Traditional Brazilian Pamonhas Recipe

Ingredients

12 fresh ears of corn, with husks
1 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of salt
1 cup of water
Twine for tying

Steps and instructions

Begin by carefully peeling back the husks from the corn, but do not remove them completely. Remove and discard the silk.
Using a knife, cut the kernels off the cobs into a large bowl. Make sure to scrape the cobs with the back of your knife to get all the "milk".
In a blender, add the corn kernels, sugar, salt, and water. Blend until everything is well combined and smooth.
Spoon the mixture back into the husks, filling them about 2/3 of the way.
Fold the husks back over the filling, and tie each one closed with a piece of twine.
Place the tied husks in a steamer, and steam them for about 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is firm.
Allow the pamonhas to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Tools for making

Knife - for cutting the kernels off the corn cobs and scraping the cobs
Blender - to blend the corn kernels, sugar, salt, and water into a smooth mixture
Twine - for tying the filled husks closed
Steamer - to steam the pamonhas until the filling is firm

Recipe variations

Add grated cheese to the corn mixture for a cheesy twist.
Include diced cooked bacon or ham for a savory version.
Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the corn mixture for a hint of spice.
Mix in chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
Replace the traditional corn husks with banana leaves for a different presentation.
Add a splash of coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
Experiment with different types of corn, such as white or blue corn, for a unique color and taste.
Try blending in cooked vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.
For a gluten-free version, use corn flour or masa harina instead of all-purpose flour.

Recipe overview

Pamonhas is a traditional Brazilian delicacy made from fresh corn. This delicious treat is wrapped in corn husks and then steamed to perfection. It's a slightly sweet dish, often enjoyed as a dessert or snack. This simple and easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through each step to help you make your very own homemade Pamonhas. You can expect a fun and rewarding experience in preparing this traditional dish, and the result is a unique blend of flavors that will delight your taste buds. The corn-based filling is both sweet and savory, offering a texture and taste that is truly unique to this Brazilian dish. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!

Common questions

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
Yes, you can use frozen corn as a substitute for fresh corn. Just make sure to thaw it before blending.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Absolutely! You can experiment with adding ingredients like cheese, coconut, or even savory spices to the filling mixture to create different variations of pamonhas.
Can I grill or bake the pamonhas instead of steaming them?
Traditional pamonhas are steamed, but you can certainly try grilling or baking them. Just adjust the cooking time and method accordingly.
Can I prepare pamonhas in advance and reheat them?
Yes, you can prepare pamonhas in advance and reheat them. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a steamer or microwave until heated through.
What can I serve with pamonhas?
Pamonhas are often enjoyed on their own, but you can serve them with a side of fresh cheese, sour cream, or a drizzle of honey for added flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large bowl - For holding the corn kernels during the preparation process.
Blender - Used to blend the corn kernels, sugar, salt, and water into a smooth mixture.
Twine - Used for tying the filled husks to keep the pamonhas intact during cooking.
Steamer - Essential for steaming the tied husks and cooking the pamonhas to perfection.

Origin stories

Pamonhas are a traditional Brazilian dish, typically prepared during the Festa Junina, the annual Brazilian harvest festival. The history of this food is entwined with the indigenous cultures of Brazil, who have cultivated and prepared corn for centuries. The name Pamonha comes from the Tupi language, and translates to "sticky", a fitting name for this deliciously sweet and gooey corn treat. Its preparation is a communal event, where families gather to peel the corn, grind it, and wrap the pamonhas individually in the husks, symbolizing the unity and cooperation of Brazilian communities. An interesting fact about pamonhas is that in some regions of Brazil, it's customary to insert a single clove into one of the pamonhas before cooking. The lucky person who finds it is said to have good luck for the rest of the year.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.