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Squash Okoy (Filipino Kalabasa Fritters) Recipe

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4.2 from 4 reviews

Squash Okoy are crispy Filipino fritters made from julienned kabocha squash, carrots, and green onions, bound together with a flavorful batter containing flour, cornstarch, egg, and fish sauce. These golden-brown fritters are pan-fried to perfection for a deliciously crunchy snack or appetizer.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Filipino

Ingredients

Fritters Batter

  • 1/2 cup all purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup cold water
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables

  • 1 cup julienned kabocha squash
  • 1/4 cup julienned carrots
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions

For Frying

  • Oil for frying (about 1 cup)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the batter: In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup all purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 large egg, 1/3 cup cold water, 1 tablespoon fish sauce, minced garlic cloves, and salt and pepper. Stir until you achieve a smooth batter.
  2. Add the vegetables: Fold in 1 cup julienned kabocha squash, 1/4 cup julienned carrots, and 1/4 cup sliced green onions into the batter. Mix gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
  3. Heat the oil: Pour about 1 cup of oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat until shimmering and hot enough for frying.
  4. Fry the fritters: Using a heaping 1/4 cup scoop, drop the batter into the hot oil and flatten slightly with the back of a spoon. Fry on medium heat until the bottom side is a light golden brown, then carefully flip and cook the other side until evenly golden and crispy.
  5. Drain excess oil: Transfer the cooked fritters to a tray lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
  6. Serve immediately: Enjoy your crispy squash okoy while warm, as a snack or appetizer.

Notes

  • You can substitute kabocha squash with other seasonal squash varieties if unavailable.
  • Adjust the amount of fish sauce for taste or replace with soy sauce for a milder flavor.
  • Be careful to maintain medium heat to avoid burning the fritters while ensuring they cook through.
  • Serve with a vinegar dipping sauce for an authentic Filipino experience.