Majarete
Venezuelan Coconut Corn Pudding
A creamy and sweet traditional Venezuelan dessert made from fresh corn and coconut milk, often topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon. It's a delightful pudding with a unique texture and flavor.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 ears Fresh corn kernels
- 400ml (1 can) Full-fat coconut milk(Use good quality full-fat coconut milk for the best creamy texture.)
- 150g Granulated sugar(Adjust to your sweetness preference. You can also use condensed milk for a richer, sweeter version.)
- To taste Ground cinnamon
- 100ml Water(Optional, to help with blending if needed.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the corn: Carefully cut the kernels off the 4 ears of fresh corn. You can use a sharp knife or a corn stripper. Reserve the cobs if you wish to extract more milk.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Blend the corn and coconut milk: In a blender, combine the fresh corn kernels and the 400ml can of coconut milk. Blend until very smooth. If the mixture is too thick to blend easily, add the optional 100ml of water. For an extra smooth texture, you can strain the corn mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any tough fibers, pressing down on the solids.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Cook the pudding: Pour the blended corn mixture into a medium saucepan. Add the 150g of granulated sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Thicken the majarete: Stir the mixture constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened considerably. It should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape briefly when a line is drawn through it with your finger. The color will deepen slightly.
⏱️ 25-30 minutes - 5
Pour and chill: Lightly grease individual ramekins or a larger serving dish with a neutral oil or butter. Pour the hot majarete mixture into the prepared dishes. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Chill until set: Allow the majarete to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap (pressing it gently onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until completely firm and set.
⏱️ 3 hours minimum - 7
Serve: To unmold, run a thin knife around the edge of the ramekin and invert onto a serving plate. If serving from a larger dish, you can scoop portions directly. Dust generously with ground cinnamon just before serving.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fresh corn kernels is crucial for the authentic flavor and texture of majarete. Canned or frozen corn can be used in a pinch, but the result may be less vibrant.
- ✓Stirring constantly during the cooking process is essential to prevent scorching and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
- ✓For an even smoother pudding, consider straining the blended corn mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before cooking.
- ✓The chilling time is important for the majarete to set properly. Don't rush this step.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk along with the sugar for a richer, sweeter, and creamier majarete.
- Increase the amount of coconut milk or add shredded coconut to the blend for a more intense coconut flavor.
- Incorporate a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract during the cooking process for an extra layer of aroma.