Maja blanca

Maja Blanca is a traditional Filipino dessert made primarily from coconut milk. Also known as coconut pudding, it is usually served during fiestas and during the holidays, particularly during Christmas in the Philippines.

Ingredients and Preparation

The main ingredients of Maja Blanca are coconut milk, cornstarch, and sugar. Some variations of the recipe also include sweet corn kernels and condensed milk for added sweetness and texture. The mixture is heated until it thickens and then poured into a mould to set. Once set, it is typically topped with latik, a residue of coconut milk fat, or with grated coconut.

History and Cultural Significance

Maja Blanca is a Spanish term, which translates to "white delicacy". The dessert is believed to have been adapted from the traditional Spanish holiday dessert manjar blanco, and was introduced to the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. Over time, the recipe has been modified to include local ingredients such as coconut milk and corn.

Maja Blanca is a popular dessert served at Filipino fiestas, a community feast held to celebrate a town's patron saint. It is also commonly served during the Christmas season, and is a popular choice for dessert at family gatherings and parties.

Variations

There are several variations of Maja Blanca, including Maja de Ube, which includes ube, a purple yam native to the Philippines, and Maja Mais, which includes sweet corn kernels. Some versions also include cheese, adding a savory element to the sweet dessert.

See Also

• Filipino cuisine
• List of desserts
• List of Filipino desserts