Perfectly round, golden-fried cheese fritters with a crispy shell and chewy, cheesy interior — Colombia's essential Christmas snack.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Presentation Guide
Vessel: paper-lined basket
Accompaniments: natilla, hot chocolate
Instructions
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1
Combine grated cheese, masarepa, cornstarch, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
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2
Add egg and mix until a smooth, pliable dough forms. It should not be sticky.
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3
Roll into golf-ball-sized spheres with damp hands.
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4
Heat oil to 160°C (325°F) — lower temperature is key for even cooking.
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5
Fry buñuelos, turning constantly, for 6-8 min until uniformly deep golden.
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6
Drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Did You Know?
Colombians say if your buñuelos crack while frying, you told a lie that day. Perfect round buñuelos mean a clear conscience.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- deep fryer or heavy pot
- mixing bowl
- slotted spoon
Accompaniments
natilla, hot chocolate
The Story Behind Buñuelos
Buñuelos arrived with Spanish colonizers but were transformed by Colombian cheese traditions. The use of queso costeño and corn flour instead of wheat flour created a distinctly New World fritter. They became inseparable from Novena de Aguinaldos, the nine-day Christmas prayer tradition.
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