Beverages: Atol - How to prepare this delicious drink

 

Atol is a traditional Central American and Mexican hot, thick beverage typically made from masa (corn dough). There are various flavors and variations, but here's a basic recipe for Atol de Elote, which is a sweet corn-based atol:

Ingredients:

- 2 cups of fresh or canned corn kernels

- 4 cups of milk

- 1/2 cup of water

- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)

- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

- 1/4 teaspoon of salt

- 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)

- Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the corn kernels and water. Blend until you have a smooth corn puree.

2. In a large saucepan, combine the corn puree, milk, sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.

3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. This can take about 20-25 minutes.

4. If using vanilla extract, add it and stir to combine.

5. Taste the Atol and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.

6. Serve the Atol de Elote hot in mugs or bowls. You can garnish it with cinnamon sticks or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if you like.

Atol is a delightful and comforting drink, perfect for chilly mornings or as a sweet treat. There are other variations, such as Atol de Piña (pineapple atol) and Atol Shuco (a Salvadoran version made with purple corn), which have different ingredients and flavors.