Churros

Churros are more than a simple dessert; they are a beloved treat that excites taste buds all over the world. These deep-fried pastries, often enjoyed with sugar sprinkles and a rich chocolate dipping sauce, are famous both as street food and café favorites. Their history is as fascinating as their flavors, showcasing a journey that spans countries and cultures.

Evidence suggests that churros originated in Spain. One popular story is that Spanish shepherds, unable to bake bread in remote areas, created churros, a simple dough cooked over an open fire. This humble beginning paved the way for a snack that would capture hearts worldwide.

The Spanish Connection

In Spain, churros are a breakfast staple, often served alongside a cup of thick hot chocolate for dipping. This popular pairing adds a rich and indulgent twist. Traditional churros are slender and long, frequently twisted into knots or spirals, and are served warm and crispy.

Churros hold a significant place in Spanish festivities, from bustling fairs to late-night outings. Their texture—crispy on the outside and soft within—makes them irresistible to those who try them. Statistics indicate that churros account for about 40% of the sales in Spanish pastry shops, highlighting their popularity.

Churros in Latin America

As churros traveled to Latin America, they adapted to local tastes. Each country added its unique flavors and styles. For example, Mexican churros are often thicker and filled with sweet treats like dulce de leche or rich chocolate. This delightful filling offers a pleasant surprise with every bite.

A delightful churro filled with rich chocolate.

In addition to diverse fillings, the presentation of churros varies widely. In Colombia, churros may be rolled in cinnamon sugar or served with a variety of dips like caramel, leading to exciting taste adventures. This adaptability showcases how churros have become woven into the culinary traditions of Latin American countries.

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Churros

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 5 mins

Total Time: 20 mins

Ingredients

• 1 Cup of Water (240 ML)

• 6 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (85 Grams)

• 1 Tbsp Granulated Sugar (13 grams)

• 1/2 tsp Salt

• 1 Cup of All-Purpose Flour (120 Grams)

• 3 Large Eggs

• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

• Vegetable oil or lard for frying (Lard has a better flavor in my opinion)

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Instructions

1. Add the Water, Butter, Sugar, and Salt inside a medium size pot. Start to boil on Medium high until its all mix together.

2. Add the Flour all at once and lower the heat just a little bit. Start to mix dough with a wooden spoon constantly until you see the dough lose most of it moisture and you will see a little skim of the dough on the bottom of the pot.

3. Take it off the heat, put it inside a new bowl, and slowly incorporate the eggs into the dough. This will bring in moisture but also make the dough come together.

4. Let it cool down a little bit then add it inside a pastry bag with a star tip. Heat up the oil in a pot up to 350 degrees then slowly pipe the batter into the oil and snip the last piece with scissors so it comes out clean.

5. The churro will fall into the oil then slowly start to rise and float on top. When the churro does this and is brown all the way take it out. At this point you can eat by itself or you can roll it hot inside some cinnamon sugar. Best condiments would chocolate sauce or caramel.

Fresh Hot Churros

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Shelf Life: It best to eat these right away but you can freeze these for a good couple of months if you have to. Just know the flavor is not going to taste the best quality when you reheat it inside a microwave or oven.