Atoles are very popular beverages in Central America with roots in Mayan cuisine. They are a sort of thick drink often eaten with a spoon. Atol de elote is based on fresh corn (elote) and has a wonderfully fresh flavor. For ultimate effect, serve it in a bowl made out of a dried calabash gourd.
Because the corn used in Central America is starchier, you may have to add the suggested cornstarch to achieve the lightly thickened consistency.
Atol de Elote
Course: BeveragesCuisine: El Salvador, GuatemalaAtoles are very popular beverages in Central America with roots in Mayan cuisine. Atol de elote is based on fresh corn (elote) and has a wonderfully fresh flavor.
Ingredients
Yellow corn on the cob — 6 to 7 ears
Water — 4 cups
Sugar — 1/3 cup, or to taste
Salt — 1/2 teaspoon
Cornstarch (optional) — 3 to 4 teaspoons
Ground cinnamon — for garnishing
Directions
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut enough kernels off the corn cobs to make 3 to 3 1/2 cups. Then scrape the cobs with a knife to remove all their milk. Place 2 1/2 cups of the corn in a blender along with 2 cups of the water and puree well.
- Strain the pureed corn through a sieve into a medium saucepan and discard the solids. Stir in the remaining corn kernels, 1/3 cup sugar and salt.
- Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until lightly thickened. If the atol doesn’t thicken to a creamy consistency, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water and whisk into the simmering liquid until it is just thick enough to coat a spoon.
- Pour the hot atol into mugs or small bowls, sprinkle with a little cinnamon and serve hot with a spoon to scoop up the corn kernels.
Atol de Elote Notes and Variations
- Frozen corn can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be nearly as good.
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