Majarete

Majarete Recipe - A Delicious Dessert from the Dominican Republic

Region / culture: Dominican Republic | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Majarete is a traditional dessert from the Caribbean, particularly popular in countries like Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. This creamy and sweet treat is made with simple ingredients like corn, milk, sugar, and coconut milk, resulting in a delicious and comforting dessert.

History

Majarete has its roots in the indigenous Taino culture of the Caribbean, where corn was a staple food. Over time, this simple dish evolved into a beloved dessert enjoyed by many in the region. The addition of ingredients like milk, sugar, and coconut milk added richness and flavor to the dish, making it a popular treat for special occasions and gatherings.

Ingredients

4 cups of whole milk
4 corn cobs
0.5 cup of sugar
2 cups of coconut milk
1 tsp of vanilla
1 pinch of salt
4 cinnamon sticks
0.5 tsp of cinnamon powder
0.5 cup of water

How to prepare

Mix all the ingredients (except the cinnamon powder) and blend.
Pass the mixture through a strainer and reserve (it should have a milky consistency).
Put it in an iron pot and place it on medium heat.
Stir constantly to prevent sticking.
When it thickens, turn off the heat.
Serve immediately in small bowls or ice cream glasses.
Sprinkle with the cinnamon powder.
Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving.

Variations

Add a splash of rum or coconut rum for a boozy twist.
Top with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for added texture.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the mixture constantly while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth consistency.

- Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- For a richer flavor, you can use fresh corn kernels instead of corn cobs.

- Serve the majarete chilled for a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Serving Suggestions

Serve majarete as a dessert after a traditional Caribbean meal or enjoy it as a sweet treat on its own.

Cooking Techniques

Blending the ingredients ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

- Straining the mixture helps remove any lumps or chunks for a silky finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned corn kernels instead of fresh corn cobs.

- Substitute regular milk for coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Majarete can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve majarete in small bowls or glasses for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder or a cinnamon stick for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair majarete with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover majarete in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of majarete contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of majarete contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of majarete contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of majarete contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Majarete is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

Majarete may contain dairy and coconut, which are common allergens.

Summary

Majarete is a creamy and sweet dessert that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential nutrients like calcium and iron.

Summary

Majarete is a delicious and comforting dessert with a rich history in the Caribbean. Made with simple ingredients like corn, milk, sugar, and coconut milk, this creamy treat is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence. Enjoy the flavors of the Caribbean with this traditional majarete recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I hold dear to my heart. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in the small town of Aguada, Puerto Rico. My grandmother, Mama Juana, was a wonderful cook and she had a knack for creating delicious dishes that always left us wanting more.

One day, while Mama Juana was busy preparing dinner, I sat at the kitchen table watching her in awe. She moved around the kitchen with such grace and confidence, her hands moving swiftly as she chopped, stirred, and seasoned with ease. I asked her if I could help, eager to learn her culinary secrets.

With a smile, Mama Juana handed me a wooden spoon and a bowl of cornmeal. She told me that we were going to make Majarete, a traditional Puerto Rican dessert that was creamy, sweet, and oh so delicious. I had never heard of Majarete before, but I was excited to learn how to make it.

Mama Juana began to show me how to mix the cornmeal with coconut milk, sugar, and cinnamon. She explained that we needed to cook it slowly over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. As the mixture thickened, Mama Juana poured it into small bowls and let it cool in the refrigerator.

The next day, I eagerly tried my first bite of Majarete. The creamy texture and sweet flavor melted in my mouth, and I knew that this dessert would become a favorite of mine. I asked Mama Juana where she had learned to make Majarete, and she told me that she had learned the recipe from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her.

As the years went by, I continued to make Majarete for my own family and friends. I added my own twist to the recipe, using fresh corn kernels and a touch of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Each time I made Majarete, it brought back memories of Mama Juana and the time we spent together in the kitchen.

I remember one particular summer when my daughter came to visit me. She had been living in the United States for several years and had missed the taste of home-cooked Puerto Rican food. I decided to surprise her with a batch of Majarete, hoping to bring a taste of our culture back into her life.

As I stirred the cornmeal mixture on the stove, my daughter walked into the kitchen and her eyes lit up with excitement. She couldn't believe that I was making Majarete, a dessert she had not had since she was a little girl. She told me that the smell of coconut and cinnamon brought back memories of our time in Puerto Rico, and she couldn't wait to taste it again.

When the Majarete was ready, we sat at the kitchen table together and savored each spoonful. My daughter smiled as she took a bite, savoring the familiar flavors that reminded her of home. She told me that the Majarete was just as delicious as she remembered, and she thanked me for bringing a piece of our heritage back into her life.

That moment with my daughter made me realize the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. The recipe for Majarete may have been passed down through generations, but its ability to evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia was timeless.

As I continue to cook and share my recipes with others, I am grateful for the culinary wisdom that has been passed down to me from my grandmother and generations before her. The memory of discovering the recipe for Majarete for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.