Humitas Dulces
Sweet Ecuadorian tamales made from fresh corn, milk, sugar, and sometimes cheese, steamed in corn husks. They are a popular snack or dessert, especially during harvest seasons.
🧂 Ingredients
- 6 cups Fresh corn kernels(from about 6-8 ears of corn)
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1/2 cup Sugar(or to taste)
- 4 tbsp Butter(melted)
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 12-15 Corn husks(soaked in hot water until pliable)
- 1/2 cup Optional: Grated cheese(like queso fresco or mozzarella)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the corn husks: Soak them in hot water for at least 30 minutes, or until they are soft and pliable. Drain and set aside.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 2
In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh corn kernels, milk, sugar, melted butter, baking powder, and salt. Blend until you have a smooth or slightly chunky batter, depending on your preference.
💡 Tip: For a smoother humita, blend longer. For a more rustic texture, leave some corn kernels whole or partially blended. - 3
If using cheese, stir it into the batter.
- 4
Take a softened corn husk, spread about 1/4 cup of the corn batter onto the wider end, leaving a border. Fold the sides of the husk over the batter, then fold the bottom up to create a sealed packet.
💡 Tip: Don't overfill the husk, as the humitas will expand slightly when cooked. - 5
Repeat with the remaining husks and batter. You can tie the humitas with kitchen twine or extra strips of corn husk to keep them securely closed.
- 6
Prepare a steamer. You can use a large pot with a steamer insert or a dedicated steamer. Add water to the pot, ensuring it doesn't touch the bottom of the steamer basket. Arrange the humitas upright in the steamer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
💡 Tip: A large pot with a colander placed inside works well as a makeshift steamer. - 7
Cover the pot and steam the humitas over medium-high heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the batter is firm and cooked through. Check by carefully opening one humita.
⏱️ 40 minutes💡 Tip: The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the humitas and your steamer. - 8
Let the humitas cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fresh, sweet corn is essential for the best flavor.
- ✓Ensure the corn husks are well-soaked to prevent them from tearing.
- ✓Adjust the sugar to your personal preference; some like them sweeter than others.
🔄 Variations
- For savory humitas, omit the sugar and add finely chopped herbs like cilantro or scallions, and perhaps some crumbled cheese.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a spiced version.