Ingredients

• 1 cup grated sweet potato
• ½ cup small shrimp peeled and deveined; leave tails on for extra crunch!
• ½ cup all purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch for extra crispiness
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika or annato powder optional, for color
• ½ cup cold water adjust as needed
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• Oil for frying

Directions

• Prepare the batter – In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and baking powder. Add the grated sweet potato and mix well.
• Add shrimp – Toss the shrimp into the mixture, making sure they are well coated.
• Mix the batter – Gradually add water, mixing until you get a slightly thick, pancake-like batter. If it’s too thick, add a little more water.
• Heat the oil – In a pan, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
• Fry in batches – Scoop small portions of the batter into the oil, flattening them slightly with the spoon. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Drain & serve – Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve hot with a side of spiced vinegar or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

• 8-16-25 Full Recipe
• I added Creole Seasoning per research
• Traditional Palau Ulkoy
• Traditional Palau Ulkoy is a beloved national dish of Palau, consisting of crispy deep-fried fritters made with grated squash, succulent shrimp, and a blend of zesty seasonings. These flavorful fritters showcase Palau's rich culinary heritage, reflecting the island nation's cultural diversity and geographic location in the Pacific Ocean.
• History and Cultural Significance
• Ulkoy is more than just a popular dish in Palau; it represents the country's history and traditions. Palauan cuisine is a unique blend of indigenous recipes, influenced by Spanish, Japanese, and American colonizers, as well as Southeast Asian flavors. Ulkoy is often served at social gatherings, festivals, and celebrations, highlighting its importance in Palauan culture.
• Ingredients and Preparation
• The ingredients used in Ulkoy include:
• - Shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and chopped into small pieces
• - Squash: Grated and adds moisture to the fritters
• - Creole seasoning: Adds a zesty flavor
• - Eggs: Whisked with milk and baking powder to create a smooth batter
• - Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the ingredients together
• - Herbs: Chopped parsley adds freshness and flavor
• The preparation involves lightly seasoning the shrimp, sautéing them with onions, and then mixing them with grated squash, eggs, and a blend of spices. The mixture is then formed into fritters and deep-fried until golden brown.
• Variations and Serving Suggestions
• Ulkoy can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, often served with Creole seasoning for added flavor. It's a versatile dish that showcases Palau's culinary creativity and love for fresh, local ingredients.
• Palauan Cuisine
• Palauan cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh seafood, root vegetables like taro and cassava, and coconut milk. The traditional diet emphasizes natural flavors and minimal use of spices, reflecting the island nation's connection to its land and sea.

Photos