Colombian Palitos de Queso (Tequeños Venezolanos)

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1. 1Step 1: If using string cheese, remove the wrappers and place them on a baking sheet or plate. Freeze for 20–30 minutes before assembling. If using a block of cheese, cut it into 12 sticks about 4–5 inches (10-13 cm) long and ¾ inch (2 cm) thick.
2. 2Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Add the egg, cold butter, and 6 tablespoons of milk or water. Mix with your hands until a dough forms. If the dough feels dry or crumbly, add more water or milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it comes together.
3. 3Step 3: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 3–5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place it back in the bowl, cover, and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. 4Step 4: Roll the dough into a 10 x 13-inch (25 x 33 cm) rectangle. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut it into 12 long strips, each about ¾ inch (2 cm) wide.
5. 5Step 5: Lightly flatten each strip of dough with a rolling pin until thin. Starting at one end of a cheese stick, wrap the dough diagonally from end to end. Then, wrap it around the cheese in a spiral pattern, slightly overlapping the dough as you go to completely cover the cheese. Pinch the ends closed and gently roll the cheese stick between your hands to seal any seams.
6. 6Step 6: Pour enough oil into a large skillet or deep pan to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). If you don't have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
7. 7Step 7: Carefully fry the cheese sticks in batches of 3–4, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2 minutes for fresh cheese sticks or 4 minutes if frying from frozen.
8. 8Step 8: Transfer the fried cheese sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately while warm and crispy with your favorite dipping sauce.