In Haiti, Maizena used to be very popular when I was growing up. It is one of those items my mother enjoyed but was not always made from scratch.
In fact, she used to get it canned and served refrigerated. Maizena is delicious both cold and warm with soft bread.
Why You Are Going to Love Haitian Maizena
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Haitian Maizena (Cornstarch Porridge)
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornstarch Maizena
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Ground nutmeg
- Additional cinnamon
- Sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch with 1 cup of milk. Whisk until smooth and lump-free.
2. Cook the Porridge:
- In a large saucepan, heat the remaining 3 cups of milk over medium heat.
- Add the sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon to the milk, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Gradually pour in the cornstarch mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a porridge-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add Flavorings:
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Serve
- Pour the Maizena into bowls.
- Sprinkle with optional toppings such as ground nutmeg, additional cinnamon, or a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for extra sweetness.
Haitian Maizena is more than just a breakfast; it’s a comforting taste from the past and a great way to start your day. Its creamy texture and delicious flavors of cinnamon and vanilla bring a bit of Haitian tradition to your table.
You can enjoy it warm or cold, and it’s easy to make and affordable. Plus, you can change it up to fit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the simple comfort of Haitian Maizena.
I was born and grew up in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, where my grandmas, mom, and aunts taught me everything about cooking. Now, I live in the US, and I love hiking, reading, and making meals for my family.
