Dish

Aborrajado

Plantain Fritter

Aborrajado is a popular street food in Colombia, and is often served as a snack or breakfast item. The dish is made by slicing ripe plantains lengthwise, stuffing them with cheese, and then dipping them in a batter made from flour, eggs, and milk. The plantains are then fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, and soft and gooey on the inside. Aborrajado is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any time of day.

Cuisine of the Americas› South American cuisine› Colombian cuisine

Appetizer

Origins and history

Aborrajado is a traditional Colombian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated in the city of Buenaventura, on the Pacific coast of Colombia. Today, aborrajado is a popular dish throughout the country, and is often served at festivals and celebrations.

Dietary considerations

Aborrajado is a high-carbohydrate, high-fat dish that is not suitable for people on low-carb or low-fat diets. However, it is a good source of calcium and protein, thanks to the cheese filling. To make the dish healthier, some chefs recommend using low-fat cheese and baking the plantains instead of frying them.

Variations

There are many variations of aborrajado, depending on the region and the chef. Some recipes call for the plantains to be mashed and mixed with cheese, while others use different types of cheese or add other ingredients like ham or bacon. Some chefs also serve aborrajado with a side of rice and beans or a salad.

Presentation and garnishing

To make the perfect aborrajado, it is important to use ripe plantains that are soft and sweet. The cheese filling should be melted and gooey, but not too runny. To prevent the batter from sticking to the frying pan, some chefs recommend using a non-stick pan or adding a little bit of oil to the batter. To make the dish healthier, some chefs also recommend using whole wheat flour and low-fat milk in the batter.

Side-dishes

Aborrajado is often served with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee, which helps to balance out the richness of the dish. It can also be served with a side of salsa or hot sauce, which adds a spicy kick to the sweet and savory flavors of the plantains and cheese.

Drink pairings

Aborrajado is typically served on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Some chefs also add a drizzle of honey or syrup to the dish, which enhances the sweetness of the plantains. To make the dish more visually appealing, some chefs cut the aborrajado into bite-sized pieces and arrange them in a decorative pattern on the plate.