Nov 9, 2011

Almojábanas (Cheese Fritters)

These frituras, or fritters, are a popular snack in Puerto Rico. This recipe first appeared in our December 2011 issue along with Kathleen Squires's story Island Holiday.

Credit: Penny de los Santos

MAKES ABOUT 40 FRITTERS

INGREDIENTS

Canola oil, for frying
2 cups milk
4 tbsp. unsalted butter
1 tsp. kosher salt
2 cups rice flour
2 tsp. baking powder
3 eggs, lightly beaten
8 oz. queso blanco or mozzarella, shredded

INSTRUCTIONS

Pour oil to a depth of 2″ into a 6-qt. Dutch oven; heat over medium-high heat until a deep-fry thermometer reads 375°. Boil milk, butter, and salt in a 4-qt. saucepan over high heat; let cool for 10 minutes. Stir in flour, baking powder, and eggs; return to heat and cook, stirring, until dough thickens, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in cheese. Drop tablespoons of dough into oil; fry until golden brown, about 2 minutes.