Canjica de Pinheiro

About Canjica de Pinheiro

Canjica de Pinheiro is a traditional Brazilian dessert deeply rooted in the country’s cultural and culinary history. Often associated with festive celebrations such as Festa Junina, this creamy sweet dish is made using hominy corn, milk, and a variety of aromatic spices. The name 'Canjica' comes from the indigenous Tupi language, meaning 'gruel'. It is a comforting and hearty dish that reflects the rich and diverse influences on Brazilian cuisine, from indigenous peoples to Portuguese colonizers and African slaves. In the region of Pinheiro, Canjica is often customized with local flavors, making it a beloved family recipe passed down through generations.

Ingredients

• Hominy corn - 1 cup
• Milk - 4 cups
• Sugar - 1 cup
• Cinnamon stick - 1
• Cloves - 4
• Coconut milk - 1 cup
• Sweetened condensed milk - 1 can (395g)
• Grated coconut - 1/2 cup
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - a pinch
• Ground cinnamon - for garnish

Preparation

The preparation of Canjica de Pinheiro begins with the hominy corn, which must be soaked in water overnight to soften it. This is an essential step to ensure the corn cooks evenly and achieves the desired tender texture.

Steps to Prepare the Canjica

1. Drain the soaked hominy corn and rinse it thoroughly under cold water.
2. Place the corn in a large pot and add 4 cups of water. Bring it to a boil and cook for approximately 1 hour or until the corn is tender. Keep adding water if necessary to prevent it from drying out.
3. Once the corn is tender, drain any excess water, leaving the corn in the pot.
4. Add the milk, coconut milk, and sugar to the pot with the corn. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the cinnamon stick and cloves into the mixture.
6. Bring the mixture back to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
7. Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves after the cooking time is up.
8. Stir in the can of sweetened condensed milk, grated coconut, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
9. Continue to cook the canjica on low heat for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency. Ensure to stir regularly to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Note: The total cooking time may vary depending on the desired consistency of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Once the Canjica de Pinheiro is ready, it can be served warm or at room temperature. To enhance its presentation and taste, sprinkle some ground cinnamon over the top before serving. This dish can be enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet treat during festivals or winter evenings. Pair it with a cup of coffee or herbal tea to balance the sweetness.

How to Enjoy Canjica de Pinheiro

For a more authentic experience, serve the Canjica in small clay bowls reminiscent of traditional Brazilian servings. It's a dish meant to be savored slowly, allowing the creamy sweetness and subtle spices to linger on the palate. It's not just food; it's a celebration of Brazilian heritage, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Celebrate the heritage and flavors of Brazil with Canjica de Pinheiro, a delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering.