Churros: From 15th-century honey-coated sticks to a global cafe ritual
Churros are a traditional Spanish treat: thin sticks of choux dough fried to a crisp, then enjoyed with chocolate, coffee, or fruit sauces. The story begins in the 15th century, when they were known as churros de miel — thin strips fried in oil and served with honey. Their rise to popularity came in the 19th century, when churros became an essential part of Spain's national cuisine, often served with hot chocolate or coffee and with sweet sauces such as chocolate, caramel, or fruit jam. Today, this simple pastry is beloved for its satisfying crunch and soft interior, and for its portability, which makes it a breakfast, snack, or dessert anywhere.
In This Article:
- History: From 15th-century honey churros to a national favorite in the 19th century
- Features: The travel-ready shape with a crisp crust and soft center
- Preparation: The single principle behind all methods — choux dough fried to a golden color
- Conclusion: A dessert that is not only delicious, but also beautiful
History: From 15th-century honey churros to a national favorite in the 19th century
First mentions date back to the 15th century, when churros de miel described thin strips of dough fried in oil and served with honey. The pastry's popularity truly grew in the 19th century, when churros became a fixture of Spain's national cuisine. At that time, churros were commonly paired with hot chocolate or coffee, and with a variety of sweet sauces such as chocolate, caramel, or fruit jam. The tale of churros reflects how a simple fried dough traveled across generations to become a cultural icon.
Features: The travel-ready shape with a crisp crust and soft center
The shape of churros is its main distinction: thin sticks that can be straight or spiral, making them easy to store and transport. They boast a crisp outer crust and a soft, almost fluffy interior, which makes them perfect for breakfast or a snack. This combination helps explain why churros spread beyond kitchens to cafes and fairs around the world.
Preparation: The single principle behind all methods — choux dough fried to a golden color
All methods share a single principle: the dough is choux and fried to a golden color. Step 1: Make the choux dough by mixing flour, water, eggs, and salt, then heat the mixture over a water bath until it thickens. Step 2: Cool the dough and roll it into thin strips, cutting them to the desired length. Step 3: Fry the strips in plenty of oil until golden brown, taking care not to overcook them. Step 4: Serve with powdered sugar or a sweet sauce.
Conclusion: A dessert that is not only delicious, but also beautiful
Churros are not only delicious but also a visually appealing dessert that can adorn any table. Don’t be afraid to experiment with sauces and fillings to make your churros even more original and flavorful. Enjoy your churros!
