The Sweet Side of a Savory Treat: Sugar in Tequenos
Many people expect cheese sticks to be purely savory. However, tequenos are different. Unlike mozzarella sticks, which are breaded, tequenos are wrapped in a dough with a hint of sweetness. This sugar is there for specific purposes, not to make the tequeno taste like a dessert. The small amount of sugar works with the salty queso blanco cheese to create a balanced flavor. This balance is what makes the tequeno more than just a snack.
Why a Touch of Sugar Matters
The sugar in tequeno dough enhances the eating experience:
- Enhances Flavor: The saltiness of the cheese is balanced by the sweetness in the dough, resulting in a more appealing taste.
- Promotes Browning: The sugar helps the dough caramelize during cooking. This creates the crispy, golden-brown outside that tequenos are known for.
- Creates Texture: The sugar helps give the dough a flaky texture. This contrasts with the gooey cheese inside, making each bite satisfying.
- Aids Dough Structure: Sugar can interact with yeast and gluten to assist with the structure of the dough. This creates a dough that is easy to roll and wrap around the cheese.
Ingredients in a Traditional Tequeno Recipe
A typical dough recipe includes:
- All-purpose flour
- Unsalted butter
- Egg
- Salt
- Sugar (a tablespoon or two)
- Water
The dough is kneaded, rested, and then cut into strips. These are wrapped around pieces of queso blanco or queso de freir. The tequenos are then fried until they are golden and crispy. The resulting flavor proves that savory and sweet can work well together.
Tequenos Compared to Other Cheese Snacks
While fried cheese is a common concept, the tequeno's slightly sweet dough makes it unique. Here's how it compares to other snacks.
| Feature | Tequenos (Venezuelan) | Mozzarella Sticks (American) | Cheese Samosas (Indian) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough/Wrapper | Slightly sweet, buttery, flaky dough | Breadcrumb coating | Thin, savory pastry sheet |
| Filling | Salty queso blanco with a high melting point | Soft, stretchy mozzarella cheese | Spiced paneer or other cheese |
| Primary Flavor | Balanced salty and semi-sweet profile | Rich, cheesy, savory | Spicy, savory, aromatic |
| Texture | Crispy, flaky dough, soft inside | Crunchy exterior, gooey center | Crispy and triangular |
| Serving | Served hot with dips, like guasacaca | Often with marinara sauce | With chutneys |
Can You Make Tequenos Without Sugar?
Yes, some recipes omit sugar, but the result will be different. The golden-brown color will be less pronounced, and the dough will taste more neutral and buttery. For the best flavor, a bit of sugar is recommended. Venezuelan cuisine also includes sweet versions, like those with guava and cheese, or chocolate fillings.
Conclusion: The Sweet Spot
To answer the question, "Do tequenos have sugar?"—yes, but in small amounts. This addition is key; it balances the saltiness of the cheese and makes the crust crispy and golden-brown. This subtle sweetness sets tequenos apart. It’s a key part of what makes them a popular Venezuelan comfort food. The tequeno’s complex flavor shows how savory and sweet can work together.
