Panderos (Colombian Cheese and Corn Bread Rings)

🧂 Ingredients

• 1 cup Masarepa (pre-cooked corn flour)(Ensure it's masarepa, not masa harina. Brands like Harina PAN or P.A.N. work well.)
• 200g Shredded cheese(A blend of white cheese like costeño or queso fresco, and a mild melting cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack is recommended for flavor and texture. Adjust to your preference.)
• 100g Unsalted butter, softened(Using softened butter will make it easier to incorporate into the dough.)
• 2 tbsp Granulated sugar(For a touch of sweetness. Can be adjusted to taste.)
• 1/2 tsp Salt(Enhances the flavors.)
• 1/4 cup (approx.) Water or milk(To help bind the dough. Add gradually as needed.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine the masarepa, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

   ⏱️ 10 minutes
2. 2

   Add the shredded cheese to the bowl. Mix well to distribute the cheese evenly throughout the crumbly mixture.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
3. 3

   Gradually add the water or milk, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until a cohesive dough forms. The dough should be firm but pliable, not sticky. You may not need all the liquid, or you might need a little more, depending on the humidity and the masarepa.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
4. 4

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
5. 5

   Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a log about 15 cm (6 inches) long. Gently form each log into a ring shape, pinching the ends together to seal. If the dough is too dry, moisten your fingers with a little water. If it's too sticky, dust your hands lightly with masarepa.

   ⏱️ 10 minutes
6. 6

   Place the formed panderos on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch. The edges should be slightly crisp.

   ⏱️ 25-30 minutes
7. 7

   Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

   ⏱️ 10 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓For a sweeter panderos, you can increase the sugar slightly.
• ✓For a cheesier flavor, use a higher proportion of cheese or a stronger flavored cheese.
• ✓These are best enjoyed fresh, ideally within a day or two of baking.
• ✓Serve warm with a cup of Colombian coffee for an authentic experience.

🔄 Variations

• Add a pinch of cumin or a finely chopped jalapeño for a savory kick.
• Incorporate a small amount of finely chopped cilantro into the dough.
• For a richer dough, substitute half of the water/milk with melted butter.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving