Colombian
⭐ Highly Rated
25 minmedium
ColombianAppetizer
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsAborrajados are one of Colombia's most cherished comfort foods, originating from the Valle del Cauca region. These delightful fritters feature caramelized ripe plantains filled with soft white cheese, enveloped in a delicate wheat flour batter, and fried until the exterior is wonderfully crispy while the inside remains warm and melty. The contrast between the natural sweetness of the plantain and the salty richness of the cheese creates an irresistible flavor combination that has made this dish a favorite across Colombia. Traditionally served as an appetizer or afternoon snack, aborrajados are enjoyed at family gatherings, street food stalls, and restaurants throughout the country. The key to perfect aborrajados lies in selecting plantains that are perfectly ripe with black spots on the peel, ensuring maximum sweetness, and using a fresh white cheese that melts beautifully without becoming too runny.
Instructions
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Select ripe plantains with black-spotted yellow peels. Peel and cut each plantain lengthwise into thin slices about 1/4 inch thick. You should get 2-3 slices per plantain.
Cut the mozzarella cheese into rectangular strips approximately 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
Take one plantain slice and place a cheese strip in the center. Cover with another plantain slice to create a sandwich, pressing gently to seal the edges.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until you have a smooth batter with the consistency of pancake batter. If too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be about 1 inch deep for proper frying.
Carefully dip each plantain-cheese sandwich into the batter, ensuring it's completely coated on all sides.
Gently place the battered aborrajados into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately while hot and the cheese is still melted.
Aborrajados de Maduro
4.5 (21)
Sweet ripe plantains wrapped in gooey melted cheese, then coated in a light batter and fried to golden perfection. A beloved Colombian street food that combines sweet and savory flavors in every crispy bite.
medium
35 min
6 servings
Ingredients
0 of 7 checked
Main Ingredients
- 3 pieces plantain, very ripe with black spots, peeled and sliced lengthwise
- 1 1/2 cups cheese-mozzarella, cut into strips
Batter
- 1 cups flour, all-purpose
- 2 pieces eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoons salt
For Frying
- 2 cups vegetable-oil
Chef Tips
expert advice•For the best results, use plantains that are very ripe but still firm enough to slice without falling apart.
•The ideal plantain will have a yellow peel with plenty of black spots.
•If your plantains are too green, let them ripen at room temperature for several days.
•You can substitute mozzarella with queso blanco, queso fresco, or even a mild white cheddar.
•For a lighter version, you can bake these at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, though they won't achieve the same crispy exterior.
•Some Colombian cooks add a teaspoon of sugar to the batter for extra sweetness.
•Serve with a side of guava paste or sprinkle with powdered sugar for an even more indulgent treat.
•These are best enjoyed fresh and hot, as the cheese is at its meltiest and the coating is at its crispiest.
