Desserts > Latin American > Argentinean

Mar del Plata-Style Churros Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Vegetable oil for frying

Special equipment needed:
- Large piping bag with a star tip
- Candy thermometer

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Add flour and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
3. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
4. Add eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and shiny.
5. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F on a candy thermometer.
7. Pipe 4-inch strips of dough into the hot oil, cutting them off with scissors. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Remove churros with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
9. In a shallow dish, mix sugar and cinnamon. Roll churros in the mixture until coated.
10. Serve warm.


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

Nutritional information:
Calories: 180
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the amount of salt added to the dough.
- Gluten-free flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

Variations:
- Fill churros with dulce de leche or chocolate ganache for a decadent twist.
- Add orange zest to the dough for a citrusy flavor.
- Dip churros in melted chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is smooth and shiny before piping to ensure even frying.
- Pipe the dough directly into the hot oil to prevent it from sticking to the piping bag.
- Use a star tip for the classic churro shape and texture.

Storage instructions:
Churros are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat churros in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.

Presentation ideas:
Serve churros on a platter with a side of melted chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle churros with powdered sugar or drizzle with additional melted chocolate or caramel sauce.

Pairings:
Serve churros with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee for a classic pairing.

Suggested side dishes:
Churros can be served as a dessert on their own or with a side of fresh fruit for a lighter option.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
- If the churros are too oily, the oil temperature may be too low. Increase the heat and try again.

Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot oil.
- Make sure the dough is cooked through before serving.

Food history:
Churros originated in Spain and were brought to Latin America by Spanish colonizers. Mar del Plata is a coastal city in Argentina known for its delicious churros.

Flavor profiles:
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, Mar del Plata-style churros are sweet and cinnamon-y with a hint of buttery richness.

Serving suggestions:
Serve churros as a dessert or snack any time of day.

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Region: Argentina

Taste: Sweet, Crispy, Cinnamon, Nutty, Cinnamon-Y