Humitas Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes  

   Prep Time: 35 minutes

Humitas Ingredients

Humitas Instructions

  1. Carefully remove the husks from the 8 ears of corn, trying to keep them as whole as possible. Set the husks aside and place them in a large bowl of warm water to soften while you prepare the filling.
  2. Cut the kernels off the corn cobs using a sharp knife, collecting about 6-7 cups of kernels.
  3. In a food processor, pulse the corn kernels until you have a coarse, chunky paste. Do not over-process; you want some texture.
  4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Add the finely diced white onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, stirring frequently.
  5. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to a large mixing bowl. Add the processed corn mixture, 1 cup crumbled queso fresco, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup whole milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
  6. Stir in the 2 lightly beaten eggs, 1/4 cup cornmeal, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 cup scallions, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley. Mix until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  7. Drain the softened corn husks and pat them dry with a clean towel. Lay two husks overlapping each other to form a wider surface for each humita.
  8. Spoon about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the corn mixture onto the center of each set of husks. Fold the sides of the husks over the filling, then fold up the bottom and top to form a rectangular packet. Tie each humita with a thin strip of husk to secure.
  9. Arrange the assembled humitas upright in a large steamer basket, making sure they are snug but not packed too tightly.
  10. Fill the bottom of the steamer with water, making sure it does not touch the humitas. Cover and steam over medium heat for 45-60 minutes, checking occasionally to add more water if needed.
  11. Test for doneness by unwrapping one humita; the filling should be set and slightly firm. Let the humitas cool for a few minutes before serving.

Estimated Calories: 210, Servings: 6

Recommended Dishes

Humitas Quick Mistake Fixes

One time, I got a little too enthusiastic with the salt shaker, and wow, did it throw off the whole batch. It is so easy to think a little extra will make things pop, but too salty is never the best outcome. I learned that tasting as I go is a good habit, especially with something as delicate as this. If I ever find myself in that situation again, I try to balance it out with a quick fix, like adding a bit more of the main mixture or serving it with something unsalted. It is a fast way to save what could have been a kitchen disaster and still end up with a delicious result.
There was a time when I left the pot on the stove just a bit too long, and the texture turned out dry instead of that soft, moist bite I love. It is easy to get distracted, but overcooking can really take away from the healthy and comforting feel of the dish. I have found that keeping an eye on the cooking time and checking for doneness early is a great way to avoid this. If things do get a little dry, a quick drizzle of a good sauce or a side of something creamy can help bring back some of that easy, delicious moisture.
Sometimes, even when everything seems to go right, the flavors just do not come together as expected. That is when I get creative with last minute changes to balance things out. A squeeze of lime, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dash of a favorite spice can make a world of difference. It is amazing how fast a bland dish can turn into something great with just a little tweak. I always remind myself that the best meals are the ones that taste good and make me happy, even if I have to improvise a bit at the end.

Humitas Story

I remember the first time I moved away from home, everything felt so unfamiliar and overwhelming. The city was loud, the people were strangers, and even the air seemed different. One evening, after a particularly long and exhausting day, I found myself craving something that would remind me of the warmth and comfort of my family. I called my mom, hoping for a little reassurance, and she immediately knew what I needed. She sent me her best recipe, the one she always used when she wanted to make us feel loved and cared for. It was such a good feeling to know that even from miles away, she could still take care of me in her own way.
I gathered the ingredients and started cooking, following her instructions step by step. The process was surprisingly easy and quick, which was perfect because I was starving and a little homesick. As the aroma filled my tiny apartment, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It was like being transported back to our kitchen at home, with my siblings laughing and my mom humming to herself. The first bite was delicious, and I could not help but smile. It was not just about the food, but about the memories and the sense of belonging it brought with it.
From that day on, whenever I felt lost or disconnected, I would make this dish. It became my go to comfort food, a great way to ground myself and remember where I came from. It was healthy for my body and soul, and it always worked fast to lift my spirits. No matter how far away I was, that simple, familiar recipe had the power to bring me back home, if only for a little while.

Healthy Humitas Tips

When I first tried making this authentic Ecuadorian Humitas recipe at home, I wanted to keep all the delicious, homemade flavors but also boost the health factor. So, I started by swapping out some of the traditional ingredients for healthier options. For example, instead of using a lot of butter or lard, I went with a small amount of olive oil, which is a great way to keep the recipe light and heart-friendly. I also used low-fat cheese and added extra fresh corn to increase fiber and nutrients. These simple changes made the best, easy, and quick Humitas that were still super tasty and perfect for anyone looking to eat better without sacrificing flavor.
Another health tip I discovered is to load up on veggies in the filling. I like to mix in finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini for extra vitamins and minerals. This not only makes the Ecuadorian Humitas more colorful and appealing but also adds a nutritional punch. If you're wondering how to make this recipe even healthier, try steaming instead of baking to preserve more nutrients. With these tips, you can enjoy the best, authentic, and homemade Humitas that are both delicious and good for your health. Trust me, making these small adjustments to the ingredients and cooking method really makes a difference in creating a healthy, simple, and perfect dish every time!

About Humitas Recipe

I'll admit, when I first heard about this Ecuadorian Humitas recipe, I was skeptical. Corn steamed in husks? How could something so simple possibly be the best thing on the table? But after trying this homemade dish, I'm officially a convert. The combination of fresh ingredients and the easy, quick preparation makes for a delicious and authentic experience. If you're looking for a tasty snack or side, this is the perfect recipe to try, especially if you want to impress friends with your knowledge of South American cuisine.
What really won me over was how easy it is to learn how to make Humitas. The recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients-fresh corn, cheese, butter, and a few spices-but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. The best part? You don't need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find items. With a few simple tips, you'll have a batch of these quick, homemade treats steaming away in no time. I was surprised at how quickly the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of this authentic Ecuadorian favorite.
If you're still on the fence, let me assure you: this is one of the best, most delicious recipes you'll ever try. The texture is perfectly soft, the flavor is rich and satisfying, and the process is surprisingly fun. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this easy Humitas recipe is a must-try. Don't forget to experiment with the ingredients and follow the tips for the perfect batch every time. Trust me, once you taste how tasty and authentic these are, you'll be making them again and again!

Humitas Pairings

When I think about the best flavors to pair with humitas, I always lean toward something that balances their naturally sweet and savory notes. A good tangy salsa, maybe with a bit of tomato and onion, can really bring out the delicious corn flavor. I once tried a quick homemade ají sauce, and it was such a great match-spicy, fresh, and easy to whip up. The combination made the whole meal feel more vibrant and healthy, and I love how fast it all came together.
For sides, I usually go for something light and refreshing to keep things balanced. A simple avocado salad with lime and cilantro is my go-to recipe, and it always gets rave reviews from friends. It is so easy to prepare, and the creamy texture of the avocado is a great contrast to the soft humitas. Sometimes, I will add a little pickled onion for a quick punch of flavor, and it just makes the whole plate look and taste amazing.
When it comes to drinks, I have found that a chilled glass of horchata or a fruity agua fresca is the best way to round out the meal. Both are non-alcoholic, healthy, and super refreshing, especially if you are enjoying humitas on a warm day. If I am feeling a bit more festive, a light white wine or a crisp beer can be a good choice too. No matter what, I always look for something that is easy to serve and does not overpower the delicious flavors of the main dish.