Riguas de Elote
Riguas de Elote are traditional Honduran corn pancakes, originating from the western regions, particularly Copán. Made from fresh corn masa, they are cooked on a comal (griddle) using banana leaves for added flavor and aroma. These slightly sweet and savory pancakes are a celebration of corn's abundance.
🧂 Ingredients
- 5 ears Fresh corn kernels(about 2 cups when ground)
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 tablespoon Margarine(melted)
- 2 tablespoons Sugar
- 1 pinch Salt
- Banana leaves(for cooking)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Grind the fresh corn kernels in a blender or food processor until a coarse masa forms. If the mixture is too liquidy, strain out some of the excess liquid.
💡 Tip: Using a food processor will give you a better texture. - 2
In a bowl, combine the corn masa, milk, melted margarine, sugar, and salt. Mix well until a semi-liquid batter forms.
- 3
Heat a comal or griddle over medium heat. Place a prepared banana leaf (wiped clean) on the hot surface.
💡 Tip: Banana leaves should be softened by briefly passing them over a flame or dipping them in hot water to make them pliable. - 4
Pour about 1/4 cup of the corn mixture onto the banana leaf. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until lightly golden and cooked through. You can also fold the banana leaf to create a half-moon shape and cook it that way.
- 5
Remove the riguas from the banana leaf and serve warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Serve with butter, crema (sour cream), or queso fresco.
- ✓If banana leaves are unavailable, you can cook them directly on a well-oiled griddle, though the flavor will be slightly different.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a sweeter flavor.
- Some variations include a small amount of masa harina for a firmer texture.