Fried Ubad Wonton

Fried Ubad Wontons are a delightful reinvention of a beloved snack—crispy on the outside, hearty and flavorful on the inside, and packed with a uniquely Filipino ingredient: ubad, the tender core of a banana stalk. Often overlooked, ubad lends a mild, nutty crunch that blends beautifully with classic stir-fried vegetables, turning this dish into a crispy bite of comfort and creativity.

The recipe starts with a flavorful sauté of garlic, ginger, and red onion—the foundation of many Filipino dishes. Mushrooms are added for their umami depth, followed by cabbage, carrots, and the hero ingredient, ubad. Slowly cooked until nearly dry, the filling becomes concentrated and aromatic. A splash of soy sauce and sesame oil gives it that crave-worthy Asian flair, while a touch of MSG, salt, and pepper heightens every flavor. Spring onions bring freshness, and a bit of flour helps bind the mix, making it easy to wrap.

Each wonton is carefully filled, folded, and sealed before being fried to golden perfection. The result? A crisp, satisfying exterior that gives way to a warm, savory, veggie-filled center with a subtle, unexpected twist. Dip it in sweet chili sauce for a hit of spice and sweetness or in soy sauce for something more classic and savory.

Perfect as an appetizer, merienda, or party snack, Fried Ubad Wontons are a great way to celebrate local ingredients while giving familiar flavors a creative, modern spin. They're simple to make, fun to eat, and guaranteed to spark curiosity at the table. Whether you're a long-time fan of ubad or discovering it for the first time, this dish proves just how versatile—and delicious—Filipino produce can be.