Carantanta
Crispy Corn Crust
Carantanta is a traditional Colombian snack made from the crispy, flavorful corn masa that forms on the bottom of the pot after preparing tamales or other corn-based dishes. It's a delicious way to utilize every bit of the masa, resulting in a unique, crunchy texture.
🧂 Ingredients
- Approximately 1-2 cups (the amount that naturally sticks to the bottom of a pot after cooking tamales or similar corn masa preparations) Corn masa(This is not a measured ingredient but rather the 'scraps' left in the pot. It should be slightly firm and browned, not wet or uncooked.)
- To taste Salt(Optional, depending on how the masa was seasoned initially.)
- 1 tablespoon Oil or butter(Optional, for loosening the masa if it's too dry or sticking excessively.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Corn Masa Base: Ensure you have a layer of cooked corn masa that has adhered to the bottom of a heavy-bottomed pot (like one used for tamales). This layer should be golden brown and slightly crispy, not burnt or raw. If the masa is very dry, you can add a tablespoon of oil or butter to help loosen it.
⏱️ This step assumes the masa is already formed in the pot from a previous preparation. The 'cooking' time here refers to the initial formation of the crust. - 2
Loosen and Scrape the Crust: Using a sturdy spatula or a metal scraper, carefully begin to loosen the crispy corn masa from the bottom of the pot. Work gently to avoid breaking the crust into too many small pieces. Aim to lift off larger, intact sections.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 3
Season and Break Apart: Once the crispy crust is removed from the pot, place it on a clean surface or cutting board. If desired, sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Break the carantanta into bite-sized pieces, similar to how you would break crackers or chips.
⏱️ 3-5 minutes - 4
Serve: Carantanta is best served immediately while it is still warm and crispy. It can be enjoyed on its own as a crunchy snack or served alongside traditional Colombian accompaniments like Hogao (a tomato and onion relish) or fresh cheese.
⏱️ Ready to serve
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to great carantanta is the quality of the 'scraped' masa. It should be well-browned and crispy, not burnt or gummy.
- ✓This snack is a resourceful way to use the delicious browned bits often found at the bottom of pots when cooking corn masa dishes like tamales or arepas.
- ✓Ensure the pot used for the initial masa preparation has a thick, non-stick bottom to promote even browning and prevent burning.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Serve with a dollop of Hogao for a savory snack.
- Top with crumbled fresh cheese (queso fresco or costeño) for added richness.
- Serve as a side dish to stews or soups.