Mandocas
Mandocas are traditional sweet fried dough rings from the Zulia state of Venezuela, featuring the unique sweetness of ripe plantain and panela (unrefined whole cane sugar), complemented by salty queso blanco and aromatic anise seeds. They are a popular breakfast or snack item.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Masarepa (pre-cooked corn flour)(Ensure it's the type used for arepas or similar doughs, not cornmeal.)
- 1 large Ripe plantain(Should be very ripe, with black spots on the skin, for maximum sweetness and softness.)
- 100g Panela (or piloncillo)(Grated or finely chopped. This is unrefined whole cane sugar, providing a molasses-like flavor.)
- 100g Queso blanco (Venezuelan white cheese)(Finely grated. If unavailable, a firm, salty, low-moisture white cheese like feta (rinsed to reduce saltiness) or a mild farmer's cheese can be substituted.)
- 1 tsp Anise seeds(Lightly crushed for better flavor release, or used whole.)
- 1/4 cup (approx.) Water(May be needed to achieve the right dough consistency.)
- For frying Vegetable oil or lard(Enough to fill a pot or deep skillet about 2-3 inches deep.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the plantain: Peel the ripe plantain and mash it thoroughly in a large bowl until smooth and no lumps remain. A fork or potato masher works well.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Combine dry ingredients: To the mashed plantain, add the masarepa, grated panela, grated queso blanco, and anise seeds. Mix well with your hands until everything is evenly distributed.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Form the dough: Gradually add a small amount of water (start with 1-2 tablespoons) if the mixture seems too dry. Knead the mixture until it forms a cohesive, pliable dough that is not sticky. It should be firm enough to shape.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Shape the mandocas: Lightly grease your hands with a little oil. Take a portion of the dough (about 2-3 tablespoons) and roll it into a log. Then, form the log into a ring shape, pinching the ends together to seal. Ensure the rings are not too thick, as this will affect frying time.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Heat the oil: Pour the frying oil into a deep skillet or pot to a depth of 2-3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 175°C (350°F). You can test the oil by dropping a tiny piece of dough; it should sizzle immediately and float to the surface.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Fry the mandocas: Carefully lower 3-4 mandocas at a time into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until they are a deep golden brown and puffed up. They should sound crisp when tapped.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 7
Drain and serve: Remove the fried mandocas from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The ripeness of the plantain is key to the sweetness and texture of the mandocas.
- ✓Adjust the amount of water as needed; the dough should be firm but workable.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying. Too cool, and they'll be greasy; too hot, and they'll burn before cooking through.
- ✓These are a specialty of the Zulia state in Venezuela.
- ✓Enjoy as a delightful breakfast treat or a sweet snack.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a cheesier mandoca, increase the amount of queso blanco.
- Omit the anise seeds if you prefer a less aromatic flavor.
- Some recipes include a pinch of salt in the dough to balance the sweetness.