Acaçá de Milho - Brazilian Corn Dumplings

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) cornmeal 2 cups (400g) cornmeal
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 1g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, salt, paprika, cumin, dried oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water to the cornmeal mixture, stirring well until a smooth batter forms.
3. 3.
   Allow the batter to rest for 10 minutes to allow the cornmeal to absorb the water.
4. 4.
   Meanwhile, prepare a steamer by filling a pot with water and placing a steamer basket or colander on top.
5. 5.
   Bring the water in the pot to a boil.
6. 6.
   Using wet hands, shape the cornmeal batter into small dumplings, about the size of a golf ball.
7. 7.
   Place the dumplings in the steamer basket, making sure to leave some space between them.
8. 8.
   Cover the steamer and steam the dumplings for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and slightly firm.
9. 9.
   Remove the dumplings from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture in the dumplings.
• Paprika — Opt for a mild or sweet paprika to add a subtle smoky flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Cumin — Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them will enhance their aroma and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, add cooked shrimp or shredded chicken to the dumpling batter before steaming.
• Serve the dumplings with a drizzle of coconut milk for a creamy and tropical touch.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the dumplings.
• Leftover dumplings can be refrigerated and reheated in a steamer or microwave.
• These dumplings can be frozen for later use. Simply steam them again before serving.

Serving advice

Acaçá de Milho is best served warm as a side dish or as a main course accompanied by a variety of toppings or sauces. Consider serving it with a rich tomato-based sauce, coconut milk, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Acaçá de Milho dumplings on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. Serve them alongside the chosen toppings or sauces to allow guests to customize their own plates.