Craving something crazy? Is your sweet tooth begging for something new, or do you need a satisfying midday munchie. I got you with Cuban Sweet Frituras. Think of these frituras as delicious little pillows of malanga and yuca fried until the perfect golden crunch is created and then topped or dipped in a simple sweet syrup. They are a unique twist on the classic Cuban fritters. Traditionally savory, frituras are typically made with grated or shredded root vegetables, meat, or a combination of both, and then deep-fried until golden brown. But today, we’re ditching the savory for a sweet treat!
Let me tell you a story about determination, deliciousness, and a little family secret. Like many home cooks, I was obsessed with replicating the magic of my Cuban husband’s abuela’s cooking. One dish in particular had me stumped: Sweet Frituras. These delightful treats always turned a mysterious pink in the center when I attempted them at home.
After three frustrating tries, each resulting in a batch of rosy frituras, I finally caved and begged my sister-in-law for her secret. With a knowing smile, she revealed the missing ingredient: lemon juice! Apparently, a squeeze of lemon not only brightens the flavor but also prevents the fritters from turning pink during frying.
This revelation was a game-changer! Now, with my sister-in-law’s secret weapon in hand, I’m excited to share this recipe for Sweet Frituras with Malanga and Yuca.
This recipe features the vibrant duo of malanga and yuca, two root vegetables native to the Americas. Malanga offers a slightly sweet and earthy flavor with a creamy texture when cooked. Yuca, also known as cassava, adds a touch of starchy goodness and a subtle sweetness. Together, they create the perfect base for our sweet frituras.
Ingredients for Sweet Frituras
- Malanga – Look for malanga in the produce section of the grocery store. They are more commonly found in Latin and International supermarkets. They should be firm to the touch and white on the inside.
- Yuca – Yuca or cassava, is also found in the produce section of the grocery store. They will be white on the inside and very hard because of the outer layer.
- Flour – This helps create a fluffy dough-like texture similar to a donut.
- Eggs – Along with creating structure they will help bind the other ingredients together.
- Salt – Adds flavor and balance.
- Sugar – Traditionally no sugar is used in making Cuban Sweet Frituras, however after experimenting I found a 1/4 cup of sugar made the frituras even more delectable. You can absolutely leave it out if you are watching your sugar intake.
- Lemon juice – Keeps the batter from turning a rosy hue and adds brightness to the frituras.
- Oil – You can use any oil suitable for frying.
The preparation is delightfully simple. We’ll blend or grate both the malanga and yuca, creating a fluffy and versatile base for our fritters. A touch of flour helps bind the mixture, while a sprinkle of salt enhances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Step-By Step Instructions
1. Prepare the malanga and yuca. Peel the malanga and yuca. Blend or grate them until smooth.
2. Make the fritura dough. Add in 2 eggs and mix thoroughly. Sift in the flour. Stir in the salt and optional sugar.
3. Heat oil. Heat enough oil for frying to 350*.
4. Fry the frituras. Drop the batter into the oil by the spoonfuls. Fry for 2-4 minutes until golden on the outside and cooked through. Fry in batches.
5. Drain the frituras. When they are done drain the frituras on a wire rack or paper towels. Serve them while hot with the syrup.
But wait, there’s more! We’re taking these frituras a step further with three delightful dipping options: a classic simple syrup, a cinnamon-infused simple syrup and a more exotic star anise-infused simple syrup.
What are simple syrups? These are incredibly versatile flavoring agents made with just two ingredients: sugar and water. By simmering sugar with water and adding spices like cinnamon or star anise, we create a fragrant syrup perfect for drizzling over desserts, cocktails, or even pancakes and of course these delicious frituras.
Here’s a quick breakdown of why this recipe is a win for your sweet tooth and your quest for satisfying midday munchie:
- Unique Flavor Combination: Malanga and yuca offer a delightful textural contrast, while the touch of sugar enhances their natural sweetness.
- Simple Yet Versatile: Just a few basic ingredients come together to create a delicious and unique snack/dessert.
- Double the Dipping Fun: The cinnamon and star anise simple syrups provide two distinct flavor profiles, catering to different palates.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These sweet frituras are a crowd-pleaser, perfect as an afternoon snack, a delightful after-dinner treat, or even a fun addition to a potluck.
So, are you ready to embark on a sweet and tropical adventure? Let’s get started on making these irresistible Sweet Frituras with Malanga and Yuca!
Sharing is Fun……below is a Pinterest ready photo!
Sweet Frituras
Description
Delightful bites of malanga and yuca, transformed into golden, crunchy fritters and elevated with a simple sweet glaze.
Ingredients
Frituras
Simple Syrup
Cinnamon Syrup
Anise Syrup
Sweet Fritura Instructions
Prepare the Malanga and Yuca
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Peel the malanga and the yuca. Keep the peeled malanga and yuca in a bowl of cold water to keep them from turning brown.
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Grate or blend the malanga and yuca. Next divide them into 2 (or more if needed) manageable portions before blending. Add an egg and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to each portion while blending for a consistent texture.
Using a Nutribullet will give the frituras a smooth texture. If using a Nutribullet you will also have to divide the manlanga and yuca into more portions. Using a blender and grating will give the frituras more texture. If grating add in the eggs and the lemon juice after all of the malanga and yuca have been grated in a large bowl. They are delicious no matter which method you choose. -
Combine sifted flour and salt with the malanga/yuca mixture using a spatula.Sift the flour and the salt. Using a spatula fold in the sifted flour and salt into the malanga/yuca mixture. *If adding sugar for an extra sweet flavor fold it in now.
Let it sit to develop while making the syrup/s.
If adding sugar for an extra sweet flavor fold it in after adding in the flour.
Simple Syrup Instuctions
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In a medium saucepan, gently heat water and sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to thicken, 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a heat-safe container.
Cinnamon Syrup Instructions
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In a medium saucepan, gently heat water, sugar and the cinnamon stick over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to thicken, 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat. Let cool slightly and remove the cinnamon stick before transferring to a heat-safe container.
Anise Syrup Instructions
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In a medium saucepan, gently heat water, sugar and the star anise over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to thicken, 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat. Let cool slightly and remove the star anise before transferring to a heat-safe container.
Frying the Frituras Instructions
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Fill a large pot with enough oil to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F. Drop fritura batter into the oil by spoonfuls.
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Cook the frituras for 2-4 minutes per side, turning gently every minute, until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. The interior should be soft and tender.
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Drain the cooked frituras on a paper towel or wire rack and let cool slightly. Drizzle the syrup on top or dip the frituras into the syrup. They are best served immediately.
If you make all 3 syrups for variety or a party serve the syrup in little cups for dipping.
