Welcome to the delicious world of Mazamorra Morada con Arroz con Leche, a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of purple corn pudding with creamy rice pudding. This traditional Peruvian dessert is not only tasty but also holds a special place in the heart of Peruvian cuisine. For centuries, mazamorra morada has been enjoyed during festivals, family gatherings, and special occasions, making it a beloved treat for many.

This dish is popular because of its beautiful purple color, which comes from the purple corn, a unique ingredient native to the Andean region. Its sweet and spiced flavor is a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with the comforting texture of arroz con leche (rice pudding). Together, these two desserts create a perfect harmony of tastes and textures that everyone will love. So, let’s dive into making this scrumptious dessert!

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Purple corn (maíz morado) 1 cup
Water 4 cups
Sugar 1 cup
Cinnamon stick 1 piece
Cloves 3-4 pieces
Cornstarch 1/3 cup
Lemon zest 1 tablespoon
Rice 1 cup
Milk 4 cups
Evaporated milk 1 cup
Sweetened condensed milk 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon

For a vegan version, you can replace regular milk with almond milk or soy milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the purple corn: In a large pot, combine 1 cup of purple corn and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Once it’s done, strain the liquid and set aside.
  2. Make the mazamorra morada: In the same pot, add the purple corn liquid, sugar, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it cook for 10 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken the pudding.
  3. Add flavor: After the mixture thickens, add lemon zest. Stir well and remove from heat. Let it cool while you prepare the rice pudding.
  4. Cook the rice: Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water. In a separate pot, combine the rinsed rice with 4 cups of milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
  5. Add creamy goodness: Once the rice is cooked, stir in 1 cup of evaporated milk and 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Add vanilla extract and let it simmer for 5 more minutes, stirring regularly.
  6. Serve: In serving bowls, layer the mazamorra morada and rice pudding. You can serve them separately or mix them together for a fantastic dessert experience!

Nutritional Information

Nutrient Amount Daily Value (%)
Calories 300 15%
Protein 7g 14%
Carbohydrates 60g 20%
Fats 6g 9%
Sugar 30g 33%
Sodium 100mg 4%
Calcium 250mg 25%

Tips and Tricks

  • Adjust sweetness: You can reduce the amount of sugar according to your preference.
  • Flavor variations: Try adding a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist!
  • Common mistakes: Avoid cooking the rice too fast; slow cooking is key for creamy texture.

FAQs

What is Mazamorra Morada?

Mazamorra Morada is a traditional Peruvian dessert made from purple corn, sugar, and spices, known for its vibrant color and sweet flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk in place of regular milk for a vegan version.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving!

Can I add fruit?

Absolutely! Fresh fruits like bananas or berries can be added for a delicious twist.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe typically serves about 6-8 people, depending on portion size.

Is Purple Corn healthy?

Purple corn is rich in antioxidants, and adding it to your diet can provide various health benefits, including improved heart health.

Can I use regular corn instead of purple corn?

While you can use regular corn, it won’t give you the same color or unique flavor that purple corn provides.

What is the best way to thicken the pudding?

The pudding is thickened using cornstarch. Make sure to mix it with cold water before adding it to avoid lumps.

Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, both the mazamorra morada and rice pudding can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for easy serving later.

What spices can I use for flavor?

In addition to cinnamon and cloves, you can experiment with star anise or nutmeg for added flavor dimensions.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to enjoy the wonderful and tasty experience of making and enjoying Mazamorra Morada con Arroz con Leche! Happy cooking!