Sopaipillas are a beloved traditional Chilean snack that can be enjoyed either sweet or savory. These golden-brown fried dough pastries are simple to make and versatile. The basic dough is prepared from flour, water, salt, and oil, and can be customized with pumpkin puree for a sweet treat. Sopaipillas are typically served hot and can be enjoyed plain, with powdered sugar, or drizzled with honey. They are especially popular during Chile’s colder months and at various social gatherings, from family meals to festivals.
Originating from Chile, sopaipillas are deeply rooted in the country’s culinary traditions. Traditionally, these fried pastries are a staple during the chilly, rainy seasons when they provide a comforting and warming snack. They are commonly found at street food stalls and local markets throughout Chile. The use of pumpkin in the dough reflects the availability of local ingredients and adds a distinct flavor to the dish. Over time, sopaipillas have become a symbol of Chilean cuisine, cherished for their simplicity and versatility.
Ingredients
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1/2 tsp salt
3. 1/2 tsp baking powder
4. 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
5. 1/2 cup warm water
6. 1 tbsp vegetable oil
7. Vegetable oil for frying
Method
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and ground cinnamon (if using). Mix well.
- Add the warm water and vegetable oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Roll and Cut:
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use a round cutter or a glass to cut the dough into circles.
3. Fry the Sopaipillas:
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom with a thin layer.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the sopaipillas to the skillet.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Serve:
- Serve the sopaipillas hot, either plain, or with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Notes:
- Sweet Variation: For a sweeter version, use pumpkin puree in place of some of the flour and omit the cinnamon. Serve with powdered sugar or honey.
- Savory Variation: The classic wheat flour version pairs well with pebre, a traditional Chilean salsa made with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice.
Nutrition Value:
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Calories: Approximately 910 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 190 grams
- Protein: 24 grams
- Fat: 2 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Minimal amounts of B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin)
- Minerals: Small amounts of iron and magnesium
- Nutritional Benefit: All-purpose flour provides a source of energy through carbohydrates. It also contributes some protein and essential B vitamins that support metabolism.
2. 1/2 tsp salt
- Calories: 0 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1,150 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: Sodium
- Nutritional Benefit: Salt is primarily used for flavoring and does not provide significant nutritional value but helps in electrolyte balance and fluid regulation.
3. 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Calories: 1 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0.5 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 130 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: Sodium
- Nutritional Benefit: Baking powder helps with leavening and contributes a small amount of sodium.
4. 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Calories: 3 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Provides small amounts of vitamin K
- Minerals: Contains manganese, calcium, and iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Cinnamon offers antioxidant properties and may support metabolic health and blood sugar regulation.
5. 1/2 cup warm water
- Calories: 0 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional Benefit: Water is essential for hydration and is a key component in preparing the dough.
6. 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 14 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of vitamin E
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional Benefit: Vegetable oil provides healthy fats and supports energy production. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant.
7. Vegetable oil for frying
- Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per tablespoon
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 14 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of vitamin E
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional Benefit: Used for frying, vegetable oil contributes additional fat and calories, which helps in achieving the desired crispy texture.
This breakdown helps understand the nutritional contributions of each ingredient used in making sopaipillas.
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