Pastel de Choclo y Queso
A savory and slightly sweet corn casserole, similar to a cornbread pudding, made with fresh corn kernels, cheese, eggs, and milk. It bakes into a golden, tender dish with a delightful balance of sweet corn and creamy, salty cheese.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 cups Fresh Corn Kernels(from about 6-8 ears of corn, or 2 large packages frozen corn, thawed)
- 1 medium White Onion(finely chopped)
- 0.5 cup Corn Oil(plus more for greasing)
- 250 g Queso Paraguayo or Queso Fresco(crumbled or cubed)
- 1 cup Corn Flour (Harina de Maíz)(or fine cornmeal)
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 4 units Large Eggs
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9 inch (23x23 cm) baking dish with corn oil.
💡 Tip: Using a non-stick spray or butter also works for greasing. - 2
In a small skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of corn oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- 3
If using fresh corn, cut kernels off the cobs. If using frozen corn, ensure it's thawed. In a blender or food processor, combine the corn kernels, sautéed onion with its oil, milk, eggs, salt, and pepper. Blend until mostly smooth but with a little texture remaining.
💡 Tip: For a smoother texture, you can process the corn and onion mixture longer. Some prefer to leave some corn kernels whole for texture. - 4
In a large bowl, combine the blended corn mixture with the corn flour and crumbled cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
- 5
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
💡 Tip: Ensure the dish is evenly filled. - 6
Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
💡 Tip: The casserole should be set and slightly puffed. - 7
Let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an even richer flavor, you can use a mix of cheeses, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- ✓If you don't have corn oil, vegetable oil or even lard can be used.
- ✓This dish is excellent served as a side to grilled meats or as a light lunch.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of sugar to the batter for a slightly sweeter casserole.
- Some recipes include a small amount of baking powder for a lighter texture.
- Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for added flavor and heat.