Aborrajados

Name: Aborrajados
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Colombian
Ingredients: 3 ripe plantains (very yellow with black spots); 6 slices mozzarella or white cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; Vegetable oil for frying

⏱ Prep Time 30 minutes

📈 Difficulty Easy

👥 Servings

Aborrajados from the Valle del Cauca region represent a perfect marriage of sweet and savory, showcasing Colombia's love for plantains in their most indulgent form. These golden, crescent-shaped fritters feature ripe plantains that are tender and naturally sweet, generously stuffed with melted mozzarella that creates a luxurious, creamy center. The exterior achieves a perfect crispy texture from the egg batter and oil, while the interior remains pillowy and warm. Traditionally served as a street food snack or afternoon treat, aborrajados are often enjoyed with a cup of Colombian coffee or a refreshing fruit drink. The dish embodies the Colombian philosophy of finding joy in simple pleasures, bringing families together during informal gatherings and bustling markets where vendors call out their wares. These fritters are typically eaten by hand, often wrapped in paper, making them the ideal portable comfort food for Colombia's vibrant street culture.

Nutrition & Info

Protein 17.6g

Carbs 34.8g

Fat 14.0g

Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian

Ingredients

3 ripe plantains (very yellow with black spots)
6 slices mozzarella or white cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1
Peel the ripe plantains and slice them in half lengthwise, then fry them in hot oil over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and softened.
2
Remove the fried plantain halves, let them cool slightly, then place a slice of cheese on one half and sandwich it with the other half, pressing gently.
3
Beat the eggs with flour and salt in a shallow bowl until you have a smooth batter that coats the back of a spoon evenly.
4
Dip each cheese-stuffed plantain sandwich into the egg batter, coating it completely on all sides, letting any excess drip off.
5
Fry the battered plantain sandwiches in hot oil at 350°F (175°C) for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the batter is puffed, golden brown, and crispy.
6
Drain on paper towels and serve immediately while the cheese is still melted and stretchy inside the crispy coating.

💡

Did You Know?

The name 'aborrajados' literally translates to 'little bags' in Spanish, referring to the way the plantain pockets are filled with cheese and sealed before frying, creating a distinctive bag-like shape that's both practical and visually appealing.

The Story Behind Aborrajados

Aborrajados originate from the rural communities of Valle del Cauca, where plantains are abundant and deeply rooted in local cuisine. The dish evolved from traditional preparation methods passed down through generations of Colombian families, representing the region's agricultural heritage and resourceful cooking traditions. Originally created as a way to utilize leftover plantains and cheese, aborrajados became a symbol of Colombian hospitality and the country's ability to transform humble ingredients into extraordinary flavors.