Churros, the beloved golden-fried pastries, have a history as rich and flavorful as their taste. Although we often associate them with Mexican food, churros actually originated in Spain. They are just one of many foods the Spanish shared with the New World that then became inseparable from Mexican cuisine.
Spicy and savory dishes may be the main event of Mexican food, but there are sweet treats, too! Let’s take a look at a favorite dessert, the churro.
Uncertain Spanish Origins
Although we know they came from Spain, the exact birthplace of churros is disputed, with some claiming it’s the Andalusian region, while others attribute it to Madrid. Spanish shepherds likely made the earliest churros in the 14th century. They fried dough strips over an open fire to create a quick and satisfying snack. Over time, churros became popular in Spain and spread to other parts of Europe and eventually to the Americas.
Churros Around the World
Today, churros are enjoyed in many countries and come in various forms. In Spain, they’re often served for breakfast or as a snack, dipped in hot chocolate or café con leche. In Mexico and Latin America, churros are often filled with sweet fillings, such as chocolate or cajeta (a caramel sauce made from goat’s milk).
Popular Variations
There’s more than one way to eat a churro! Here are some common serving suggestions and popular variations of churros:
- Traditional Spanish Churros: These are the classic churros made from a simple dough of flour, water, salt, and sugar. They’re fried until golden brown and served with a hot chocolate dipping sauce.
- Churros Rellenos: These churros are filled with a sweet filling, such as chocolate, cajeta, or dulce de leche. They’re often served with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Churros con Helado: This is a popular dessert in Spain, where churros are served with a scoop of ice cream. The cold ice cream perfectly complements the warm, crispy churros.
- Churros con Chocolate: This is another popular Spanish dessert. Churros are served with a thick, hot chocolate sauce, often flavored with cinnamon or vanilla.
Enjoy Mexican Food at Los Primos!
Leave room for dessert the next time you visit Los Primos! A warm, sweet churro is the perfect way to finish a flavorful meal of authentic Mexican food.