Embark on a culinary adventure through the vibrant and diverse gastronomy of Bolivia with our featured recipe – the delectable Bolivian Humintas. This traditional dish is a true reflection of Bolivian culture, blending indigenous ingredients with colonial influences to create a mouthwatering masterpiece. Humintas are steamed corn cakes, rich in flavor and history, making them a staple in Bolivian households, especially during festive occasions and family gatherings.

In this recipe, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of crafting these delightful corn parcels, ensuring you capture the essence of Bolivian cuisine in your own kitchen. From selecting the finest ingredients to mastering the art of wrapping the humintas, get ready to transport your taste buds to the heart of Bolivia. Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of this South American gem and savor the authentic taste of Bolivian Humintas.

Ingredients:

For the Huminta Dough:

• 2 cups corn flour (masa harina)
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup queso fresco (Bolivian fresh cheese), crumbled
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar

For the Filling:

• 1 cup queso fresco (Bolivian fresh cheese), crumbled
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or mint (optional)

For Wrapping:

• Corn husks, soaked in warm water for 1-2 hours

Instructions:

Prepare the Corn Husks:Soak the corn husks in warm water for 1-2 hours to make them pliable.

Make the Huminta Dough:

1-In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn flour, cornmeal, crumbled queso fresco, melted butter, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

2-Gradually add the milk, mixing well until a soft dough forms.

Prepare the Filling:In a separate bowl, mix together the crumbled queso fresco, grated mozzarella, and chopped fresh basil or mint.

Assemble the Humintas:

1-Take a soaked corn husk and place about 1/4 cup of the huminta dough in the center.

2-Flatten the dough, leaving space around the edges to fold.

3-Add a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of the dough.

Fold and Tie:

1-Fold the sides of the corn husk over the dough, enclosing the filling.

2-Fold the top and bottom of the husk, creating a rectangular package.

3-Tie the huminta securely with a strip of corn husk or kitchen twine.

Steam the Humintas:

1-Arrange the humintas in a steamer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them.

2-Steam for about 45-60 minutes, or until the humintas are firm and cooked through.

Serve:

1-Allow the humintas to cool for a few minutes before unwrapping.

2-Serve warm and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and textures.

Indulge in the authentic taste of Bolivia with these steamed corn cakes, filled with gooey cheese and wrapped in corn husks. These Bolivian Humintas are a true celebration of Bolivian culinary heritage, bringing a taste of tradition to your table.

Nutritional Values

Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and variations of ingredients, so it's essential to use these values as a general guide. Here are approximate nutritional values for the listed ingredients:

For Huminta Dough:

2 cups corn flour (masa harina):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 86g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 8g

benefits:

• Rich in carbohydrates and fiber, providing sustained energy.
• Contains essential minerals like iron and zinc.

1 cup cornmeal:

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 84g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 12g

benefits:

• High in fiber, aiding in digestion.
• Good source of complex carbohydrates for energy.

1 cup queso fresco (Bolivian fresh cheese), crumbled:

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 35g
• Calcium: 630mg

benefits:

• Excellent source of protein for muscle health.
• Rich in calcium for strong bones and teeth.

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted:

• Calories: 800 kcal
• Fat: 92g
• Saturated Fat: 58g
• Cholesterol: 244mg

benefits:

• Provides healthy fats for energy and nutrient absorption.
• Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and D.

1 cup whole milk:

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 8g
• Calcium: 276mg

benefits:

• Good source of calcium for bone health.
• Provides protein and essential vitamins like B12.

1 teaspoon baking powder:

• Negligible caloric contribution

benefits:Leavening agent that adds lightness to the dough.

1 teaspoon salt:

• Negligible caloric contribution

benefits: Enhances flavor and helps regulate fluid balance in the body.

1 tablespoon sugar:

• Calories: 49 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g

benefits:

• Adds sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Provides a quick source of energy.

For Filling:

1 cup queso fresco (Bolivian fresh cheese), crumbled:

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 35g
• Calcium: 630mg

benefits:

• Rich in protein and calcium.
• Adds a creamy texture to the filling.

1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese:

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 24g
• Calcium: 700mg

benefits:

• Another source of protein and calcium.
• Melts well, contributing to the gooey texture.

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or mint (optional):

• Negligible caloric contribution

benefits: Adds a refreshing and aromatic element to the filling.

For Wrapping:

Corn husks, soaked in warm water for 1-2 hours:

• Negligible caloric contribution

benefits:

• Provides a natural, earthy wrapping for the humintas.
• Imparts a subtle corn flavor during steaming.

Please note that these values are approximations and can vary based on the specific brands and variations of the ingredients you use. Additionally, the nutritional values are per the entire quantity listed for each ingredient.