Harina de Maiz

Ingredients

• 75 g (6 tablespoons)sugar
• 80 g (½ cup)cornmeal
• 1.5 g (¼ teaspoon)salt
• 600 ml (2½ cups)milk
• 5 ml (1 teaspoon)vanilla extract

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the ingredients

   Put the sugar, cornmeal and salt in a medium-sized pan and mix them together. Set the heat to medium-high, then add the milk and vanilla extract and stir to combine.

2. 2

   Cook and serve

   Stir as the cornmeal cooks for 7 minutes. Serve and enjoy.

What is harina de maíz?

Harina de maíz means cornmeal in Spanish, and the name is also used for sweet, cooked cornmeal porridge in parts of Latin America. It is served warm and can be enjoyed at breakfast or whenever a hot, filling bowl sounds good.

This version combines cornmeal and milk with sugar, salt and vanilla. The steady stirring helps the grains cook into a creamy porridge.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 480 calories, 14g protein, 79g carbs, 12g fat.

The cornmeal and sugar provide most of the carbohydrates, while the milk contributes protein and much of the fat. Pair a bowl with fresh fruit for a simple way to add variety to the plate.

Choosing the ingredients

Cornmeal: Use plain, finely or medium-ground cornmeal for a smooth porridge. Coarser grains may need longer cooking to soften.

Milk: Milk gives the porridge its richness and body. Whole milk makes it fuller, while lower-fat milk keeps the flavour lighter.

Vanilla and sugar: Vanilla adds a sweet aroma, while sugar provides the main sweetness. The salt rounds out the flavour.

Stirring for a smooth texture

Initial mixing: Combine the dry ingredients before adding the milk so the cornmeal is more evenly dispersed. Stir again as the liquid goes into the pan.

During cooking: Keep stirring while the porridge cooks for 7 minutes, paying attention to the bottom and corners of the pan. This helps prevent sticking and breaks up lumps.

Checking when it is ready

The porridge should look creamy, with the cornmeal softened after the stated 7 minutes of cooking. If it is still gritty, continue cooking and stirring until the texture suits you.

It thickens as it stands, so serve it soon after cooking for a looser consistency. Take care when stirring, as hot porridge can bubble.

Serving it warm

Serve the porridge hot in bowls, either on its own or with fresh fruit for a bright contrast. A small splash of milk can loosen it if it has thickened while you set the table.

Because it is sweet and substantial, it can work as breakfast or as a simple hot snack.

Making the recipe your own

Adjust the sweetness to taste the next time you make it, keeping in mind that reducing the sugar changes the balance of the original recipe. You can also finish each bowl with a little extra milk.

For a different flavour, add a pinch of cinnamon or serve with sliced banana. Keep additions modest so the warm cornmeal remains the focus.

Recipe notes & tips

• Use a medium-sized pan with enough room to stir without splashing.
• Mix the sugar, cornmeal and salt before pouring in the milk.
• Stir continuously during the 7-minute cooking time, especially across the base of the pan.
• Serve promptly if you prefer a softer, looser porridge.
• Add a splash of milk to the bowl if the porridge thickens before serving.

Variations

• Cinnamon finish: Sprinkle a little cinnamon over each bowl before serving.
• Fresh fruit: Top with sliced banana or another fruit for a fresh contrast.
• Less sweet: Reduce the sugar to suit your taste.
• Richer bowl: Use whole milk for a fuller texture.
• Looser porridge: Stir a little extra milk into the finished porridge.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Skipping the initial mix: Combine the dry ingredients first so the cornmeal disperses more evenly.
• Adding milk without stirring: Mix as you pour to help avoid lumps.
• Leaving the pan unattended: Stir throughout the 7-minute cook to reduce sticking.
• Cooking over excessive heat: Keep the heat at medium-high and stir carefully to prevent scorching.
• Serving it after it thickens: Serve soon after cooking, or loosen it with a splash of milk.

How to store

Cool leftovers promptly and refrigerate in a covered container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, stirring in a little milk to loosen the porridge.

Frequently asked questions