Churros: Fried Pastry with Chocolate

Churros is a type of fried dough that is served with a cup of thick hot chocolate, into which the churros are dipped. In Spain, they are especially popular in the morning or as a late-night snack.

This Spanish delicacy is prepared from choux pastry, which is piped through a star-shaped nozzle into hot oil and then fried until golden brown. The dough is usually made from flour, water, sugar, and salt, but some recipes may contain eggs, milk, or butter. After frying, the churros are allowed to drain to remove excess oil, optionally coated with sugar and cinnamon, and are ready to eat. Traditionally, they are served with a cup of hot chocolate for dipping, but some people prefer to enjoy them plain or with dulce de leche, a sweet sauce similar to caramel.

Churros, fried pastry with chocolate
Churros, fried pastry with chocolate

The origin of churros is debated, but they were likely brought to Spain by Portuguese explorers who discovered similar fried pastries in China. According to another story, Spanish shepherds created churros as a quick and easy breakfast that could be prepared on an open fire. Today, churros are among the most famous Spanish dishes, along with tapas and paella.

I had churros at the renowned Madrid chocolatería San Ginés. This chocolate café was founded in 1894 and is open 24 hours a day. One serving of freshly prepared churros with a cup of thick chocolate costs here 4.50 EUR.

Bon appetit!

More information can be obtained by clicking on the map link: