Dominican Republic 365
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Dominican Republic 365
Sweet corn and coconut, chilled to perfection
Majarete is a traditional Dominican corn pudding made from fresh sweet corn kernels blended with coconut milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, then cooked until thickened to a smooth, creamy pudding consistency. It is poured into dishes, chilled, and dusted with ground cinnamon before serving.
The dessert showcases the natural sweetness of fresh corn, enhanced by the richness of coconut milk and the warmth of cinnamon. The texture is silky and smooth, similar to a flan or blancmange, and it is always served cold — making it a refreshing dessert in the Caribbean heat. The combination of corn and coconut gives majarete a flavor profile that is distinctly Caribbean.
Majarete is one of the traditional dulces criollos that Dominican grandmothers have been making for generations, particularly during corn harvest season when fresh sweet corn is abundant. It is a dessert that speaks to the agricultural roots of Dominican cuisine and the creative use of local ingredients to create something simple but delicious.
Cut the kernels off 6 to 8 ears of fresh sweet corn into a blender.
Add 1 cup of water and blend until fairly smooth.
Strain the blended corn through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing well to extract all the liquid, and discard the solids.
Pour the strained corn milk into a pot and stir in coconut milk, sugar, a cinnamon stick, a splash of vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
Whisk in cornstarch dissolved in a little cold water to help it thicken evenly.
Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking, for about 15 to 20 minutes until the mixture thickens to a smooth, creamy pudding consistency.
Remove the cinnamon stick and pour the pudding into individual bowls or a serving dish.
Let cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator, dusting with ground cinnamon just before serving.
A home-style reference method; every family and kitchen has its own version.
From sancocho to mangu, the island's table runs deep. Browse every dish and find your next favorite.
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