Indian corn pudding is a delightful traditional dessert that brings together the natural sweetness of corn with creamy textures and aromatic spices. This comforting dish is often enjoyed during festive occasions or as a wholesome treat on cozy evenings.
Its rich flavor profile, combined with the subtle crunch of corn kernels and a hint of cardamom, makes it an absolute favorite across households. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or looking to try something new and heartwarming, this recipe promises to deliver both nostalgia and satisfaction in every bite.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this luscious pudding with ease. It’s a perfect example of how humble ingredients like corn, milk, and jaggery can transform into a luxurious dessert.
Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also steeped in tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Indian corn pudding recipe stands out because it balances creamy richness with a naturally sweet and slightly grainy texture from the corn. Unlike other puddings, it uses fresh or frozen corn instead of cornmeal, giving it an authentic, rustic feel.
The use of jaggery or brown sugar adds depth and complexity, while cardamom and a touch of nutmeg infuse the pudding with warm, inviting aromas.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it warm for a comforting dessert or chilled for a refreshing treat.
The recipe is straightforward, requires minimal equipment, and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this pudding will surely impress.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 3-4 ears of corn if fresh)
- 3 cups whole milk (can substitute with coconut or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 cup jaggery (or use brown sugar as an alternative)
- 1/4 cup rice flour (helps thicken the pudding)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter, optional but recommended for richness)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon rose water (optional, for aroma)
- Chopped nuts for garnish (such as pistachios or almonds)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan or heavy-bottomed pot
- Blender or food processor (for pureeing corn)
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother texture)
- Serving bowls or ramekins
Instructions
- Prepare the corn: If using fresh corn, carefully remove the kernels from the cobs using a sharp knife. If using frozen, thaw them completely. Set aside about 1/4 cup of whole kernels for texture.
- Puree the corn: Place the remaining corn kernels in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. This helps create a creamy base for the pudding.
- Mix rice flour and milk: In a bowl, whisk together the rice flour with about 1/2 cup of the milk until smooth and free of lumps. This slurry will thicken the pudding later.
- Cook the corn mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the pureed corn, remaining milk, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add the rice flour slurry: Slowly pour the rice flour and milk mixture into the saucepan while continuously stirring. This will begin to thicken the pudding.
- Sweeten the pudding: Once the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes), add the jaggery and continue stirring until it dissolves completely.
- Add spices and ghee: Stir in the ground cardamom, nutmeg (if using), and ghee. Let the pudding simmer gently, stirring often to avoid lumps, for another 5-8 minutes until it reaches a creamy, pudding-like consistency.
- Add texture: Fold in the reserved whole corn kernels and rose water (if using) and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Spoon into serving bowls and garnish with chopped nuts. You can serve warm or chilled based on preference.
Tips & Variations
“For a smoother pudding, strain the pureed corn through a fine mesh sieve before cooking.”
- Dairy-free option: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of whole milk for a vegan-friendly pudding.
- Sweetener alternatives: Replace jaggery with maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar depending on your taste and availability.
- Additional flavors: You can add saffron strands soaked in warm milk for a luxurious aroma and color.
- Nutty crunch: Toast the nuts before garnishing to enhance their flavor.
- Texture preference: If you prefer a chunkier pudding, reserve more whole corn kernels or add a handful of cooked rice for variation.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 34 g |
Protein | 6 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugar | 15 g |
Calcium | 150 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Indian corn pudding is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. Enjoy it warm during cooler months as a comforting dessert or chilled for a refreshing summer treat.
Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
For an authentic Indian touch, serve it alongside lightly spiced chai tea or a mild cardamom-flavored coffee. Garnishing with fresh mint leaves or rose petals can also elevate the presentation.
It pairs beautifully with other Indian sweets like rice kheer or mango lassi for a festive spread.
Conclusion
Indian corn pudding is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity and tradition in every spoonful. Its rich, creamy texture and sweet, fragrant spices make it a delightful treat for any occasion, from family dinners to festive celebrations.
The recipe’s flexibility allows you to adapt it to your dietary needs and flavor preferences, ensuring it will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or an experienced home chef, this pudding is an excellent way to explore the comforting flavors of Indian desserts. It’s nourishing, satisfying, and sure to impress your guests with its unique taste and charm.
Give it a try, and you might find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again!
For more delicious Indian dessert ideas, check out our Mango Lassi and Rice Kheer recipes, perfect to complement this pudding beautifully.
📖 Recipe Card: Indian Corn Pudding
Description: A creamy and comforting traditional pudding made with fresh corn, milk, and spices. Perfect as a dessert or a sweet snack.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a blender, puree half of the corn kernels until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine pureed corn, remaining corn, milk, cream, and sugar.
- Whisk in flour, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in melted butter.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until set and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 35 g
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