Have you ever treated yourself to Brazilian Baked Corn Casserole (Pamonha de Forno) with Cheese? If not, get ready for a unique experience! This recipe is a flavor explosion that is both practical and delicious, perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and impossible to resist, this baked corn casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this delicious treat together!
Ingredients for Brazilian Baked Corn Casserole:
- 6 ears of corn, kernels removed (approx. 6 cups or 30 oz)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (or melted lard)
- 2/3 cup water (or whole milk for a creamier texture)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (mild white cheese or mozzarella works best)
- * 1 tbsp baking powder (optional, for a cake-like texture)
How to Make Baked Corn Casserole:
- Prepare the corn by removing the kernels from the cobs and cleaning off the silks. Use a knife to cut the kernels off, scraping the cob to extract as much of the starchy pulp as possible.
- In a blender, add a portion of the corn along with some of the oil and liquid (water or milk). Blend in batches to avoid overloading the blender. Repeat until all the corn is processed.
- In a large bowl, mix the blended corn with the sugar until well combined. If you prefer a lighter, cake-like texture, gently stir in the baking powder now.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 60 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Once baked, let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Chef’s Tip:
For a special touch, add a pinch of salt to the mixture before blending. It enhances the sweetness of the corn and makes the casserole even more irresistible. For a rustic presentation, you can line your baking dish with clean corn husks.
Prep time and servings:
Preparing this Brazilian baked corn casserole takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and yields generous portions for the whole family to enjoy.
A Bit of History:
Did you know that Pamonha is a traditional Brazilian dish with roots tracing back to indigenous cuisine? Originally made from fresh corn, this delicacy has evolved over the years into various versions, including this baked casserole—a more practical, equally delicious way to enjoy the classic.
With this recipe for baked corn casserole with cheese in hand, you are ready to surprise everyone with a dish that is simply irresistible. Whether as a special afternoon snack or a comforting side dish, this recipe is a guaranteed success.
Give it a try and fall in love with this perfect flavor combination—see you next time!