Panamanian Fried Bread I

Panamanian Fried Bread I Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Panama

Region / culture: Panama | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Panamanian Fried Bread, also known as "Tortillas Fritas," is a popular dish in Panama that is enjoyed as a snack or side dish. These delicious fried bread patties are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

History

The recipe for Panamanian Fried Bread has been passed down through generations in Panama. It is a traditional dish that is often made for special occasions and celebrations. The simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a favorite among Panamanians of all ages.

Ingredients

1.75 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp shortening
0.5 cup water
oil

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a large pot.
In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add the shortening to the flour mixture and mix well.
Gradually add water to the mixture, continuing to mix until a firm dough forms.
Cover the dough and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Take medium-sized pieces of dough and shape them into patties, about 0.25 inch thick.
Heat oil in a pan and fry the patties for approximately 0.67 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove the patties from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
Sprinkle the patties with honey and serve them hot.

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture for a hint of spice.
Substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a healthier alternative.
Serve the fried bread patties with a side of guava jelly or cheese for a sweet and savory combination.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the bread patties to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.

- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying the patties, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy bread.

- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried patties from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Panamanian Fried Bread can be served as a snack with honey drizzled on top, or as a side dish with savory dishes such as stews or grilled meats.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the bread patties in hot oil ensures that they become crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside.

Ingredient Substitutions

Vegetable oil can be used in place of shortening.

- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Panamanian Fried Bread can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the fried bread patties on a platter with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Panamanian Fried Bread pairs well with savory dishes such as beef stew, chicken curry, or grilled fish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Panamanian Fried Bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the bread patties in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Panamanian Fried Bread contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Panamanian Fried Bread contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Panamanian Fried Bread contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Panamanian Fried Bread contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Panamanian Fried Bread is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Panamanian Fried Bread contains gluten from the all-purpose flour.

Summary

Panamanian Fried Bread is a delicious snack or side dish that is relatively low in calories and fats. It is a good source of carbohydrates and can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Panamanian Fried Bread is a simple and delicious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a snack or side dish, these crispy bread patties are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a hot and humid day in Panama, and I was visiting a small village where the locals were known for their delicious fried bread. As soon as I caught a whiff of the tantalizing aroma wafting through the air, I knew I had to learn the secret to making this delectable treat.

I approached an elderly woman who was busy kneading dough in a large wooden bowl. Her hands moved with practiced precision, and I watched in awe as she shaped the dough into perfect rounds before dropping them into a sizzling pan of hot oil. The bread turned a golden brown color, and my mouth watered in anticipation.

After introducing myself and explaining my interest in learning the recipe, the woman smiled warmly and invited me to join her in the kitchen. She explained that the key to making the perfect Panamanian fried bread was in the ingredients – simple yet essential: flour, water, salt, and a touch of sugar.

As we worked together, she shared stories of her own grandmother who had passed down the recipe through generations. She spoke of the importance of tradition and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. I listened intently, absorbing every detail and savoring the connection we were forging through our shared love of cooking.

After the bread had finished frying to a crispy perfection, we sat down to enjoy our creation. The warm, fluffy texture melted in my mouth, and I savored the subtle sweetness that lingered on my tongue. I knew in that moment that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have honed my skills and perfected the art of making Panamanian fried bread. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, delighting in their smiles of satisfaction as they bite into a warm, freshly fried piece. Each time I make this dish, I am transported back to that small village in Panama, where I first learned the magic of combining simple ingredients to create something truly special.

As the years have passed, I have added my own twist to the traditional recipe, experimenting with different fillings and toppings to create new and exciting variations. From savory cheese-filled bread to sweet cinnamon sugar dusted treats, the possibilities are endless. But no matter how many times I reinvent this dish, the memories of that first encounter with the elderly woman in the village kitchen will always hold a special place in my heart.

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, it is comforting to know that some things remain unchanged – like the joy of sharing a homemade meal with loved ones. The Panamanian fried bread recipe that I learned that day has become more than just a dish – it is a symbol of tradition, connection, and the power of food to bring people together. And for that, I am eternally grateful.