Venezuelan Bollitos Recipe (Soft, Comforting & Easy Corn Dumplings)
- Sarah Smith
- May 10
- 3 min read
Venezuelan Bollitos are soft, comforting corn dumplings made from pre-cooked corn flour and gently simmered until tender. Simple, inexpensive, and naturally gluten-free, they're a beloved staple in Venezuelan home cooking and are often served alongside soups, stews, shredded beef, or enjoyed warm with butter and cheese.
These traditional corn dumplings pair beautifully with comforting dishes like Venezuelan Sancocho, Caraotas Negras, and Venezuelan Carne Mechada. If you love authentic Venezuelan comfort food, you may also enjoy homemade Arepas, Cachapas, and Guasacaca Sauce.
Quick Answer
Venezuelan bollitos are soft boiled corn dumplings made with pre-cooked corn flour, warm water, and a little butter or oil. They're commonly served with soups, stews, shredded meats, or simply topped with butter and cheese for a comforting side dish.
Why You’ll Love This
Soft and tender texture
Simple pantry ingredients
Authentic Venezuelan comfort food
Perfect with soups and stews
Easy to customize with cheese or herbs
Naturally gluten-free
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 10–12 bollitos
Cuisine: Venezuelan
Difficulty: Easy
Nutrition Information
(Per Serving Approx.)
Calories: 170
Protein: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 4 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 280 mg
Ingredients
For the Dough
3 cups pre-cooked white or yellow corn flour (Harina PAN) (360 g)
3 1/2 cups warm water (840 ml)
2 tbsp butter or vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar (optional, for slightly sweeter bollitos)
Optional Add-Ins
1/2 cup shredded queso blanco or mozzarella (60 g)
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
1 tbsp annatto oil for color and flavor
Instructions
1. Prepare the Liquid
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, butter or oil, salt, and sugar if using. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add the Corn Flour
Gradually add the pre-cooked corn flour while mixing with your hands or a spoon until a soft dough forms.
3. Rest the Dough
Allow the dough to rest for 5 minutes.
4. Add Cheese or Herbs
Fold in optional ingredients.
5. Shape the Bollitos
Roll into smooth oval dumplings.
6. Bring Water to a Simmer
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
7. Cook the Bollitos
Carefully lower the bollitos into the simmering water and cook for 20–25 minutes until firm, tender, and slightly floating near the surface.
8. Serve
Remove with a slotted spoon and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
Harina PAN gives the most authentic texture.
Wet hands prevent sticking.
Chicken broth can replace water.
Stuff cheese inside for cheese-filled bollitos.
Annatto oil adds color and flavor.
Yellow corn flour produces a deeper color.
Avoid overworking the dough.
Troubleshooting
Why are my bollitos falling apart?
The dough may be too wet. Add a little more corn flour and shape gently.
Why are my bollitos dense?
Too much flour or overmixing can make them heavy.
Why are they cracking?
The dough may be too dry. Add a tablespoon or two of warm water.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Store leftover bollitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in simmering water, the microwave, or a covered skillet with a splash of water.
Cooked bollitos can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in simmering water or the microwave until warmed through.
More Venezuelan Recipes to Try
These traditional Venezuelan favorites are perfect companions to homemade bollitos and bring even more comforting flavors to your family table.
FAQ
What are Venezuelan bollitos made of?
Bollitos are made from pre-cooked corn flour, water, salt, and fat like butter or oil.
Are bollitos the same as arepas?
No. Bollitos are boiled corn dumplings, while arepas are grilled, baked, or pan-fried corn cakes.
Can I stuff bollitos?
Yes. Cheese-stuffed bollitos are very popular and delicious.
What does “bollitos” mean?
“Bollitos” roughly translates to “little buns” or “little dumplings” in Spanish.
Can I freeze bollitos?
Yes. Cooked bollitos freeze well for up to 2 months.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. They reheat beautifully and are excellent for meal prep.
Can I use yellow corn flour?
Yes. White and yellow Harina PAN both work well.
What do Venezuelan bollitos taste like?
Bollitos have a mild corn flavor and a soft, tender texture. They pair beautifully with soups, stews, butter, cheese, and savory Venezuelan dishes.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Venezuelan Bollitos are one of the simplest and most comforting recipes in Venezuelan cooking. Soft, warm, and wonderfully versatile, these tender corn dumplings pair beautifully with soups, stews, shredded meats, and everyday family meals. Whether served with butter and cheese or alongside a hearty bowl of sancocho, they're a timeless comfort food that brings authentic Venezuelan flavor to the table.
If you enjoy traditional Venezuelan recipes, be sure to explore the World Flavors collection for more cozy homemade favorites from around the globe.
