Corn Atol, Guatemalan Corn Beverage

Maricruz Avalos

Ingredients:

CORN: We’re using here canned corn, but if you can find fresh corn go with it. Other option is to use frozen corn.
SUGAR: Brown sugar just add the perfect flavor in my opinion. So does piloncillo. Use any of those or use white sugar if you prefer.
MILK: Whole milk adds creaminess to this corn atole. I am using also water, feel free to use only milk or even only water.
CINNAMON: Cinnamon adds enough aroma and taste to this recipe. You can use cinnamon sticks or cinnamon powder if that’s what you have.
CORN STARCH: Used to thicken the drink, you will need first to dissolve it in cold water to prevent it from forming lumps. Also, if you using fresh corn, you don’t need this ingredient as fresh corn has enough starch to thicken this atole de elote.

Instructions:

Place 3 cups of water in a pot, add the cinnamon stick and place on the stove over medium-low heat. Bring to a gently simmer.
While the water and cinnamon are simmering, add the corn to a blender, pour in the milk, and blend until you’ll have a smooth runny mixture. The more you blend, the smoother your atole will be.
Add the brown sugar to the pot with water and mix to dissolve well. Then, add the corn mixture while mixing with a wooden spoon.
Allow corn atole to gently simmer while stirring for about 5 minutes.
Mix cornstarch with 4 tablespoons of water and whisk until combined. Slowly add the corn starch mixture to the pot while mixing and then allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes or until atole reaches your desired consistency.
Some people like it very thick, in that case, you need to let it simmer for about 20 minutes at medium heat. I like it less thick so I just cook it for about 10 minutes. Corn atole should be thick enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon.

Notes:

Store atole de elote only when it’s completely cooled down. In the fridge can last for up to 3 days well covered in an airtight container. To reheat, place the container in the microwave and heat for 1 or 2 minutes intervals at high. If you want to reheat on the stovetop, place leftovers in a pot, add a splash of water or milk, and bring to a gentle simmer until heated enough.