Humitas Dulces con Queso
Humitas are a beloved Ecuadorian street food made from fresh corn. These sweet humitas are a delightful variation, incorporating cheese for a savory-sweet balance, and are steamed in corn husks, offering a tender, moist texture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 6 ears Fresh corn on the cob
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 4 tbsp Butter(melted)
- 1/4 cup Sugar(or to taste)
- 2 large Eggs
- 1/4 cup Cornmeal
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Queso fresco or mild white cheese(crumbled)
- 12-16 large Corn husks(soaked in hot water until pliable)
- as needed String or kitchen twine
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Reserve the largest, cleanest husks for wrapping the humitas. Blanch the reserved husks in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to make them pliable. Drain and set aside.
- 2
Cut the corn kernels off the cobs. Scrape any remaining milk from the cobs into a blender or food processor.
- 3
Add the corn kernels to the blender/food processor. Blend until smooth. You may need to do this in batches.
- 4
In a large bowl, combine the blended corn, milk, melted butter, sugar, eggs, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined. The batter should be thick but pourable.
- 5
Gently fold in the crumbled cheese.
- 6
To assemble: Lay two corn husks on a flat surface, overlapping slightly. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the corn mixture onto the center of the husks.
- 7
Fold the bottom of the husks up over the filling, then fold the sides in to create a neat rectangular packet. Fold the top down to seal.
- 8
Secure the humitas with string or kitchen twine. Repeat with the remaining batter and husks.
- 9
Steam the humitas in a steamer basket over boiling water for 30-40 minutes, or until firm to the touch. Add more boiling water to the pot if needed.
- 10
Carefully unwrap the humitas and serve warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If the corn mixture seems too thin, add a tablespoon or two more of cornmeal.
- ✓For a savory variation, reduce the sugar and increase the cheese.
- ✓Humitas can be made ahead of time and reheated by steaming or pan-frying.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicier sweet humita.
- Include a small piece of cooked chicken or pork in the center for a more substantial meal.