Pamonha is a traditional Brazilian dish, especially popular in the countryside regions. It is made from fresh corn and can be served sweet or savory. This dish is often associated with festive gatherings and is a comforting and nostalgic treat for many.

Pamonha  recipe
Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
1hr 0min
Total Time
1hr 30min

Ingredients

7 Servings
(1 serving = 1 pamonha)

Sweet Pamonha

  • whole corns including leaves
    whole corns including leaves
    12
  • sugar
    sugar
    1cup
  • milk
    milk
    1cup
  • string
    string
    1

Salted Pamonha

  • ears of green corn (with husks)
    ears of green corn (with husks)
    10
  • coconut milk
    coconut milk
    1cup
  • Salt, pepper, and cumin to taste
    Salt, pepper, and cumin to taste
  • chicken breasts
    chicken breasts
    2
  • slices of smoked pancetta, chopped
    slices of smoked pancetta, chopped
    10
  • tomatoes
    tomatoes
    2
  • medium onions
    medium onions
    3
  • Sunflower oil
    Sunflower oil

How to make Pamonha

Cooking Sweet Pamonha

  1. Step 1

    Peel the corn, reserving the best husks to use for wrapping.

  2. Step 2

    Grate the corn kernels and blend them with the sugar and milk until a smooth paste forms.

  3. Step 3

    Place a spoonful of the corn mixture onto a corn husk. Fold the edges like an envelope and tie with strips of husk.

  4. Step 4

    Place the wrapped pamonhas in a pot of boiling water. Cover and cook for 1 hour.

  5. Step 5

    Remove, drain, and serve hot or cold.

Cooking Salted Pamonha

  1. Step 1

    Peel the corn, saving the husks for wrapping.

  2. Step 2

    Grate the corn kernels and blend with the coconut milk, salt, pepper, and cumin. Set aside.

  3. Step 3

    Chop the chicken, pancetta, tomatoes, and onions.

  4. Step 4

    In a pan, heat a little sunflower oil and sauté the chicken, pancetta, tomatoes, and onions over low heat until fully cooked.

  5. Step 5

    Mix the sautéed filling into the corn paste.

  6. Step 6

    Place spoonfuls of the mixture onto the reserved corn husks. Fold into small packets and tie with strips of husk.

  7. Step 7

    Place the pamonhas in a pot, cover with water, and cook for 20 minutes.

  8. Step 8

    Serve hot.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

91.2kcal (4.56%)

Protein

2.4g (4.88%)

Carbs

12.1g (4.4%)

Sugars

12.1g (24.14%)

Healthy Fat

0.2g

Unhealthy Fat

4.4g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

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Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure banana leaves are pliable by passing them over an open flame.

  2. Let them cool slightly before unwrapping, so they hold their shape better and don’t fall apart.

  3. Use a high-speed blender to ensure a smooth corn paste, especially important for the sweet version.

FAQS

  1. Can I make pamonha without banana leaves?

    Yes, you can use aluminum foil or parchment paper as an alternative, but banana leaves add a unique flavor.

  2. How do I store leftover pamonha?

    Pamonhas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam or microwave them wrapped in banana leaves.

  3. Can I steam instead of boiling the pamonhas?

    Yes, steaming is a great alternative. It may take slightly longer, but it prevents the pamonhas from becoming too wet.

  4. What can I serve with savory pamonha?

    Serve savory pamonha with a side of grilled sausages or a sprinkle of dried herbs.

  5. Is pamonha gluten-free?

    Yes, pamonha is naturally gluten-free as it is made from corn and does not contain wheat.

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