Pastel de Choclo Dominicano
Pastel de Choclo Dominicano is a savory corn casserole, distinct from its South American counterparts. It features a base of fresh corn kernels, often blended with milk and sometimes a touch of butter, topped with a seasoned meat filling (typically ground beef or chicken), and baked until golden and bubbly. This dish offers a comforting blend of sweet corn and savory meat, making it a hearty and flavorful meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 6 cups Fresh Corn Kernels(from about 6-8 ears of corn)
- 1 cup Milk
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1/2 cup Tomato Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Adobo Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper(or to taste)
- 2 large Hard-boiled Eggs(sliced)
- 1/4 cup Olives(sliced)
- 2 tablespoons Raisins(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- 2
For the corn topping: In a blender or food processor, combine fresh corn kernels, milk, butter, and salt. Blend until smooth. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- 3
For the meat filling: In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- 4
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- 5
Stir in the tomato sauce, adobo seasoning, oregano, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 6
Spread the meat filling evenly over the corn mixture in the baking dish.
- 7
Arrange the sliced hard-boiled eggs, olives, and raisins (if using) over the meat filling.
- 8
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden brown, and the filling is bubbling.
- 9
Let the pastel de choclo rest for 10 minutes before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use fresh, sweet corn for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust seasonings to your preference.
- ✓If you prefer a sweeter topping, you can add a tablespoon or two of sugar to the corn mixture.
🔄 Variations
- Use shredded chicken instead of ground beef.
- Add a layer of mashed sweet plantains (plátanos maduros) for a sweeter version.