Ukoy na Dilis

4.20 from 5 votes

Ukoy na Dilis is easy to make with simple ingredients and budget-friendly. It's crunchy, flavorful, and delicious as an appetizer or main dish.

Prep Time10

Cook Time10

Total Time20

Course: Main Entree

Cuisine: Filipino

Servings: servings

Calories: 203kcal

Rinse fish and drain well. Pat dry.
In a pot over medium heat, heat about 2-inch deep of oil to about 350 F.
In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well distributed.
Add egg, water, and fish sauce. Stir to combine.
Add fish, shallots and green onions. Gently stir to combine.
Using a large spoon, scoop about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mixture and gently slide the mixture into the hot oil. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp.
Using a slotted spoon, remove from the pan and drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Serve.

Do not over-stir the batter to prevent gluten formation; a few lumps are fine.
Drain the fish well and pat dry with paper towels for the coating to adhere better.
For the best crunch, use enough oil to fully submerge the smelt and heat to an optimal temperature of 350 F to 375 F. Too high, and the fritters will burn before sufficiently cooked; too low, and they will absorb a lot more grease.
Do not overcrowd the pan and fry in batches as needed to keep the temperature from plummeting. Clean the oil with a strainer and heat it to 350 F before adding the next set.