Amazing, warm, and comforting from the first spoonful, harina de maíz is a creamy Dominican cornmeal-based porridge-like dish that can be served as a dessert, or as breakfast or dinner. It's a favorite of children and grownups alike and – better yet – quick and inexpensive.
Why we ❤️ it
Travel from Punta Cana to Montecristi, and in every part of our tierrita this is well-known and well-received. Harina de maiz (Dominican cornmeal pudding) was one of my favorite childhood breakfasts, and in turn, I try to make it for my daughter once in a while, although it may be just an excuse for me to have it.
An inexpensive dish, with ingredients that are easy to find, you are going to love it. Making it is such a convenience, and it doesn't take a long time to have it on the table.
What's harina de maíz?
Harina de maíz is the Dominican name for cornmeal, but also for a cornmeal-based porridge that contains whole milk, white sugar, and spices. Some people also love a touch of vanilla in it.
The reason why it became so widespread is that it's sweet, simple, inexpensive, easy, and fast to make. Everybody gets something out of it.
How to serve
This is the kind of dish that should really be a dessert but is served as a breakfast or dinner dish (same as arroz con leche, chacá, trigo con dulce, harina del negrito, and others).
About this recipe
Nearly every Dominican has had harina de maíz at home, and every mom has a special touch that makes theirs unique. The addition of coconut (optional) makes it even better, and more suitable as dessert.
This recipe yields 4 servings of about 1½ cup each.
Recipe
[Recipe + Video] Harina de Maíz (Dominican Cornmeal Pudding)
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal, (harina de maíz)
- 6 cup milk (whole or skim)
- 2 cup coconut milk, (optional - see notes)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- ½ tablespoon cloves, or ¼ teaspoon of clove powder
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (freshly-grated)
Instructions
Combine: Mix all the ingredients (minus the nutmeg) in a pot, let it rest for 10 minutes.
Cook: Heat the mixture over medium heat until it breaks the boil while you stir constantly to prevent it from sticking or clumping.Once it starts boiling reduce heat to low. Cook and stir for another 4 minutes.
Serve: Remove from the heat and pour into serving dishes. Sprinkle with nutmegServe hot or at room temperature.
Video
Tips and Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is calculated automatically based on ingredients listed. Please consult your doctor if you need precise nutritional information.
