A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mexican Borrachitos
Mexican Borrachitos, also known as "little drunk men," are a delicious treat filled with sweetness and a hint of alcohol. These traditional Mexican candies, made with sweetened dough and typically infused with flavors like tequila or rum, are a favorite at festivities and celebrations. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own delightful Borrachitos at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- ½ cup of butter, softened
- 1 cup of sugar
- ½ cup of milk
- ½ cup of tequila or rum
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Optional: food coloring for visual appeal
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add in the milk, tequila (or rum), and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined.
Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms. You can add a few drops of food coloring at this stage if you wish to have vibrant Borrachitos.
Step 2: Shaping the Borrachitos
Once the dough is ready, take small portions and roll them into cylindrical shapes approximately 1 inch thick. Ensure the shapes are uniform for even cooking. Place the cylinders on a floured surface to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cooking the Borrachitos
In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully drop the shaped Borrachitos into the oil, frying them until golden brown on all sides. This process should take about 4–5 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to maintain a consistent temperature.
Step 4: Soaking the Borrachitos
After frying, remove the Borrachitos from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. While they are still warm, immerse them in a mixture of sugar and a couple of tablespoons of tequila (or rum) to soak up the alcoholic flavor. Make sure each piece is well-coated, allowing the flavor to seep in.
Step 5: Dusting and Serving
Once they have soaked, roll the Borrachitos in powdered sugar to give them a sweet touch and a festive appearance. Place them on a serving platter and let them cool completely before serving.
Tips for the Best Borrachitos
- Use high-quality tequila or rum for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different flavors by adding ingredients like cinnamon or coconut to the dough.
- Store Borrachitos in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.
Now that you have the steps to create authentic Mexican Borrachitos, enjoy these delightful treats during festive occasions or anytime you crave a sweet, boozy snack!