Tequenos
Tequeños are crispy, golden cheese sticks wrapped in a thin layer of dough and fried to perfection. A staple in Venezuelan cuisine, they are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party favorite. With a crunchy exterior and melty cheese center, these treats are impossible to resist!
Ingredients
- 2 cups wheat flour All-purpose works best
- ½ teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter Softened
- ½ cup water or milk For dough moisture
- 10 sticks queso blanco Cut into 3-inch sticks
- 2 cups vegetable oil For frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the butter and mix until crumbly. Gradually add water or milk, kneading until a smooth dough forms. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Cut and Wrap the Cheese: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut it into ½-inch-wide strips. Wrap each cheese stick completely, making sure to seal the edges.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Tequeños: Carefully place them into the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the tequeños and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a healthier option, bake tequeños at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or air-fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Serve with guasacaca, garlic sauce, or spicy tomato dip for extra flavor.
- Store uncooked tequeños in the freezer for up to 3 months and fry them directly from frozen.