Venezuelan Bollitos Recipe (Soft, Comforting & Easy Corn Dumplings)

Venezuelan bollitos are soft cornmeal dumplings made from pre-cooked corn flour and simmered until tender and comforting. They’re simple, cozy, and incredibly versatile—perfect served alongside soups, stews, shredded meats, or enjoyed with butter and cheese for a comforting homemade side dish.

These traditional corn dumplings are especially popular with hearty Venezuelan meals like Sancocho, Caraotas Negras, and Venezuelan Carne Mechada. If you enjoy authentic Latin comfort food, you may also love homemade Arepas, Cachapas, or Venezuelan-style guasacaca sauce. For more cozy homemade meals from around the world, explore the World Flavors collection or browse the Soups & Stews hub for comforting pairings.

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

• 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. In a large bowl, combine warm water, butter, salt, and sugar if using.

2. Slowly add the corn flour while mixing with your hands or a spoon until a soft dough forms.

3. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes so the corn flour fully hydrates.

4. If adding cheese or herbs, gently knead them into the dough.

5. Divide the dough into 10–12 portions and shape into smooth oval dumplings or small logs.

6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.

7. Carefully place the bollitos into the water and reduce to a simmer.

8. Cook for 20–25 minutes until firm and tender. The bollitos will float slightly as they finish cooking.

9. Remove with a slotted spoon and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Add shredded cheese inside the center for stuffed bollitos.

• Use chicken broth instead of water for more flavor.

• Annatto oil gives the dough a beautiful golden color.

• Keep hands lightly wet while shaping to prevent sticking.

• Serve with butter, nata, shredded beef, or soups.

What to Serve With

Bollitos pair beautifully with cozy Venezuelan comfort foods like sancocho, black beans, shredded beef, or pollo guisado. They’re also delicious with garlic butter, queso fresco, or alongside hearty soups and stews for a filling homemade meal.

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.

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.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Venezuelan bollitos are one of the simplest and most comforting traditional recipes you can make. Soft, warm, and satisfying, they pair perfectly with soups, stews, and cozy family-style meals while bringing authentic Venezuelan flavor to your table.