Place butter slices, 2 cups flour, and baking powder in a food processor.
Pulse until butter is mixed in and the flour is crumbly.
Place mixture in a large bowl.
Add egg and water. Mix with a spatula to form a ball. Add water, tablespoon by tablespoon, if needed.
Wrap ball in plastic wrap and place in fridge for 30 minutes.
Take out and roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness, forming a 12 x 12 inch square. Slice into 3/4 inch strips.
Slice cheese into strips that measure 1/2 inch x 1/2 inch x 2 1/2 inches.
Take a strip and wrap it in a spiral around the cheese, covering all the cheese. Pinch dough to seal in cheese.
Heat oil in a large, deep cast iron pan or fryer. When hot (400 degrees), add the dough-wrapped cheese sticks in small batches and fry for three to five minutes, or until golden. Flip halfway through if needed.
Place on paper towel and continue with next batches.
Serve and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Tequeños are from Venezuela and are a popular dish in our city of Doral, Florida, which has many Venezuelan immigrants. Our kids love them, and they are served at parties, get togethers, church potlucks, and as appetizers.