Appetizer > Latin American > Venezuelan

Chango Fritters Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 ripe plantains, peeled and mashed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Powdered sugar for dusting

Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed plantains, flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, milk, and vegetable oil.

3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.

4. Heat the deep fryer or pot with oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F.

5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the batter into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.

6. Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

7. Dust the fritters with powdered sugar before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Temperature:
- Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- Makes 12-15 fritters

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of plantains, you can use ripe bananas.
- You can substitute the cornmeal with more flour or breadcrumbs.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.

Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- Serve the fritters with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for a dessert version.
- Make savory fritters by omitting the sugar and adding chopped onions, garlic, and herbs to the batter.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the fritters to prevent them from absorbing too much oil.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to make uniform-sized fritters.
- Dust the fritters with powdered sugar just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.

Storage instructions:
- Store the fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the fritters in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the fritters on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of mint.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or cinnamon on top of the fritters before serving.

Pairings:
- Serve the fritters with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet breakfast or snack.

Suggested side dishes:
- Pair the fritters with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt for a balanced breakfast.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the fritters are too dense, add more milk to the batter.
- If the fritters are too runny, add more flour to the batter.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent bacteria growth.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil to prevent burns.

Food history:
- Chango fritters are a traditional dessert in many Latin American countries, especially in the Caribbean.

Flavor profiles:
- The fritters are sweet and slightly spicy with a crispy exterior and soft interior.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the fritters warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

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Taste: Savory, Spicy, Tangy, Sweet, Crunchy