Filipino Sweet Potato Carrot Fritters

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €6.68 · €1.67/serving

• 3 Thai chiles, thinly sliced (remove seeds for milder heat)Est. price €0.15–€0.30
• 1 fresh garlic clove, finely chopped (crush with flat side of knife for enhanced flavor)Est. price €0.05–€0.15
• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped (rinse under cold water for milder taste)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1/4 cup sugarcane vinegar or distilled white vinegar (choose according to preference)Est. price €0.20–€0.50
• Kosher salt, to taste (adjust seasoning before serving)Est. price €0.01–€0.05
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks (pat dry before frying to avoid oil splatter)Est. price €0.80–€1.60
• Kosher salt, to taste (season vegetables before frying)Est. price €0.01–€0.05
• 8 cups vegetable oil, for frying (maintain oil temperature for crispy results)Est. price €0.66–€0.99
• 3/4 cup club soda, chilled (keep batter cold for a light texture)Est. price €0.25–€0.50
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce (enhances umami flavor)Est. price €0.10–€0.25

Steps

1. 1

   In a small bowl, combine the chiles, garlic, onion, and vinegar. Season the mixture with salt to taste.

2. 2

   Begin by cutting the sweet potatoes and carrots into thin planks measuring 3x1/4 inches. If available, utilize a mandoline for precision. Proceed to slice them lengthwise into matchsticks. Transfer the sliced vegetables to a medium-sized bowl and season with a few pinches of salt. Allow them to rest until they slightly soften, which should take around 30 minutes. Afterward, rinse off the salt and gently dry the vegetables before use.

3. 3

   In a large heavy pot, pour enough oil so that it reaches a depth of at least 2 inches, leaving about 4 inches of space from the top to prevent any bubbling over when the fritters are added. Attach a thermometer to the side of the pot and begin heating the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature between 330°F and 340°F.

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• Cultural note

  Filipino Sweet Potato Carrot Fritters are a popular street food in the Philippines, known for their crispy texture and flavorful combination of sweet potatoes and shrimp. The use of fish sauce and cilantro adds traditional Filipino flavors to the dish.

• Seasonal note

  Sweet potatoes and carrots are typically in season during the fall and winter months, making it an ideal time to make these fritters. Cilantro and Thai chiles can be grown in the summer for a fresh touch.

• Health note

  These fritters are a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and protein from the shrimp. However, the dish is high in fat and sodium, so it's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.