Barriguitas de Vieja Recipe: Easy Puerto Rican Dessert

If you’ve ever wandered the vibrant streets of Puerto Rico or enjoyed the warmth of a Caribbean kitchen, you may have encountered the delightful treat known as Barriguitas de Vieja. These “old lady’s bellies” are not only a playful nod in name but also a cherished tradition in Puerto Rican cuisine.

Golden, tender, and lightly crisp on the outside, barriguitas de vieja are sweet fritters made from ripe plantains and pumpkin, spiced with cinnamon and anise, and dusted with sugar. Their comforting aroma is enough to bring back childhood memories for many islanders.

Whether served as a snack, a dessert, or even as a sweet breakfast treat, barriguitas de vieja are incredibly easy to make—requiring just a handful of ingredients and some simple kitchen tools. In this blog post, I’ll guide you step-by-step through this classic recipe, share tips for perfect results, ideas for serving, and even some tasty variations for you to try at home.

Let’s bring a taste of Puerto Rico to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Barriguitas de vieja are a beautiful example of how humble ingredients can transform into something extraordinary. Here’s why you’ll love making and sharing them:

• Simple Ingredients: You probably have everything you need in your pantry.
• Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and cook time—ready in under 30 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore their sweet, comforting flavor.
• Versatile: Enjoy as a snack, dessert, or breakfast. They’re delicious plain or with toppings.
• Authentic Flavor: Experience a true taste of Puerto Rican tradition in every bite.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe for dietary needs or personal taste—see our tips below!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make barriguitas de vieja:

• Ripe plantain: The riper, the better for sweetness.
• Pumpkin: You can use fresh or canned pumpkin puree, or substitute butternut squash.
• Flour: Adjust as needed for batter consistency.
• Sugar: You may reduce slightly if you prefer less sweetness or increase for extra indulgence.
• Egg: For a vegan version, simply omit or use a flax egg.

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Fork or potato masher
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Heavy skillet or frying pan
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels (for draining)
• Plate or tray (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the plantain and pumpkin:
   • Peel the ripe plantain and mash it thoroughly in a large bowl until smooth. For the pumpkin, if using fresh, peel, cube, boil until tender, and mash to yield 1 cup. If using canned puree, measure out 1 cup.
2. Mix the batter:
   • Combine the mashed plantain and pumpkin in a bowl. Add the sugar, egg (if using), flour, cinnamon, anise, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and a thick, sticky batter forms.
3. Test the consistency:
   • The batter should be thick enough to drop from a spoon and hold its shape, but not so stiff that it forms a dough. If too runny, add a bit more flour; if too thick, add a splash of water or milk.
4. Heat the oil:
   • Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into your skillet or frying pan. Heat over medium to medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 350°F/175°C).
5. Fry the fritters:
   • Using two spoons, carefully drop heaping tablespoons of batter into the hot oil, allowing space between each fritter. Fry in batches—do not overcrowd.
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and crisp on both sides.
6. Drain and dust:
   • Remove fritters with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. While still warm, dust generously with sugar or a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
7. Serve and enjoy:
   • Arrange barriguitas de vieja on a plate or tray. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

“The secret to the best barriguitas de vieja is using the ripest plantains you can find—don’t be afraid of those black skins!”

• Vegan version: Omit the egg or use a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water, mixed and rested for 5 minutes).
• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Make them spicier: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
• Add-ins: Stir in a handful of shredded coconut or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
• Air fryer: For a lighter version, shape small patties and air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Serving ideas: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Nutrition Facts

Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 fritters, each serving = 2 fritters):

Note: Nutrition data will vary based on exact ingredients and frying method.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve warm, dusted with cinnamon-sugar and a cup of coffee or tea.
• Dessert: Pair with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of honey or agave.
• Brunch spread: Offer alongside other Caribbean treats like flavorful rice dishes or vegetarian mains.
• Festive platter: Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve as part of a holiday dessert buffet. For more holiday inspiration, check out these Australian Vegetarian Christmas Recipes for Festive Feasts.
• Lunchbox treat: Pack cooled fritters as a sweet surprise in lunchboxes (they’re delicious at room temperature too!).

Conclusion

Barriguitas de vieja are more than just a sweet fritter—they’re a warm hug from Caribbean kitchens, a taste of home, and a celebration of simple, comforting flavors. Whether you’re preparing them for your family, sharing with friends, or exploring Puerto Rican cuisine for the first time, you’ll be amazed at how easily these little fritters come together.

Their irresistible combination of ripe plantain, pumpkin, and cozy spices guarantees they’ll disappear quickly!

Remember, recipes like barriguitas de vieja are meant to be shared and adapted. Don’t hesitate to make them your own by experimenting with different spices, add-ins, or serving styles.

And if you enjoyed this sweet treat, be sure to explore more global vegetarian and vegan recipes—like our Chinese Veg Fried Rice or a refreshing Baby Spinach Salad. Happy cooking and buen provecho!

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