Tawa-Tawas
Tawa-Tawas Recipe: Authentic Bolivian Cuisine
Introduction
Tawa-Tawas are a traditional Filipino snack that are crispy, sweet, and absolutely delicious. These fried dough treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are often enjoyed with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
History
Tawa-Tawas have been a popular snack in the Philippines for generations. They are often made during special occasions and celebrations, as well as enjoyed as an everyday treat. The name "Tawa-Tawa" comes from the Filipino word "tawa," which means to laugh or giggle, reflecting the joy and happiness that these tasty treats bring to those who enjoy them.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- In a large bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the butter and mix well.
- Add the eggs. Then gradually add water or milk, mixing thoroughly until a smooth dough is formed.
- Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead it. Allow it to rest for ten minutes, covered with a dish cloth or towel.
- On the floured surface, place half of the dough and roll it out until it becomes very thin, about a tenth of an inch. Cut the dough into small rhombus-shaped pieces, each measuring 5.5 inches wide. Cover them with a cloth. Repeat the process with the remaining half of the dough.
- In a large pan, heat oil over high temperature. Fry several pieces at a time. Once they are golden on one side, flip them over and fry until golden on the other side as well.
- Remove the fried pieces from the pan, drain them, and place them on a paper sheet to absorb excess oil. Finally, transfer them to a tray and pour honey over them.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar on top for extra flavor.
- Drizzle chocolate syrup over the Tawa-Tawas for a decadent twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to roll out the dough very thin to achieve a crispy texture.
- Fry the Tawa-Tawas in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
- Drain the fried pieces on a paper sheet to remove excess oil before serving.
- Pour the honey over the Tawa-Tawas while they are still warm to allow it to soak in and enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy Tawa-Tawas with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack.
Cooking Techniques
Frying
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Replace cane honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dough for Tawa-Tawas ahead of time and fry them just before serving for a fresh and crispy texture.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the Tawa-Tawas on a platter and drizzle honey over the top for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Tawa-Tawas with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Tawa-Tawas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to crisp them up before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Tawa-Tawas contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Tawa-Tawas contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Tawa-Tawas contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Tawa-Tawas contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Tawa-Tawas are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
Tawa-Tawas contain gluten, dairy, and eggs.
Summary
Tawa-Tawas are a delicious treat that are moderately high in carbohydrates and fats, making them a satisfying snack option.
Summary
Tawa-Tawas are a delightful Filipino snack that are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. Enjoy these crispy treats with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious snack or dessert.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Tawa-Tawas. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her tiny village in the Philippines. We had spent the morning exploring the bustling market, picking out fresh ingredients for our lunch. As we made our way back to Maria's house, she suddenly stopped in front of a small roadside stall.
"Come, come," she beckoned to me excitedly. "You must try these Tawa-Tawas. They are a traditional dish here, and they are absolutely delicious."
I followed Maria to the stall, where a kind elderly woman was cooking up a storm on a large flat pan. She greeted us warmly and offered us a taste of her famous Tawa-Tawas. I took a bite, and my taste buds were instantly overwhelmed with the flavors of garlic, onions, tomatoes, and tender chunks of marinated meat. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.
Maria and I spent the rest of the day learning the secrets of the Tawa-Tawa recipe from the elderly woman. She shared with us the importance of marinating the meat in a special blend of spices, the technique of cooking it on a hot griddle until it was perfectly charred and tender, and the secret ingredient that gave the dish its signature flavor.
As I watched the elderly woman expertly flip the meat on the hot griddle, I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. I begged her to teach me, and with a twinkle in her eye, she agreed.
Over the next few days, I spent every spare moment in the kitchen with the elderly woman, learning the intricacies of the Tawa-Tawas recipe. She taught me how to finely chop the garlic and onions, how to marinate the meat just right, and how to cook it on the griddle until it was perfectly cooked. With each lesson, I could feel my confidence growing, and I knew that soon I would be able to recreate this delicious dish on my own.
Finally, the day came when the elderly woman declared that I was ready to make Tawa-Tawas on my own. Maria and I gathered the ingredients, and I set to work in the kitchen, following the recipe step by step. As the meat sizzled on the griddle and the aroma of the spices filled the air, I knew that I had done it. I had successfully made Tawa-Tawas, just like the elderly woman had taught me.
When we sat down to eat, Maria and I savored every bite of the Tawa-Tawas. The flavors were just as I remembered from that hot summer day in Maria's village, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had mastered this traditional recipe. From that day on, Tawa-Tawas became a staple in my cooking repertoire, a dish that I would make for my family and friends, passing on the recipe that I had learned from the kind elderly woman in the Philippines.
As I sit here now, reflecting on that unforgettable experience, I am filled with gratitude for the chance to learn such a special recipe. The Tawa-Tawas will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the time I spent with Maria and the elderly woman, learning the art of traditional Filipino cooking. And as I continue to experiment with new recipes and techniques in the kitchen, I know that the lessons I learned that day will always guide me in my culinary adventures.