Colombian cuisine is a flavorful tapestry of diverse ingredients and influences, and one delightful treat that reflects this culinary richness is the beloved "bunuelo.
These cheesy dough balls are a staple during holidays and special occasions in Colombia.
If you're ready to embark on a culinary adventure, join us in learning how to make Colombian bunuelos – a savory, crispy, and utterly satisfying snack.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: Approximately 20 bunuelos (varies based on size)
Yield: Varies based on the size of each bunuelo
Ingredients
- 2 cups of masarepa (precooked cornmeal)
- 1 cup of queso fresco (fresh cheese), finely grated
- 1/2 cup of cassava starch (yuca starch)
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the masarepa, cassava starch, salt, and baking powder. Mix them together thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of the ingredients.
Add the Cheese:
Grate the queso fresco finely and add it to the dry mixture. The cheese will not only add a delightful flavor but also create a tender, crumbly texture in your bunuelos.
Blend in the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until you have a dough-like consistency. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a bit more milk.
Shape the Bunuelos:
Now comes the fun part! Take a portion of the dough and roll it between your hands to create small balls, about the size of golf balls. The dough should hold its shape without cracking.
Heat the Oil:
In a deep pan or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You'll want enough oil to submerge the bunuelos while frying.
Fry to Golden Perfection:
Carefully place the bunuelos in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they turn a beautiful golden brown, usually about 4-5 minutes per side. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Drain and Dust (Optional):
Remove the bunuelos from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. If you like a hint of sweetness, you can dust them with sugar while they're still warm.
Serve and Enjoy:
Colombian bunuelos are best enjoyed fresh and warm. They have a delightful combination of crispy exteriors and soft, cheesy interiors. Serve them as a snack, side dish, or even as a unique addition to your breakfast spread.
Colombian bunuelos are a delightful testament to the country's rich culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed during holidays, gatherings, or as an everyday treat, these cheesy dough balls are sure to please your taste buds and transport you to the heart of Colombia. Gather your ingredients, embrace the adventure, and savor the deliciousness of homemade Colombian bunuelos. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying experience!
Nutrition Facts (per bunuelo)
Calories: 110 kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 90mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
10 Simple Colombian Bunuelos Recipe
Colombian buñuelos are delightful fried dough balls, a beloved snack during the holiday season and beyond. Made from simple ingredients like cornflour, cheese, and eggs, they're easy to prepare.
Here are 10 simple recipes for Colombian buñuelos that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Get ready to savor these golden, cheesy treats from Colombia in the comfort of your home!
1. Colombian Cheese-Stuffed Bunuelos
Take your classic bunuelos and add a surprise inside. Stuff them with cubes of mozzarella or your favorite cheese. As they fry, the cheese melts into gooey goodness.
2. Sweet Plantain Bunuelos
Incorporate ripe plantains into your dough for a touch of sweetness. These bunuelos are a harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors.
3. Coconut-infused Bunuelos
Add a tropical twist to your bunuelos by mixing shredded coconut into the dough. The result? A delightful coconut-infused flavor and a hint of crunch.
4. Chocolate Bunuelos
For a dessert-worthy treat, mix cocoa powder into your dough. These chocolatey bunuelos are perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
5. Cinnamon and Sugar-Coated Bunuelos
After frying, roll your bunuelos in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. This coating adds a warm, sweet-spicy flavor.
6. Yuca Bunuelos
Swap out some of the masarepa with yuca flour for a twist on tradition. Yuca bunuelos have a slightly different texture but are equally delicious.
7. Anise-Flavored Bunuelos
Infuse your dough with a touch of anise extract or ground anise seeds for a unique and aromatic twist on the classic recipe.
8. Guava-Stuffed Bunuelos
Insert a cube of guava paste into the center of each bunuelo before frying. The contrast of sweet guava and savory dough is heavenly.
9. Jalapeño and Cheese Bunuelos
Add some spice to your bunuelos by mixing in finely chopped jalapeño peppers and shredded cheese. A perfect combination for those who like it hot.
10. Nutella-Filled Bunuelos
For a decadent dessert, fill your bunuelos with Nutella. As you bite into them, you'll discover a gooey Nutella center that's pure indulgence.
Colombian Buñuelos, small fried dough balls with a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, are a beloved treat during the holiday season and beyond. Here are 10 easy-to-follow recipes to whip up these delightful snacks at home. From traditional to creative variations, you'll find the perfect Buñuelo recipe to satisfy your craving for these Colombian treasures.
