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.

Dominican Chulitos Recipe

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.

Dominican Chulitos

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

  1. 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.

  2. Can I use frozen yuca instead of fresh?

    • Yes, you can use frozen yuca, but make sure to thaw and grate it properly.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. What is the best way to serve chulitos?

    • Chulitos are best served hot and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main dish.

  7. How long can I store chulitos?

    • Chulitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

  8. Can I freeze chulitos?

    • Yes, you can freeze them before frying. When ready to cook, thaw and fry as usual.

  9. What dipping sauce goes well with chulitos?

    • Chulitos can be served with a garlic dipping sauce, spicy mayo, or any sauce of your choice.

  10. Are chulitos gluten-free?

    • Yes, chulitos are naturally gluten-free as they are made from cassava and do not contain wheat flour.

  11. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

    • Yes, you can add ground meat, shredded chicken, or other fillings to customize your chulitos.

  12. What is the origin of chulitos?

    • Chulitos are a popular street food in the Dominican Republic.

  13. How can I make the chulitos less oily?

    • Make sure to drain them on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.

  14. Can I use other spices in the chulitos mixture?

    • Yes, feel free to experiment with other spices to suit your taste preferences.

  15. 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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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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