Papaya Lumpia ala Mode

Papaya Lumpia Ala Mode is a delightful fusion of Filipino and Western desserts, combining the crunchy texture of lumpia with the creamy goodness of vanilla ice cream. This unique treat takes the humble green papaya and carrot and transforms them into a sweet, crispy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The contrast between the warm, caramelized filling and the cold, velvety ice cream makes it an unforgettable indulgence.

To start, prepare the filling by melting ½ cup of butter (either salted or unsalted) in a large pan over medium heat. Once the butter has fully melted and becomes fragrant, add 4 cups of sliced green papaya and 4 cups of sliced carrots to the pan. Stir to coat the vegetables with the butter, allowing them to soften and cook down for about 5 to 7 minutes.

As the papaya and carrots begin to soften, sprinkle 3 tablespoons of brown sugar over the mixture, stirring well to ensure even distribution. The sugar will start to melt and coat the slices, giving them a beautiful caramel glaze. Next, add 1 teaspoon of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors. Continue cooking the mixture for another 5 minutes or until the papaya and carrots are tender but not mushy.

Once the vegetables have softened and the sugar has caramelized, pour in 1 can of condensed milk. The condensed milk not only adds sweetness but also creates a creamy, luscious sauce that binds the filling together. Stir continuously to prevent burning and allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens and turns golden. Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.

To assemble the Papaya Lumpia, lay a lumpia wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the cooled filling near one corner of the wrapper, then fold the bottom corner over the filling. Fold in the sides and roll tightly to form a log, sealing the edge with a dab of water. Repeat the process with the remaining filling and wrappers.

In a deep frying pan, heat cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot enough, gently place the lumpia in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each lumpia for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked lumpia to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

For the ala mode element, scoop generous portions of vanilla ice cream onto each serving plate. Arrange two or three lumpia next to the ice cream, allowing the contrast of hot and cold to create a mouthwatering presentation. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle the lumpia with caramel sauce or a bit of the reserved condensed milk.

The final result is an irresistible dessert that balances crunchy, warm lumpia with the cool, creamy comfort of vanilla ice cream. The caramelized papaya and carrot filling surprises with its mild sweetness and tender texture, while the hint of salt rounds out the flavors. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the crispy wrapper and the melting ice cream, making Papaya Lumpia Ala Mode a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

This dessert is perfect for those who love experimenting with traditional ingredients and transforming them into something new and exciting. Whether served as a sweet ending to a Filipino feast or as a unique snack on a sunny afternoon, this dish promises to captivate taste buds and leave a lasting impression. Treat yourself to this innovative twist on lumpia and discover the joy of blending Filipino flavors with a classic dessert concept!