have such a fascinating history? Have you ever stopped to consider where it comes from? Is there a long, complex history behind its creation? Well, buckle up, friends – you’re in for a real treat.
The authentic Okoy is believed to have originated in the East Asian culinary tradition. According to historical records, the first recorded mention of Okoy was during the Tang Dynasty in China (618-907 AD). This tasty snack was believed to have been served in the Imperial Palace at banquets as an additional savory accompaniment.
Okoy made its way to Japan sometime in the 8th century, where it was further perfected by Japanese chefs. Here, it adopted a more recognizable form – the typical crunchy, golden-brown exterior we know and love today. And with the addition of tempura batter, Okoy became a popular street food in Japan.
From Japan, Okoy spread outward to other countries in Asia and eventually across the globe. It remained relatively unknown in the West until the 20th century, when it began to appear on the menus of Chinese restaurants around the world.
Today, Okoy has been transformed into many different forms. Its simple base recipe has been altered and adapted to suit different local tastes and preferences. For example, Koreans may add a variety of vegetables and even kimchi to the batter, while Filipinos may add grated coconut and cream cheese.
Though its origins may be shrouded in mystery, there is no doubt that Okoy has endured throughout the years as a beloved culinary delight. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, this savory snack will no doubt remain a staple of East Asian cuisine for many years to come.
to make it more dynamic
Okoy is one of the most remarkable dishes one can find in the Filipino cuisine. Many would argue that it is one of the most palatable dishes that Filipinos are proud to share with the rest of the world. It is an exceedingly delectable morsel which can be eaten as either a snack or a full meal. In its most common iteration, okoy is a deep-fried savory pancake, traditionally made with a batter of finely grated white sweet potatoes, shredded vegetables and shrimps.
The composition of this delicacy can however differ depending on the region in which it is made. While the traditional version may adhere strictly to the classic ingredients, there are numerous variations of okoy that can also include a variety of ingredients such as ground beef, pork, chicken, mushrooms, grated coconut, chopped onions, ground black pepper, garlic, spring onions, egg and even banana, among others.
In some parts of the country, okoy is made with just the vegetables, mashed into the batter and fried. This type of okoy is called ‘vegokoy’ and is usually enjoyed as a healthier alternative to the more indulgent version. There is also the traditional 'baticol', which is okoy that has been pre-soaked overnight in a lime-infused vinegar solution before being fried. This process makes the batter crunchier and gives the okoy a delightful tartness.
For some, the ultimate form of okoy is the 'Tokneneng'. This type of okoy is characterized by its vibrant orange hue, which comes from the use of food coloring and yellow banana extract. An added bonus is the moisture-filled center which is made up of a sweetened mashed banana filling.
No matter the type of okoy, they are all absolutely scrumptious and can be enjoyed alone, paired with condiments such as vinegar, ketchup and garlic-infused oil, or served alongside other Filipino dishes.