Mate Churros
Mate Churros is a delightful twist on traditional churros, incorporating the distinctive flavors of mate, a popular drink in South America. Churros, originally believed to be introduced by Spanish shepherds, quickly spread across Latin America, becoming a beloved street food. By infusing mate, this recipe brings a novel and exciting flavor profile, honoring both cultures.
Ingredients
- Water: 1 cup
- Mate leaves: 2 tablespoons
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup
- Eggs: 3 large
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Sugar: 1 cup
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Preparation
Step 1: Infuse the Mate
Start by bringing 1 cup of water to a simmer in a small saucepan. Add the mate leaves and let it steep for about 5 minutes to extract a concentrated flavor. Strain the liquid and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the mate infusion, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat to low, then quickly stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Using a wooden spoon or an electric mixer on low speed, beat the dough while adding 3 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The dough should be smooth and glossy when finished.
Cooking Process
Fill a heavy-bottomed pot with vegetable oil to a depth of at least 2 inches. Heat the oil to 375°F. Alternatively, if you’re uncertain of the temperature, place a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the top immediately, the oil is ready. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
Step 4: Fry the Churros
Carefully pipe 4-6 inch strips of dough into the hot oil, cutting the end with scissors. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes. Please ensure to use a cooking timer to monitor each batch precisely to avoid overcooking. Use a slotted spoon to remove the churros and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Step 5: Coat the Churros
In a shallow dish, mix 1 cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Roll the warm churros in the mixture until fully coated. Best served immediately, ensuring the external coating remains crunchy while the inside stays soft and springy.
Serving Suggestions
Mate Churros can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a dipping sauce. Consider serving them with chocolate dipping sauce or dulce de leche for a truly decadent experience.