Colombian Bunuelos

Buñuelos are golden Colombian cheese fritters with a crisp outside and soft, tender middle. They are great for holidays, snacks, or breakfast with coffee.

Ingredients

• 1 cup finely grated queso costeño or feta
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup tapioca starch or yuca flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp milk, plus more if needed
• 1 tbsp butter, softened
• Oil, for frying

Directions

1. Mix cheese, cornstarch, tapioca starch, sugar, and baking powder in a bowl.
2. Add egg, milk, and butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Roll into small balls, adding a splash more milk only if the dough feels dry.
4. Add oil to a deep pot and heat gently to about 325 degrees F.
5. Fry buñuelos in batches, turning often, until puffed and golden.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

Mood Messy Tip

Keep the oil moderate. If it is too hot, the outside browns before the middle cooks.