Authentic Creamy Brazilian Canjica Recipe: A Warm Comfort Food

As the weather gets chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of food to heat you up. One dish that’s a must-have during the cold months is Brazilian Canjica. Today, we’re sharing a recipe for creamy Canjica that we know you’re going to love. Enjoy!

Ingredients for Creamy Canjica:

• 3/4 cup sugar;
• 1 cup water;
• 2 cinnamon sticks;
• 10 whole cloves;
• 7 oz (approx. 200ml) coconut milk;
• 1 carton (7 oz) heavy cream (or table cream);
• 1 cup white corn kernels (hominy);
• 2 cups boiling water (for soaking);
• 6 cups water (for cooking);
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut.

How to Prepare Creamy Canjica:

1. Start by soaking the white corn kernels in 2 cups of boiling water;
2. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and let it soak for 4 hours;
3. After this time, transfer the corn and the soaking water to a pressure cooker, then add the remaining 6 cups of water;
4. Seal the pressure cooker and cook over high heat for 40 minutes after it reaches pressure;
5. Let the pressure release naturally before opening the lid;
6. In a separate pan, lightly toast the shredded coconut until golden;
7. Add the toasted coconut to the pressure cooker and mix;
8. In the same pan used to toast the coconut, create a caramel by melting the sugar with 1 cup of water until smooth and creamy;
9. Pour the caramel into the pressure cooker and stir well;
10. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, heavy cream, and coconut milk;
11. Bring to a gentle simmer (uncovered) and let it thicken to your desired consistency;
12. Once it reaches the perfect point, it’s ready to serve. Enjoy!

Chef’s Tip:

You can also add a pinch of cardamom to your Canjica. This spice, combined with the cinnamon and cloves, will add a wonderful aroma and a unique flavor profile to your dessert.

Did you know?

Canjica is a classic Brazilian dish, especially popular during the “Festas Juninas” (June Festivals). Its origins trace back to the Indigenous peoples of Brazil. Originally, it was prepared with white corn, water, and salt as a nutritious, energy-boosting meal. Over time, ingredients like milk, sugar, and spices were added, transforming it into the creamy and beloved sweet treat we enjoy today.

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