Discover the delightful taste of Latin America with our Vegetarian Corn Pudding, or Pastel de Choclo Vegetariano! This creamy, cheesy dish is not only a feast for the senses but also an easy way to impress your family and friends. Imagine a warm, golden-brown pudding that melts in your mouth, bursting with the sweet flavor of corn and the richness of cheese. Perfect for gatherings or as a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to elevate your culinary repertoire? Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Latin American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your corn pudding cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of corn kernels, 1 cup of milk, and 1/4 cup of melted butter. Use a fork or a whisk to mix the ingredients together until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the 1/2 cup of cornmeal, 1 tsp of baking powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the dry ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Fold in the 1/4 cup of grated cheese into the batter, allowing it to distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
- Grease a baking dish with a little extra melted butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the corn pudding mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once cooked, remove the corn pudding from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to cut into portions.
- Serve warm as a side dish or a main vegetarian dish, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Latin American classic!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Corn: If possible, use fresh corn kernels for the best flavor. You can also use frozen corn, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
- Experiment with Cheese: While the recipe calls for grated cheese, feel free to experiment with different types such as feta, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick!
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, consider folding in diced bell peppers, onions, or even spinach into the mixture.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your pudding as it bakes. If the top is golden brown but the center is still wet, cover it with foil and continue baking until set.
- Serve with a Twist: Elevate your dish by serving it with a fresh salsa or a dollop of sour cream on the side for a refreshing contrast to the rich pudding.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven before serving for a quick and easy meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
