Traditional Paraguayan Chipa Recipe

Ingredients

250 grams of hard cheese, preferably Paraguayan
200 grams of grated Gouda cheese
350 grams of tapioca starch
50 grams of cornstarch
2 tablespoons of baking powder
5 eggs
150 grams of butter, melted
1 pinch of salt

Steps and instructions

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together the hard cheese, Gouda cheese, tapioca starch, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the dry ingredients.
Add the melted butter to the bowl and mix everything until it forms a homogeneous dough.
Take small portions of the dough, make balls with your hands and place them on the lined baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the chipas are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
Baking Sheet - A flat sheet pan used for baking the chipas in the oven.
Parchment Paper - Used to line the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Measuring Scale - To accurately measure the weight of the ingredients.
Grater - To grate the Gouda cheese.
Whisk - To beat the eggs and incorporate air into the dough.
Oven - To bake the chipas until golden brown.

Recipe variations

Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss.
Add herbs or spices to the dough, such as oregano, basil, or paprika, to give it a unique flavor.
Try using different types of flour, such as cassava flour or rice flour, for a gluten-free version.
For a meat-free option, omit the cheese and add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach.
Create a stuffed chipa by adding a filling of your choice, such as ham, cooked bacon, or olives, to the center of the dough before baking.
Add a touch of sweetness by incorporating a small amount of sugar or honey into the dough.
For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapenos or red chili flakes to the dough.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Chipa recipe! Chipa is a delicious cheese bread from Paraguay that is perfect for serving at breakfast or as a snack. These scrumptious little breads are crunchy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside, making them a crowd favorite. This recipe is simple, made with a mix of hard and Gouda cheese, tapioca starch, cornstarch, eggs, and butter. You'll be forming the dough into small balls and baking them until they're golden brown. Get ready to enjoy these divine bites of cheesy goodness!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. However, using a combination of hard cheese (preferably Paraguayan) and grated Gouda cheese will give the best results.
Can I substitute tapioca starch with another flour? Tapioca starch is a key ingredient in chipa and provides its unique texture. It is not recommended to substitute it with another flour as it will affect the final result.
Can I make chipa without using cornstarch? While cornstarch adds some lightness to the chipa, you can omit it if necessary. However, the texture may be slightly different.
Can I use margarine instead of butter? Using butter is recommended for the authentic flavor and texture of chipa. Margarine can be used as a substitute, but it may alter the taste.
How long can I store chipa? Chipa is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them briefly in the oven before serving if desired.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking Sheet - Used to bake the chipas in the oven.
Parchment Paper - Placed on the baking sheet to prevent the chipas from sticking.
Large Bowl - Used to mix together the ingredients for the dough.
Separate Bowl - Used to beat the eggs before adding them to the dough.
Measuring Cups - Used to measure the cheese, starch, and other ingredients accurately.
Mixing Spoon - Used to mix the ingredients together into a dough.

Origin stories

Hailing from the heartland of Paraguay, Chipa holds a special place in the culinary culture of the country. This traditional cheese bread, with its unique texture from tapioca starch, is deeply intertwined with the region's history. It was already being baked in Paraguayan homes long before the arrival of the Spanish conquerors. In a land where wheat was scarce, the indigenous Guarani people ingeniously used the abundant manioc root to produce starch. Combined with the cheese introduced by the Jesuit missions, it resulted in the birth of Chipa. Today, no Paraguayan bus trip is complete without a vendor hopping on board to sell these delightful cheese rolls. A testament to the country's resilience and resourcefulness, Chipa remains a beloved snack that brings a small piece of Paraguay to every bite.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.