ColombianAppetizer

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Deditos de Guayaba are traditional Colombian pastry treats that combine the sweetness of guava paste with the mild saltiness of fresh cheese, wrapped in a delicate dough and fried to golden perfection. These finger-shaped pastries are popular across Colombia as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or party appetizer. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the warm, gooey filling creates an irresistible texture combination. Traditionally served with coffee or hot chocolate, these pastries represent the perfect balance of sweet and savory that Colombian cuisine is known for. The guava paste, made from the abundant tropical fruit, provides a distinctly Colombian flavor that transports you straight to the streets of Bogotá or Medellín where vendors sell them fresh from their carts.

Instructions

step by step

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In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter and work it into the flour with your fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until dough comes together. Knead briefly until smooth. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
While dough rests, cut guava paste and cheese into thin strips about 3 inches long and 1/4 inch thick.
Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into rectangles approximately 3x4 inches.
Place one strip of guava paste and one strip of cheese in the center of each rectangle. Brush edges with water.
Fold dough over filling lengthwise, pressing edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges decoratively.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Test with a small piece of dough - it should sizzle immediately.
Fry deditos in batches of 4-5, turning once, until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar if desired.

Deditos de Guayaba

4.9 (39)

Crispy fried pastry fingers filled with sweet guava paste and fresh cheese, a beloved Colombian snack perfect for any time of day. Golden and delightful with every bite.

medium

35 min

12 servings

Ingredients

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Dough

2 1/2 cups flour, all-purpose
4 tablespoons butter, cold, cubed
1/2 teaspoons salt

Filling

8 ounces guava, guava paste, sliced thin
1 cups cheese-mozzarella, cut into strips

Frying

4 cups vegetable-oil, for frying

Optional

1 pieces eggs, beaten for egg wash (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice

•For best results, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying - too hot and the pastries will brown before the filling warms, too cool and they will absorb excess oil.

•You can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.

•Fresh queso fresco or mozzarella work well as cheese substitutes.

•If guava paste is too firm, microwave for 10 seconds to soften before cutting.

•These pastries are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven.

•For a variation, try adding a small piece of cream cheese along with the regular cheese for extra creaminess.

•Some Colombian cooks add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for added warmth.