Kwek Kwek: Filipino Street Food Delight

Name: Kwek Kwek: Filipino Street Food Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 12 pieces quail eggs (hard-boiled and peeled); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon annatto powder (for colour); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup water (cold); 2 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)

25 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Discover the vibrant and flavourful world of Kwek Kwek, a popular Filipino street snack made from quail eggs coated in an orange batter.

Prep

15 min

Cook

10 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Kwek Kwek is a beloved Filipino street food that features quail eggs coated in a bright orange batter and deep-fried to perfection. This dish is a staple in street food markets across the Philippines, offering a delightful crunch with a savoury taste that keeps you coming back for more. Our version of Kwek Kwek ensures a crisp exterior and a soft, flavourful interior. The combination of the marinated eggs and the vibrant dipping sauce creates a balance of flavours that is simply irresistible. It's perfect for anyone looking to experience authentic Filipino street cuisine at home.

Instructions

Prepare the quail eggs

Boil the quail eggs for 3 minutes, then transfer to cold water. Peel the shells carefully.

Pro tip: Use a spoon to gently tap and peel the egg shells.

Mix the dry ingredients

Combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, annatto powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.

Pro tip: Sift the dry ingredients to avoid lumps.

Make the batter

Gradually add cold water to the dry ingredients, stirring to form a smooth batter. Chill for 10 minutes.

Pro tip: A chilled batter will result in a crispier texture.

Heat the oil

In a medium saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat to 180°C (350°F).

Pro tip: Use a thermometer to ensure accurate oil temperature.

Coat the quail eggs

Dip each quail egg into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.

Pro tip: Use a skewer or fork to handle the eggs without mess.

Fry the eggs

Carefully drop the coated eggs into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Pro tip: Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Drain and serve

Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Pro tip: Serve while hot for the best taste and texture.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh quail eggs for the best results.
Chill the batter for a crispier coating.
Ensure oil is hot enough to prevent soggy kwek kwek.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is kwek kwek in Filipino street food?

Kwek kwek is a popular Filipino street food made of battered and deep-fried quail eggs.

How many calories are in kwek kwek?

Each serving of kwek kwek contains approximately 150 calories.

What is the orange coating on kwek kwek?

The orange coating on kwek kwek is made from a batter containing annatto powder, which gives it its distinct colour.

How do you make kwek kwek crispy?

To make kwek kwek crispy, ensure the batter is chilled and the oil is hot before frying.

Can you reheat kwek kwek?

Yes, reheat kwek kwek in an oven to maintain its crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Kwek Kwek warm, accompanied by a spicy vinegar dipping sauce to enhance its flavours. It pairs well with other street food favourites like fish balls and lumpia. To make ahead, prepare the eggs and batter in advance, keeping them separate until ready to fry. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven for best results.