Pasapalos Variados
A delightful assortment of classic Venezuelan small bites, perfect for any gathering or party. This selection includes tequeños, mini empanadas, and cheese balls, offering a variety of textures and flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 12 Tequeños(Frozen or homemade, typically filled with white cheese (like queso blanco or mozzarella).)
- 12 Mini Empanadas(Can be pre-made or store-bought. Common fillings include shredded beef (carne mechada), chicken (pollo), or cheese.)
- 12 Bolitas de Queso (Cheese Balls)(Small fried cheese fritters, often made with a simple dough and grated cheese.)
- 4 cups Vegetable Oil(For deep frying. Ensure enough to submerge the appetizers.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Appetizers: If using homemade tequeños, empanadas, or cheese balls, ensure they are fully prepared and ready for frying. If using frozen, follow package instructions for thawing or direct frying. Ensure all appetizers are at room temperature or slightly chilled before frying to prevent oil splattering.
⏱️ 45 minutes - 2
Heat the Frying Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 175°C (350°F). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature. If you don't have a thermometer, a small piece of dough dropped into the oil should sizzle immediately and float to the surface.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 3
Fry the Tequeños: Carefully place 3-4 tequeños into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are a deep golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Fry the Mini Empanadas: In batches, fry the mini empanadas for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on the wire rack.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Fry the Bolitas de Queso: Fry the cheese balls in batches for 2-4 minutes, until puffed up and golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on the wire rack.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Arrange and Serve: Once all appetizers are fried and drained, arrange them attractively on a serving platter. Serve immediately while hot and crispy, or at room temperature. They are best enjoyed with dipping sauces.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For best results, fry appetizers in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even crisping.
- ✓Make ahead: Tequeños and empanadas can be prepared in advance and frozen. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- ✓Serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as guasacaca (avocado sauce), hogao (tomato and onion sauce), or a simple garlic aioli.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Experiment with different empanada fillings like fish, cheese and plantain, or vegetarian options.
- Add other popular Venezuelan appetizers like 'pastelitos' (small savory pastries) or 'deditos de pescado' (fish fingers).