Humita en Olla – A creamy corn-based stew that offers a taste of Argentina’s indigenous culinary history. It’s made with freshly ground corn, cheese, milk, and onions, simmered to a thick consistency.
Humita en Olla is a traditional Argentine dish that originates from the indigenous people of the Andes. It’s a creamy, comforting corn-based stew made with fresh corn, milk, cheese, and sometimes onions and spices. Unlike its cousin Humita en Chala (wrapped in corn husks), this version is cooked in a pot, making it a bit easier to prepare. The sweet, fresh flavor of the corn is balanced with the richness of the cheese and creaminess from the milk.
Ingredients:
- 6 fresh corn cobs (or 800 gr frozen corn kernels)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 250 ml milk
- 100 gr queso fresco (or mild cheese), crumbled
- 100 ml heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Grate the Corn: If using fresh corn, grate the kernels off the cob into a large bowl. If using frozen corn, pulse in a blender or food processor to create a coarse puree.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add Spices: Stir in the paprika, cumin, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the spices bloom.
- Cook the Corn: Add the grated corn to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and spices. Pour in the milk and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens (about 10-15 minutes).
- Add Cheese and Cream: Stir in the crumbled queso fresco and heavy cream. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring often, until the stew reaches a thick, creamy consistency.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot.
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 10 gr
- Carbohydrates: 45 gr
- Fiber: 6 gr
Humita en Olla is a creamy, mildly sweet corn stew perfect for any meal. The combination of corn, milk, and cheese gives it a rich texture, while the spices add subtle warmth. It’s an easy-to-make comfort food that showcases Argentina’s rich culinary heritage