Skip to content
Forkin
Snack

Pamonha

Pamonha is a traditional Brazilian snack made from fresh corn, milk, and sugar, often wrapped and cooked in corn husks. It has a sweet, creamy texture and is a popular treat throughout Brazil. This recipe offers a vegetarian version of the classic comfort food.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
1 hr 10 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Medium
Per serving
430 kcal
VegetarianGluten-free

Allergen information: may contain milk. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Pamonha

Mise en place

Ingredients

  • 6 pcsfresh corn, on the cob
  • 240 mlmilk
  • 0.5 cupgranulated sugar
  • 0.5 tspsalt
  • 8 pcsDried Corn Husks, large, from the corn cobs

Equipment

blender · large bowl · large pot · knife · kitchen twine

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    Carefully remove the corn husks from the cobs, keeping them as intact as possible. Select 8-10 large, unblemished husks and set them aside to use for wrapping.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Choose the largest and most flexible husks for easier wrapping.

  2. 2

    Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the corn kernels off the cobs. Try to get as close to the cob as possible.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Stand the cob upright in a large bowl to catch the kernels as you cut them.

  3. 3

    Place the corn kernels in a blender. Add the milk, granulated sugar, and salt.

    About 2 min

  4. 4

    Blend the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender a few times.

    About 3 min

    Cook’s note: Blend thoroughly to ensure a smooth texture for the pamonha.

  5. 5

    Take two large corn husks and overlap them slightly to form a wider, stronger base. Fold up the bottom end to create a pocket.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Ensure the folded bottom is secure to prevent the mixture from leaking.

  6. 6

    Spoon the corn mixture into the husk pocket, filling it about two-thirds full.

    About 3 min

  7. 7

    Fold down the top of the husks over the mixture, then fold in the sides to fully enclose the pamonha. Tie securely with a thin strip of corn husk or kitchen twine.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: If the husks are too stiff, you can briefly soak them in warm water to make them more pliable.

  8. 8

    Repeat the wrapping process with the remaining mixture and husks.

  9. 9

    Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully place the wrapped pamonhas into the boiling water.

    About 2 min

    Cook’s note: Ensure there is enough water to fully submerge the pamonhas.

  10. 10

    Boil the pamonhas for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the corn mixture is firm to the touch.

    About 40 min

    Cook’s note: The texture should be similar to firm polenta when cooked through.

  11. 11

    Carefully remove the pamonhas from the water and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Pamonha can be served straight from the husk.

Per serving

Nutrition

72%Score
Calories
430.1kcal
Protein
12.3g
Carbs
96.1g
Fat
5.1g
Fibre
8.1g
Sugar
47.2g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftover pamonhas, still in their husks, in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, or steam until warm.