Pamonha is a traditional Brazilian food, heritage of the Brazilian native people. It’s a paste made from milk and fresh corn, and it’s actually a very healthy recipe! This sweet confection resembles the Mexican tamales, and is just as tasty. Traditionally, Pamonha is served with a black cup of coffee, but it can actually be served at any time – hot, cold, and even during a meal.

Ingredients

• 12 ears very fresh corn
• 1/2 cup (115ml) cold whole milk
• 4 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• A pinch of salt

Preparation

1. Using a sharp knife cut off the ears of the corn, and carefully shuck them. Be careful not to rip the husks. Clean off the silk threads and trim them.
2. Set aside the most beautiful husks to wrap the Pamonhas.
3. Grate the ears of corn over a container, then pour the liquid through a sieve, pressing down on the solids to extract all the juice.
4. Stir the sugar and salt into the corn juice until dissolved, then add the milk. Reserve.
5. Trim the corn husks into equal sized rectangles.
6. Using a corn cob as a mold, wrap the cob in at at least four husks, remove the cob, and tie one end of the package of husks securely with kitchen twine or string (you can use also a small strip of corn husk).
7. Carefully fill each package with the liquid corn mixture, then tie the other end of the package with twine tightly.
8. Fill a stockpot (or other large saucepan) with father and bring it to boil. Lower heat, then place the packages in simmering water to cover.
9. Partially cover the stockpot or pan, and let the Pamonhas simmer for 45 minutes to 1h (until the husks turn yellowish). When done, remove the Pamonhas from the water.
10. Drain the Pamonhas and serve hot or at room temperature.

Bom apetite! Enjoy!