ColombianSnack

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Deditos de Queso, meaning "little cheese fingers," are a popular Colombian snack that combines stretchy mozzarella with crumbled coastal cheese, all wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. These delightful cheese sticks are a staple at Colombian gatherings, street food stalls, and home kitchens. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the molten cheese interior makes them irresistible. Traditionally served with ají or hogao sauce for dipping, deditos de queso represent the Colombian love for cheese-based snacks. The recipe is simple yet requires attention to proper breading technique to achieve that perfect golden crust that seals in all the cheesy goodness. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack, party appetizer, or casual bite, these cheese fingers bring joy to every occasion.

Instructions

step by step

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In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese and feta cheese, mixing well until evenly distributed. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Divide the cheese mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a finger-sized log, about 3 inches long and 3/4 inch thick.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with a pinch of paprika.
Roll each cheese finger first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure breadcrumbs adhere well.
For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating process for a double layer.
Place breaded cheese fingers on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help the coating set.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be about 2 inches deep.
Carefully add 3-4 cheese fingers at a time to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd.
Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and melted, with your favorite dipping sauce.

Deditos de Queso

4.4 (15)

Crispy golden cheese fingers filled with melted mozzarella and salty coastal cheese, breaded and fried to perfection. A beloved Colombian snack enjoyed throughout the country at any time of day.

easy

35 min

6 servings

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

2 cups Cheese Mozzarella, shredded
1 cups Cheese Feta, crumbled

Breading

2 pieces Eggs, beaten
1 cups Flour
2 cups Breadcrumbs

Cooking

4 cups Vegetable Oil, for frying

Seasoning

1 teaspoons Salt
1/2 teaspoons Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoons Paprika

Chef Tips

expert advice

•The key to perfect deditos de queso is keeping the cheese cold before frying - this prevents it from melting out of the breading.

•The double breading technique creates an extra-thick crust that better contains the melted cheese.

•Make sure your oil is at the correct temperature; too hot and the outside burns before the cheese melts, too cool and they become greasy.

•You can prepare these ahead and freeze them uncooked for up to 1 month - fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to cooking time.

Variations & Substitutions

make it your own

•If you cannot find feta cheese, substitute with queso costeño or farmer cheese.

•For a spicier version, add finely minced jalapeño to the cheese mixture.

Serving & Pairings

what goes well

•Serve with Colombian ají, marinara sauce, or garlic aioli for dipping.

Storage & Reheating

keeping it fresh

Storage

Store leftover deditos de queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Uncooked breaded cheese fingers can be frozen for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-6 minutes. Avoid microwaving as this will make the coating soggy.