Tequeños are a popular Venezuelan snack enjoyed for their delicious combination of crispy fried dough and gooey melted cheese hereHow to Make Them Step by Step.

The recipe traditionally involves wrapping strips of cheese (usually queso blanco or mozzarella) in a thin layer of dough made from flour, water, salt, and sometimes eggs. These cheese-filled sticks are then deep-fried until golden and served hot and crispy.

The history of tequeños is rooted in Venezuelan culinary culture, with origins traced back to the town of Los Teques in the Miranda state. They are believed to have been created in the 1960s, gaining popularity as a beloved street food and party snack across Venezuela and beyond. Today, tequeños are commonly served at social gatherings, celebrations, and as appetizers in Venezuelan restaurants worldwide, delighting food enthusiasts with their irresistible cheesy goodness and crunchy exterior.

Ingredients:

- 1 package of pre-made empanada dough or puff pastry sheets

- 8 ounces of queso blanco or mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks

- Oil for frying

Method of Preparation:

1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cut the empanada dough or puff pastry into strips, about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long.

3. Place a cheese stick at one end of each strip and roll it up tightly, sealing the edges.

4. Fry the tequeños in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

5. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

6. Serve the tequeños hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

This version keeps the ingredients and method straightforward while still delivering delicious tequeños that are perfect for any occasion.

Nutrition Value:

1. Pre-made Empanada Dough or Puff Pastry Sheets:

  - Calories: Varies based on brand and serving size, typically around 100-150 calories per sheet.

  - Carbohydrates: Usually around 10-15 grams per sheet.

  - Protein: Typically 1-2 grams per sheet.

  - Fat: Varies but can range from 5-10 grams per sheet, mainly from the added fats in the dough.

  - Sodium: Can vary widely; check the nutrition label for specific amounts.

  - Cholesterol: Generally low or negligible in pre-made dough.

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Minimal, with some brands fortifying their dough with small amounts of vitamins like B vitamins.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides carbohydrates for energy and some fat for flavor and texture, but not a significant source of nutrients. Moderation is key due to the calorie and fat content.

2. Queso Blanco or Mozzarella Cheese:

  - Calories: Approximately 70-90 calories per ounce (28 grams) for queso blanco and mozzarella cheese.

  - Carbohydrates: Very low, typically less than 1 gram per ounce.

  - Protein: About 6-7 grams per ounce.

  - Fat: Around 5-7 grams per ounce.

  - Sodium: Can vary but often around 150-200 milligrams per ounce.

  - Cholesterol: Generally around 15-25 milligrams per ounce.

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Good source of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides high-quality protein, calcium for bone health, and essential nutrients like vitamin B12. However, it's also high in saturated fat and sodium, so moderation is important.

3. Oil for Frying:

  - Calories: About 120 calories per tablespoon (14 grams) of oil.

  - Carbohydrates: None.

  - Protein: None.

  - Fat: Approximately 14 grams per tablespoon, mostly unsaturated or saturated depending on the type of oil.

  - Sodium: None unless the oil is salted.

  - Cholesterol: None.

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Varies depending on the type of oil; can provide vitamin E in some cases.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides fats for cooking and flavor but is calorie-dense. Choosing healthier oils like olive oil can add beneficial antioxidants like vitamin E.

These ingredients, while flavorful and convenient, should be used in moderation due to their calorie, fat, and sodium content. Incorporating them into a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables and lean proteins can help maintain a healthy overall nutritional profile.