Buñuelos de Yuca con Miel
These delightful Nicaraguan fritters, Buñuelos de Yuca, are made from grated yuca and cheese, deep-fried to a golden crisp, and then drenched in a sweet cinnamon and clove-infused syrup. They are a popular snack for special occasions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Yuca root(peeled and grated)
- 0.5 lb Queso seco (dry cheese)(finely grated (can substitute with cotija or parmesan))
- 1 large Egg
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 4 cups Vegetable oil(for frying)
- 1.5 cups Water
- 1 lb Brown sugar (or piloncillo)
- 2 Cinnamon sticks
- 4 Cloves
- 1 whole Lemon(juice of)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the syrup: In a saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in lemon juice and set aside.
- 2
For the buñuelos: In a large bowl, combine the grated yuca, grated cheese, egg, and baking powder. Mix well until a cohesive dough forms. Let rest for 10-12 minutes.
- 3
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
💡 Tip: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for even frying. - 4
Using a spoon or your hands, form small balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter) from the yuca dough. Carefully drop 4-5 balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
💡 Tip: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. - 5
Fry the buñuelos for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- 6
Remove the buñuelos from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining dough.
💡 Tip: Draining on paper towels removes excess oil. - 7
Serve the warm buñuelos immediately, drizzled generously with the prepared syrup.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the yuca is finely grated for a smoother dough.
- ✓If the dough is too wet, add a little more grated cheese or a tablespoon of flour.
- ✓The syrup can be made ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the buñuelo dough for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of Nicaraguan coffee or hot chocolate.