15 Puerto Rican Surullitos Recipe Get Cooking And Enjoy!
Published on: Mar 31, 2024
Puerto Rican cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino influences, resulting in a vibrant and flavorful culinary culture. One of the most beloved dishes in Puerto Rico is surullitos, a traditional finger food made of cornmeal and cheese. These crispy, savory treats are a staple at parties, street fairs, and family gatherings, and are easy to make at home. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps of making authentic Puerto Rican surullitos, so you can add a touch of Caribbean flavor to your next meal.
The key ingredient in surullitos is cornmeal, which gives the dish its distinct texture and flavor. When shopping for cornmeal, look for masa harina, which is finely ground corn flour commonly used in Latin American cuisine. Regular cornmeal may be too coarse for this recipe and result in a gritty texture.
Cheese
Cheese is another essential ingredient in surullitos, providing a rich and creamy flavor. Traditionally, queso de hoja or queso blanco is used, but you can substitute with mozzarella or another mild, white cheese. Grating the cheese before adding it to the mixture will help it melt evenly and create a smoother consistency.
Milk
To bind the ingredients together and make a pliable dough, milk is added to the cornmeal and cheese mixture. You can use regular milk or substitute with evaporated milk for a richer taste.
Salt and Sugar
A pinch of salt and a teaspoon of sugar are added to balance out the flavors and enhance the sweetness of the cornmeal. Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference.
Oil for frying
To fry the surullitos, you will need a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil. Make sure to use enough oil to cover the surullitos completely when frying.
Instructions:
Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, grated cheese, salt, and sugar. Gradually add in the milk and mix until a soft, pliable dough forms.
Roll the dough into cylinders
Take a small amount of dough and roll it between your hands to form a cylinder about 3 inches long and 1 inch in diameter. Repeat until all the dough is used up.
Fry the surullitos
In a deep pan or pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F. Carefully place the surullitos in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the surullitos and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve and enjoy!
These crispy, cheesy surullitos are best served hot and make a great appetizer or snack. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce, such as a spicy mayo or a tangy salsa. Enjoy the taste of Puerto Rico in every bite!
In Conclusion
Surullitos are a delicious representation of Puerto Rican cuisine, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can make them at home. This recipe is just a starting point, and you can experiment with different types of cheese and seasonings to create your own unique version of surullitos. So next time you're craving a taste of the Caribbean, try making these savory cornmeal fritters and transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Puerto Rico.
