Ionian Islands-inspired Sweet Corn Pudding

Ingredients

While the original Brazilian Canjica is traditionally made with white corn, coconut milk, and spices like cinnamon and cloves, this Ionian Islands-inspired version uses sweet corn as the base and incorporates flavors commonly found in the cuisine of the Ionian Islands, such as cinnamon, vanilla, honey, and walnuts. The result is a unique fusion of Brazilian and Ionian Island flavors, creating a delightful twist on the classic Canjica. We alse have the original recipe for Canjica, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) sweet corn kernels 2 cups (470ml) sweet corn kernels
• 1 cup (240ml) milk 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1/4 cup (40g) raisins 1/4 cup (40g) raisins
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Honey, for drizzling Honey, for drizzling
• Crushed walnuts, for garnish Crushed walnuts, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 18g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a blender, combine the sweet corn kernels, milk, heavy cream, sugar, raisins, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and ground cloves. Blend until smooth.
2. 2.
   Pour the mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
3. 3.
   Remove the pudding from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. 4.
   Transfer the pudding to serving bowls or glasses.
5. 5.
   Drizzle each serving with honey and sprinkle with crushed walnuts.
6. 6.
   Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Serve chilled and enjoy the taste of the Ionian Islands!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sweet corn kernels — If fresh sweet corn is not available, you can use canned or frozen corn kernels. Just make sure to drain them well before blending.
• Raisins — Soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the pudding. This will plump them up and make them juicier.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can blend half of the corn kernels and leave the other half whole before adding them to the pudding mixture.
• If you prefer a sweeter pudding, you can increase the amount of sugar according to your taste.
• To add a citrusy twist, you can zest a lemon or orange and sprinkle it over the pudding before serving.
• If you don't have walnuts, you can substitute them with almonds or pistachios for a different flavor profile.
• Serve the pudding with a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra creamy and tangy touch.

Serving advice

Serve the Ionian Islands-inspired sweet corn pudding chilled in individual bowls or glasses. Garnish each serving with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of crushed walnuts for added flavor and texture. This delightful dessert is perfect for enjoying on a warm summer evening or as a sweet treat after a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the sweet corn pudding, you can top each serving with a fresh mint leaf or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Serve the pudding in clear glass bowls or glasses to showcase its vibrant yellow color. The contrasting colors of the honey and crushed walnuts will add visual appeal to the dish.