Cassava Fritters (Dominican Chulitos) Recipe
Discover the authentic flavors of Dominican cuisine with this easy-to-follow recipe for Cassava Fritters, also known as Chulitos. Perfect for any occasion, these crispy, golden fritters are filled with savory cheese and seasoned with anise for a unique taste experience. Follow Kelvin's Kitchen for more delicious recipes and step-by-step guides.
Cultural Authenticity: Cassava Fritters, or Chulitos, are a beloved street food in the Dominican Republic, known for their unique blend of freshly grated yuca and savory fillings. This recipe offers a taste of authentic Dominican cuisine, bringing the flavors and traditions of the Caribbean right to your kitchen.
Versatile and Delicious: These fritters are incredibly versatile, allowing for various fillings such as cheese or ground meat. They are perfect as appetizers or main dishes, making them a fantastic choice for any meal or gathering. The combination of anise seeds and sugar in the dough adds a delightful hint of sweetness to the savory profile.
FAQs
Chulitos
What are chulitos made of?
Chulitos are made from freshly grated cassava (yuca) mixed with sugar, anise seeds, salt, and eggs, and filled with cheese.
Can I use frozen yuca instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen yuca, but make sure to thaw and grate it properly.
What type of cheese is best for chulitos?
Frying cheese is typically used, but you can also use mozzarella or any cheese that melts well.
How do I prevent the chulitos from falling apart while frying?
Make sure the mixture is well combined and the oil is hot enough before adding the chulitos.
Can I bake chulitos instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown, but they may not be as crispy.
What is the best way to serve chulitos?
Chulitos are best served hot and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main dish.
How long can I store chulitos?
Chulitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze chulitos?
Yes, you can freeze them before frying. When ready to cook, thaw and fry as usual.
What dipping sauce goes well with chulitos?
Chulitos can be served with a garlic dipping sauce, spicy mayo, or any sauce of your choice.
Are chulitos gluten-free?
Yes, chulitos are naturally gluten-free as they are made from cassava and do not contain wheat flour.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Yes, you can add ground meat, shredded chicken, or other fillings to customize your chulitos.
What is the origin of chulitos?
Chulitos are a popular street food in the Dominican Republic.
How can I make the chulitos less oily?
Make sure to drain them on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.
Can I use other spices in the chulitos mixture?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other spices to suit your taste preferences.
Is it necessary to use anise seeds in the recipe?
Anise seeds add a unique flavor, but if you don't like them, you can omit them or substitute with another spice.
Make it
Cassava Fritters (Dominican Chulitos) Recipe
Ingredients:
3 lbs Fresh Yuca (Cassava)
½ cup Frying Cheese, cut into small pieces
1 tsp Sugar
1 ½ tsp Anise Seeds
1 ½ tsp Salt (or to taste)
2 Eggs
Canola oil for frying
Instructions:
Prepare the Yuca:
Peel, slice, and grate the fresh yuca using a fine grater. Make sure to remove any fibrous parts to achieve a smooth texture.
Mix Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the grated yuca, sugar, anise seeds, salt, and eggs. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Shape and Fill:
Take a small portion of the yuca mixture, flatten it in your hand, place a piece of cheese in the center, and mold the mixture around the cheese to form a ball or cylinder shape.
Fry Until Golden:
Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chulitos in the oil and fry them in batches until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Drain the fried chulitos on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!
Additional Notes:
Texture: Ensure the yuca is thoroughly grated for a smooth consistency. You can use a food processor for quicker and easier grating.
Taste Adjustment: Adjust the amount of salt and sugar to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter fritter, add a bit more sugar.
Serving Suggestions: Chulitos can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main dish with a side of salad or dipping sauce.
Storage: You can prepare the yuca mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for a day. Fry the chulitos just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 10 servings):
Calories: 180
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 320mg
Total Carbohydrate: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 4g
Enjoy making and savoring these delicious Dominican Chulitos, bringing a taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen!
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