Pandequeso: Traditional Colombian Cheese Rings
Pandequeso is a rich, savory pastry (amasijo) wildly popular across Colombia, particularly in the Andean region. There is arguably no better aroma in the world than the smell of these delicious cheese rings fresh out of the oven!
The secret to this 30-minute recipe is the specific ratio of flours. Unlike the pandebono or pandeyuca which rely heavily on cassava, the pandequeso uses a larger base of cornmeal cut with just enough cassava starch to give it structure, enriched with lard and a massive amount of salty cheese.
Pandequeso (Traditional Colombian Cheese Rings)
A classic Colombian bakery staple! Savory rings made from a blend of cornmeal, cassava starch, and plenty of white cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs White cheese or Queso costeño, grated or ground
- 3 lbs Cornmeal Harina de maíz
- 1 lb Cassava starch Almidón de yuca
- 1/4 lb Sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon Lard Manteca
- 4 Eggs
- 4 cups Water
Instructions
- Mix the dry base: The very first step is to combine the cornmeal, the cassava starch, the sugar, and the previously grated (or ground) cheese in a large mixing bowl. Mix all these dry ingredients very well until fully integrated.
- Hydrate and knead: Once the dry ingredients are blended, add the lard, the previously beaten eggs, and exactly half of the water. Knead the mixture vigorously. Gradually add the rest of the water as you knead until you achieve a smooth, homogeneous dough. Let the dough rest for a short while.
- Shape the rings: Take portions of the rested dough and shape them into the traditional pandequesos. They are classically formed into distinct rings (roscas), though they can also be shaped into simple small, round breads.
- Bake: Place the shaped rings onto a previously greased baking sheet or tray. Put them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20 minutes, or until you notice they have turned a beautiful golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, and enjoy that incredible fresh-baked aroma!
You may also be interested
Buñuelos de maíz en almíbar: Colombian Sweet Corn Fritters
Colombian Dumplings o Drop Dumplings
Arepas de fruto del árbol de pan: Colombian Breadfruit Arepas
Bami: Traditional Colombian Island Cassava Flatbread