Name: Pastelón de Harina de Maíz
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 4 cups tomato sauce (Our recipe, leave it chunky and season with salt and pepper to taste); 1 Beef filling (Or filling of your choice); 2 cups cornmeal (Polenta can also be used); 2 tablespoons sugar (White, granulated); 1½ teaspoons salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil (Extra oil for greasing the pan); ½ cup raisins (Optional); ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (Or mozzarella, or a mix of both)

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When I think of comfort food, Pastelón de Harina de Maíz immediately comes to mind. This delicious dish has been a staple in my family for years, often served during special gatherings and holidays. I still remember the first time I tasted it at my grandmother’s house; the warmth from the oven mixed with the savory aroma of beef and the sweetness of cornmeal created an unforgettable experience. Each layer of this casserole is a testament to love and tradition, bringing together flavors that comfort and satisfy. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of togetherness, memories, and home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 30 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Oven, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why You’ll Love This Pastelón de Harina de Maíz

It’s Heartwarming

There’s something uniquely heartwarming about Pastelón de Harina de Maíz. The combination of flavors reminds me of family gatherings, where every bite takes you back to cherished moments. It’s a dish that we all enjoy together, reinforcing bonds and creating new memories.

Versatile Ingredients

This recipe celebrates the beauty of versatility. Whether you use a specific type of meat or add vegetables, Pastelón de Harina de Maíz allows for creative expression. It’s your canvas; you can adjust it to fit personal preferences or dietary needs.

Easy to Prepare

Despite its layered complexity, Pastelón de Harina de Maíz is straightforward to prepare. It may look impressive, but it’s quite user-friendly, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned chefs alike. The steps are easy to follow, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

From casual family dinners to festive celebrations, Pastelón de Harina de Maíz shines brightly at any table. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion, providing warmth and satisfaction that everyone craves. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to impress guests.

Deliciously Satisfying

The rich, savory flavor of the beef combined with the sweet cornmeal creates a satisfying balance that is hard to resist. Each bite evokes a feeling of comfort, making you want to come back for seconds. It’s the kind of dish that fills the soul as much as it fills the belly.

Essential Ingredients for Pastelón de Harina de Maíz

The ingredients for Pastelón de Harina de Maíz are simple yet harmonious. Each one plays a significant role in creating the layered flavors that define this casserole. Cornmeal serves as the base, while the beef filling adds richness. Together, these ingredients create a delightful balance that is both comforting and satisfying.

4 cups tomato sauce (Our recipe, leave it chunky and season with salt and pepper to taste)
Beef filling (Or filling of your choice)
2 cups cornmeal (Polenta can also be used)
2 tablespoons sugar (White, granulated)
1½ teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons olive oil (Extra oil for greasing the pan)
½ cup raisins (Optional)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (Or mozzarella, or a mix of both)

Cooking Instructions for Pastelón de Harina de Maíz

Preparing Pastelón de Harina de Maíz is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas. Follow these detailed steps to create this beloved dish, ensuring that each layer is packed with flavor and texture.

In a large pot, mix in cornmeal, 6 cups of water, sugar, salt, and olive oil. Stir the mixture to combine thoroughly. Allow it to rest for an hour if possible; this helps enhance the flavors and texture.
After the resting period, place the pot over medium heat. Stir constantly, watching as the mixture begins to thicken. When it reaches a boil, lower the heat and continue stirring until the consistency resembles that of cream cheese and starts to pull away from the sides of the pot. When you achieve this, remove it from the heat.
Preheat your oven to 300 ºF (145 ºC). Meanwhile, grease a 9″ x 9″ x 3″ (23 cm x 23 cm x 9 cm) baking pan with extra olive oil to prevent sticking.
Spread half of the cornmeal mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan. This base will hold all the delicious layers together.
Next, cover the first layer with half of the cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and mingle with the cornmeal.
Now, add your beef filling on top of the cheese, spreading it out evenly. This layer adds richness and depth to the dish.
Follow with the remaining cornmeal mixture, covering the beef completely. This ensures that every bite will contain the wonderful flavors of the casserole.
Finally, sprinkle the other half of the cheddar cheese over the top. This will create a beautiful, melty crust as it bakes.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake until the top turns golden brown and bubbly, which usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes.
Once baked, allow the Pastelón de Harina de Maíz to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish it with the tomato sauce and serve alongside a refreshing green salad, such as baby arugula with an olive oil vinaigrette.

Things Worth Knowing

Using fresh ingredients: The quality of your ingredients can significantly enhance the final flavor of Pastelón de Harina de Maíz. Fresh vegetables and meat make a big difference.
Layering properly: Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly to create a well-balanced dish. This ensures that each bite offers the perfect combination of flavors.
Cooling time: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Experimenting with flavors: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add spices to the beef filling for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Substitutions and Tips

Making Pastelón de Harina de Maíz is a joyful experience, and it’s always nice to have helpful tips in your back pocket. Here are some useful suggestions to ensure success!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve this casserole with a side of mixed greens or a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Ingredient variations: Feel free to substitute the beef filling with turkey or a vegetarian option like lentils for a different take.
Serving size: This recipe is quite filling, so adjust portions depending on your guests’ appetite!

Perfect Pairings for Pastelón de Harina de Maíz

Enjoying Pastelón de Harina de Maíz is all about creating the right atmosphere and pairings. Here are some great suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Fresh Salad: A light salad, such as a simple arugula or spinach salad dressed with olive oil and lemon, complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed seasonal vegetables for a healthy balance.
Special Occasions: This dish shines during gatherings, making it a perfect centerpiece for family dinners or celebrations.
Comfort Food Nights: Ideal for cozy nights in, Pastelón de Harina de Maíz can satisfy your cravings while bringing warmth to your home.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They also freeze well!

FAQ

Pastelón de Harina de Maíz is a delicious Latin American casserole made with layers of cornmeal and beef filling. It’s a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors, making it a favorite comfort food for many. This dish can be served for lunch or dinner and is loved for its hearty texture and satisfying taste.

Store any leftover Pastelón de Harina de Maíz in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months without losing much flavor.

Absolutely! While the traditional recipe calls for beef filling, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Options include turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian filling made with beans or lentils. This flexibility makes it a great dish for different dietary preferences!

Pair your Pastelón de Harina de Maíz with a fresh salad, such as arugula or mixed greens, dressed with a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables or a flavorful sauce for extra moisture.

Conclusion

Pastelón de Harina de Maíz is a truly special dish that brings together the comforting flavors of home. It’s a wonderful blend of savory and sweet, layered beautifully to delight every palate. I encourage you to try making it and share the joy it brings with your family and friends. You won’t regret it!