Chipa

Name: Chipa
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Paraguay
Ingredients: Cassava starch (tapioca starch) — 420 g (15 oz); Grated cheese — 150 g (5 oz); Butter or lard, softened — 115 g (4 oz); Eggs — 2; Milk, as needed — 60 ml (2 fl oz); Salt — 1 tsp; Anise seeds — 1 tsp (optional)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Servings

Ingredients

Cassava starch (tapioca starch) — 420 g (15 oz)
Grated cheese — 150 g (5 oz)
Butter or lard, softened — 115 g (4 oz)
Eggs — 2
Milk, as needed — 60 ml (2 fl oz)
Salt — 1 tsp
Anise seeds — 1 tsp (optional)

Method

Combine the cassava starch, grated cheese, butter, salt and anise seeds if using in a bowl.
Add the eggs and mix well, then add just enough milk to bring the mixture together into a soft, slightly sticky dough.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Shape the dough into small rings, balls or rolls.
Place on a baking tray and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.
Serve warm.

Introduction: Small, chewy cassava starch and cheese bread rolls, Paraguay's most iconic and beloved snack, enjoyed at any time of day.

Cultural Background: Chipa is considered one of Paraguay's most treasured foods, deeply tied to Holy Week celebrations though eaten year-round, its distinctive chewy texture coming from cassava starch rather than wheat flour.

Tips: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but hold its shape — adjust milk quantity carefully. Bake until deeply golden for the best flavour and characteristic chewy-crisp texture.

Variations: Shape into the traditional ring form, though balls or rolls work equally well. Add a pinch of ground cumin for a subtly different flavour, a regional variation.

Storage: Store cooled chipa in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat briefly in an oven at 160°C (325°F) for 5–8 minutes to refresh.

FAQs:

Q: Is chipa gluten-free?

A: Yes, as it's made from cassava starch rather than wheat flour, it's naturally gluten-free.

Q: When is chipa traditionally eaten?

A: Especially during Holy Week (Semana Santa), though it's enjoyed as an everyday snack throughout the year.