Cornmeal Sticks(Surullitos De Maiz - Spanish Recipe)
Crispy, golden cornbread sticks with a delightful crunch, perfect as a snack or appetizer, bringing bold corn flavor and satisfying texture suited for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine water and salt in a saucepan; heat to boiling.
- Remove from heat.
- Add cornmeal; mix thoroughly.
- Return to heat and cook over moderate heat until the mixture separates from the bottom and sides of the pan.
- Remove from heat.
- Take the mixture by teaspoonfuls and shape into balls.
- In the palms of your hands, roll the balls to 1/2-inch thickness, shaping them into small cigars.
- Deep fry in oil heated to 375°F until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on absorbent paper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of spices like cayenne or cumin to the cornmeal mixture. If you don't have lard, vegetable oil works well for frying. Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying, as too low will make them soggy, while too hot can burn them. For a twist, try adding cheese to the mixture for cheesy surullitos.
Serving Suggestions
Serve surullitos with a side of Hot Jezebel Sauce for an exciting kick. They pair beautifully with Fresh Cucumber Slices or a light salad to balance the richness. Enjoy them as a snack or appetizer, perfect for gatherings or as a side dish with your favorite main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover surullitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornmeal Sticks(Surullitos De Maiz - Spanish Recipe) contains roughly 93 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make surullitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cornmeal mixture ahead of time and shape the sticks. Store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying. Frying them fresh just before serving will give you the best texture and flavor.
What can I use if I don't have cornmeal?
If you don't have cornmeal, you can substitute it with polenta or finely ground masa harina. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but the flavors will still be delightful.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
To check if the oil is ready for frying, drop a small piece of the cornmeal mixture into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is at the right temperature (375°F). A cooking thermometer can also ensure precise heating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).