Buñuelos Colombianos
Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, these Colombian cheese fritters are a beloved Christmas essential. Made with salty costeño cheese and tapioca starch, they puff up beautifully when fried to a golden brown.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400g Queso costeño(This is a firm, salty, white Colombian cheese. If unavailable, a firm, well-drained, low-moisture mozzarella or a very firm feta (rinsed to reduce saltiness) can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.)
- 1 cup (approximately 120g) Tapioca starch (almidón de yuca)(Also known as cassava starch. Essential for the characteristic chewy texture.)
- 2 large Eggs(Room temperature eggs will incorporate better into the dough.)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar(For a touch of sweetness and to aid browning.)
- Approximately 4-6 cups (1-1.5 liters) Vegetable oil or other neutral oil(For deep frying. Ensure enough oil to fully submerge the buñuelos.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cheese: Finely grate the queso costeño using a box grater or crumble it into very small pieces. The goal is to have a fine, almost paste-like consistency when mixed.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the grated cheese, tapioca starch, eggs, and granulated sugar. Mix with your hands or a sturdy spoon until a cohesive, slightly sticky dough forms. It should hold together without being overly wet or dry. If it seems too dry, add a tiny splash of water (about 1 teaspoon at a time); if too sticky, add a little more tapioca starch.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Shape the buñuelos: Lightly grease your hands with a little oil. Roll small portions of the dough into smooth balls, about 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm) in diameter. Ensure they are well-formed and have no cracks, as this can cause them to break apart during frying.
⏱️ 8 minutes - 4
Heat the oil: Pour the oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 170°C (340°F). Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy. If you don't have a thermometer, a small piece of dough dropped into the oil should sizzle immediately and float to the surface.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Fry the buñuelos: Carefully lower 3-5 buñuelos at a time into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for approximately 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally with a slotted spoon or spider strainer. They should puff up and float. Continue frying until they are evenly golden brown and crispy on all sides. The cheese inside will melt and create a chewy interior.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 6
Drain and serve: Remove the fried buñuelos from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while warm.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The buñuelos should puff up significantly and may even turn themselves in the hot oil. If they don't puff, the oil might not be hot enough, or the dough might be too dense.
- ✓Buñuelos are a traditional treat, especially popular during the Christmas season in Colombia.
- ✓Serve these delicious fritters warm with a side of traditional Colombian hot chocolate (chocolate santafereño) for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a sweeter buñuelo, increase the sugar in the dough slightly or consider serving with a drizzle of honey or panela syrup.
- Some recipes incorporate a small amount of finely chopped cilantro or parsley into the dough for added flavor.