Churros

churros

Cuban cuisine is well known for its diverse flavors and unique combinations of ingredients. The country’s rich history has left its mark on the culinary scene, resulting in a variety of dishes that have become popular around the world. Among these delectable treats is the Cuban churro – a sweet, delicious pastry that has been a favorite in the country for generations.

A churro is essentially a fried dough pastry that has been rolled in sugar and cinnamon. It originated in Spain in the 16th century and was brought to Cuba by the Spanish colonizers. However, over time, the Cuban version of the churro has evolved to include some unique twists that set it apart from its Spanish counterpart.

Cuban churros are longer and thinner than traditional churros, with a crisper exterior and soft, airy interior. The dough is made with a simple mixture of flour, water, and salt, which is then piped into hot oil to create the signature shape. Once fried, the churros are rolled in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon, making them sweet and fragrant.

While churros are traditionally served as a dessert or snack, the Cuban version often includes savory fillings such as ham and cheese, shredded chicken, or seasoned ground beef. These savory churros are often enjoyed as a mid-day snack or a light lunch.

One hallmark of Cuban churros is the use of a dipping sauce. While traditional churros are often enjoyed on their own or with a simple chocolate or caramel dipping sauce, Cuban churros are typically served with a spicy tomato-based sauce known as “mojo.” This tangy sauce provides a savory complement to the sweet pastry, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

Making Cuban churros at home is a relatively straightforward process. The dough can be made with basic pantry ingredients, and the frying process is easy as long as a few simple rules are followed. For example, the oil should be hot enough to fry the dough but not so hot that the churros burn or cook unevenly.

To make the dough, flour, salt, and water are combined in a bowl and mixed until a smooth, elastic dough forms. The dough is then piped into hot oil, cut into desired lengths, and fried until golden brown. After frying, the churros are rolled in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon and served immediately with a side of mojo sauce for dipping.

In conclusion, Cuban churros are a delightfully sweet and savory pastry that is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. While similar to traditional churros in some ways, the Cuban version has its unique twists and flavors that set it apart. With a bit of practice, making Cuban churros at home is a fun and delicious way to bring a taste of Cuba to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the butter, salt, sugar, and vanilla extract and stir until the butter has melted.

  2. Add the flour and stir until the mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat and let cool for 2-3 minutes.

  3. Add one egg at a time, stirring vigorously until each egg is fully incorporated.

  4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, deep saucepan over medium heat.

  5. Fill a large piping bag fitted with a star-shaped tip with the churro dough.

  6. Once the oil is hot, pipe 6-inch long churros into the oil, cutting the dough with a pair of scissors.

  7. Fry the churros for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

  8. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon.

  9. Roll the warm churros in the sugar-cinnamon mixture and serve. Enjoy!