Churros are a type of fried dough pastry originating from Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. They are made from a choux pastry dough, which is piped through a star-shaped nozzle into hot oil and fried until golden and crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and fluffy inside
. Typically, churros are long sticks with ridges formed by the piping bag tip, though they can also be curved or twisted. After frying, they are often sprinkled or rolled in sugar, commonly mixed with cinnamon, giving them a sweet and aromatic coating
. In Spain, churros are traditionally eaten for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, often dipped in hot chocolate or coffee
. The dough mainly consists of flour, water, and salt, with some variations including butter, eggs, or milk depending on the region or recipe
. Churros are widely enjoyed in many countries, including Latin America, the Philippines, and parts of the United States, often sold by street vendors or in specialized shops called churrerías
. The exact origin of churros is unclear, with theories suggesting they may have been inspired by a Chinese fried dough called youtiao, brought to Europe by Portuguese explorers, or invented by Spanish shepherds as a simple fried bread substitute
. In summary, churros are a popular fried dough treat characterized by their ridged shape, crispy exterior, soft interior, and sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, enjoyed as a snack or breakfast item in many cultures.
