Imagine a dish that tells the story of a nation through its simplest ingredients - corn, coconut milk, and pure love. Batar Daan is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that transports you to the lush landscapes of East Timor with every creamy, aromatic spoonful. This traditional corn dish is a testament to the resilience and rich cultural heritage of a country that turns humble ingredients into a masterpiece of comfort food. Get ready to unlock a secret recipe that will transform your kitchen into a window overlooking the beautiful landscapes of Southeast Asia!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: East Timorese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g corn, shelled
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 200ml coconut milk
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tsp turmeric
Instructions
- Prepare the corn by thoroughly washing the shelled corn kernels under cold running water to remove any debris or husks.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the coconut milk and add the corn kernels to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle turmeric, salt, and pepper over the mixture, ensuring the spices are well distributed throughout the corn and coconut milk.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the mixture simmer slowly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Cook for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the corn is tender and the liquid has reduced to create a creamy, thick consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let the Batar Daan rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot as a traditional East Timorese side dish or light main course, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose fresh, sweet corn kernels for the most authentic flavor and creamy texture.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution.
- Toast the turmeric briefly with onions and garlic to enhance its flavor and aroma.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the corn from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For extra richness, use freshly pressed coconut milk if possible.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to fully develop.
- Experiment with garnishes like fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness.
- If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a little water or more coconut milk.
- This dish is versatile - serve it as a side or a light main course.
- Leftover Batar Daan can be refrigerated and reheated, often tasting even better the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg
