Creamy Brazilian Hominy Pudding

Creamy Brazilian Hominy Pudding

💛 Some recipes are more than just dessert. They bring back memories, family traditions, and the comforting feeling of home. Brazilian canjica is one of those beloved recipes that has been passed down through generations and remains a favorite for celebrations and cozy gatherings alike.

In Episode 30 of Prova e Me Conta, we welcomed Nélio, affectionately known as the King of Pamonha 👑🌽, to share his irresistible recipe for creamy canjica. Rich, comforting, and full of flavor, this traditional Brazilian dessert is perfect for chilly days, festive occasions, or anytime you're craving a taste of home.

✨ The secret to a great canjica is patience. Allowing the hominy to soak and cook properly creates the perfect texture, while coconut milk, condensed milk, and warm spices transform it into a truly unforgettable dessert.

📝 Ingredients

• 🌽 400g white hominy (canjica)
  
• 🥛 800ml milk
  
• 🥥 500ml coconut milk
  
• 🥥 100g shredded coconut
  
• 🥫 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  
• 🥫 1 container heavy cream (or table cream)
  
• 🌿 1 cinnamon stick
  
• 🌿 3 to 5 whole cloves
  
• 🧂 1 pinch of salt
  
• ✨ Ground cinnamon for garnish

⏳ Preparing the Hominy

Before cooking, soak the hominy in water for at least 12 hours. This important step helps soften the kernels and ensures they cook evenly.

After soaking, drain the water and cook the hominy in a pressure cooker for approximately 40 minutes after reaching pressure.

Once cooked, drain the hominy and reserve a little of the cooking liquid in case you need to adjust the consistency later.

👨🍳 How to Make Creamy Canjica

1️⃣ In a large pot, add the milk, cinnamon stick, and cloves.

2️⃣ Stir in the cooked hominy and mix well.

3️⃣ Add the sweetened condensed milk 🥫 and stir until fully incorporated.

4️⃣ Add the heavy cream 🥫 for extra richness and creaminess.

5️⃣ Stir in a pinch of salt 🧂. This is the recipe’s secret ingredient! The salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

6️⃣ Pour in the coconut milk 🥥 and stir well.

7️⃣ Add the shredded coconut 🥥.

8️⃣ Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.

9️⃣ Once it reaches your desired consistency, remove from heat.

🔟 Serve warm or chilled and finish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. ✨

💡 Nélio’s Tip

🧂 Never underestimate a pinch of salt in desserts. It helps balance the sweetness and keeps the flavors from becoming overwhelming, creating a more enjoyable and well-rounded dessert.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This creamy canjica is especially delicious served warm on a cool day. It can also be served chilled, where it becomes even thicker and creamier.

☕ Pair it with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or serve it as a comforting dessert at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or Brazilian Festa Junina parties.

✨ A Dessert Full of Tradition

The aroma of cinnamon, the richness of coconut, and the creamy texture of canjica make this dessert feel like a warm hug in a bowl. 💛

Recipes like this turn simple ingredients into meaningful moments, bringing family and friends together while creating memories that last a lifetime.

🌽 Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think. Taste it and tell us! 💛