How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, assemble the pastel up to a day in advance and bake before serving.

What can I use instead of fresh corn?

Frozen corn works well, just ensure it is fully thawed before blending.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Substitute the beef with sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian option.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through.

Creamy Chilean Pastel de Choclo with Sweet Corn and Basil

Name: Creamy Chilean Pastel de Choclo with Sweet Corn and Basil
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Sweet Corn Kernels; Milk; Fresh Basil Leaves, chopped; Butter; Salt; Ground Beef; Onion, finely chopped; Garlic, minced; Black Olives, pitted and chopped; Raisins; Hard-Boiled Eggs, sliced; Salt and Pepper; Cumin; Paprika; Oregano

A traditional Chilean dish with a creamy sweet corn topping

Dive into the flavors of Chile with this comforting, creamy pastel de choclo. Topped with a sweet corn mixture and infused with fresh basil, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner.

1 h 45 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Sweet Corn Mixture

Sweet Corn Kernels

4 cups fresh or frozen

Milk

1/2 cup

Fresh Basil Leaves, chopped

1/4 cup

Butter

2 tablespoons

Salt

to taste

For the Beef Filling

Ground Beef

1 pound

Onion, finely chopped

1 large

Garlic, minced

2 cloves

Black Olives, pitted and chopped

1/2 cup

Raisins

1/4 cup

Hard-Boiled Eggs, sliced

Salt and Pepper

to taste

For the Seasonings

Cumin

1 teaspoon

Paprika

1 teaspoon

Oregano

1/2 teaspoon

Preparation

Preparing the Sweet Corn Mixture

Blend corn and milk

Blend corn and milk together until smooth.

Add butter and basil

Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and add butter and basil.

Add a dash of sugar to the corn mixture for extra sweetness.

Cook and season

Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Season with salt.

Preparing the Beef Filling

Cook onions and garlic

In a large pan, cook the onions and garlic until translucent.

Brown the beef

Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned.

Combine and simmer

Stir in olives, raisins, eggs, and seasonings. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

Ensure the beef mixture is not too wet to help the pastel hold its shape.

Cooking Process

Assemble the Pastel

Spread the beef filling evenly in a baking dish. Top with the sweet corn mixture.

Brown the Top

Place the dish under a broiler to crisp and brown the corn layer.

Final Garnish

Sprinkle additional chopped basil on top before serving.

Plating & Serving