Colombian Corn Cakes (Envuelto de Maíz)

Colombian Corn Cakes (Envueltos de Maíz) are different from the Corn Cakes you may know. These look like traditional tamales; however, they are sweet.

These Corn Cakes are a Colombian delight. They are made of corn, cheese, and sometimes raisins. They are usually enjoyed for breakfast or a mid-morning snack with coffee or hot chocolate. In this recipe for Envuelto de Maíz, we use Tropical Quesito Colombiano Cheese for a more authentic flavor. If you prefer something a bit sweeter, just add raisins. Colombian Envuelto de Maíz can also be called Envuelto de Mazorca or Envuelto de Choclo.

Go ahead and surprise your family with these sweet Colombian Corn Cakes with Quesito Colombiano; they are easier than you think, and everyone will love them.

Ingredients

• 3 ears of fresh corn-on-the-cob
• 1 cup of crumbled Tropical Quesito Colombiano, divided
• ¼ cup of yellow cornmeal
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon of softened butter
• ½ teaspoon of salt

Preparation

1. Remove husks from corn cobs; set aside. Cut kernels from cobs to make 2 cups. In blender or food processor combine corn kernels, 3/4 cup crumbled cheese, corn meal, egg, butter and salt. Process until smooth.
2. Place large outer corn husk on work surface; spoon 1 heaping tablespoon corn mixture in center of corn husk. Fold top and sides over to enclose filling. Tie with a thin piece of corn husk. Repeat with remaining ingredients to make 12 packages.
3. Place corn packages in large steamer basket; over high heat, bring water to boiling. Cover and steam corn packages 1 hour.
4. To serve, open corn package; sprinkle with remaining crumbled cheese.