Curau

Name: Curau
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 to 6
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 6 ears of sweet corn; 400 ml milk; 80 g sugar; 1 pinch cinnamon; 1 tbsp butter

25 minutes prep 45 minutes cook Serves 4 to 6 vegetarian

Curau finds its place in the heart of Brazil's June festivals, a time when the air is filled with anticipation and the aroma of seasonal treats. Traditionally, it is prepared with a generous hand, embracing the spirit of celebration and community. This version remains true to the way a Brazilian family cook would bring it to the table, embodying the warmth and simplicity of homemade comfort.

The taste of Curau is a luscious blend of sweet corn and creamy milk, with sugar enhancing its natural sweetness and a hint of cinnamon adding warmth. The butter enriches its texture, creating a velvety smoothness that spreads joy with each spoonful. It's a dish that invites you to savor slowly, appreciating the harmony of its simple, yet profound ingredients.

Ingredients

6ears of sweet corn
400 mlmilk
80 gsugar
1 pinchcinnamon
1 tbspbutter

Method

Start by removing the husks and silk from 6 ears of sweet corn. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the kernels from the cob, aiming to get as close to the cob as possible to maximize the amount of corn. This will ensure you capture the sweet, milky juice that contributes to the dish's creamy texture.
Place the corn kernels in a blender along with 400 ml of milk. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step is crucial for breaking down the corn into a fine puree, which will create the creamy base for the Curau.
Strain the blended corn mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large saucepan, pressing down with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the remaining solids. This step ensures a smooth texture, free of any fibrous bits from the corn.
Add 80 g of sugar to the saucepan with the corn and milk mixture. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously with a wooden spoon. The mixture will gradually thicken as it cooks, and it's important to keep stirring to prevent lumps and ensure even cooking.
Once the mixture begins to thicken, add 1 tablespoon of butter and a pinch of cinnamon. Continue to stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated. The Curau should reach a consistency similar to a thick pudding, and you will notice a sweet, fragrant aroma from the cinnamon.
Remove the saucepan from the heat once the Curau has thickened and the butter is fully integrated. Pour the mixture into a serving dish or individual ramekins. Allow it to cool slightly, as this will help it set further.
Serve the Curau warm or at room temperature, as preferred. The texture should be smooth and creamy, with a rich corn flavor complemented by the sweetness of the sugar and the warmth of the cinnamon. Enjoy it as a comforting dessert or a sweet treat during festive gatherings.