Indulge in a taste of Guatemala's culinary heritage with the beloved Atol de Elote. This traditional corn-based beverage holds a special place in Guatemalan cuisine, cherished for its comforting warmth and creamy texture. Made from fresh corn kernels, milk, cinnamon, and sweetened with cane sugar, Atol de Elote embodies the essence of Guatemala's agricultural bounty and cultural richness. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast staple or a soothing evening treat, each sip of Atol de Elote offers a journey through Guatemala's vibrant flavors and traditions. Experience the warmth of Guatemalan hospitality with every sip of this delightful corn-based concoction.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh or canned sweet corn kernels
• 4 cups milk (you can use whole milk for a richer taste)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup masa harina (corn dough)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• Pinch of salt
• Ground cinnamon for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1- In a blender, combine the sweet corn kernels with 2 cups of milk. Blend until smooth.

2- In a large saucepan, combine the corn and milk mixture with the remaining 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of water.

3- Add the cinnamon stick to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

4- In a small bowl, mix the masa harina with a little water to form a smooth paste.

5- Gradually add the masa paste to the simmering corn mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

6- Continue to cook the Atol de Elote over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

7- Once the Atol de Elote has thickened, add the sugar and a pinch of salt, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.

8- Taste the Atol de Elote and adjust the sweetness if necessary.

9- Remove the cinnamon stick from the Atol de Elote and discard.

10- Serve the Atol de Elote hot, garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired.

Enjoy this delicious and comforting drink that captures the essence of Guatemalan cuisine!

Nutritional Values :

Sweet Corn Kernels (4 cups):

• Calories: 400
• Carbohydrates: 88g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 8g

benefits

• Rich in dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
• High in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health.
• Good source of vitamins B and C, supporting overall immune function and energy metabolism.

Milk (4 cups, whole milk):

• Calories: 600
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 32g
• Calcium: 1200mg

benefits

• Excellent source of calcium, crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Contains essential vitamins like vitamin D, which helps in calcium absorption and supports bone health.

Masa Harina (1 cup):

• Calories: 400
• Carbohydrates: 88g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 8g

benefits

• Good source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy levels.
• Contains dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management.
• Provides essential minerals like iron and zinc, important for overall health and immune function.

Sugar (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 400
• Carbohydrates: 100g

benefits

• Quick source of energy, providing readily available glucose to fuel the body.
• Can enhance the flavor and palatability of foods, making them more enjoyable to consume.
• Should be consumed in moderation to avoid negative health effects associated with excessive sugar intake, such as weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, preparation methods, and specific ingredients used. Additionally, the Atol de Elote recipe may not use all of the ingredients in the quantities listed above (for example, not all of the sugar may be consumed).