country of orgin: Mexico

Atòle is a sweet, thick, hot, milk drink that is served in Mexico, much like we serve hot cocoa. It is prepared with corn flour, or corn starch, not cornmeal. Corn flour is sold by Quaker Co. as “masa harina”. Azteca Co. sells it as “Maseca, corn masa mix.” It is used to make tortillas, tamales, etc. Mexican flavored corn starch is sold as Maisena.

1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup water
1/8 cup cornstarch
1/8 cup tortilla flour mix
1 1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla cinnamon

In cold saucepan stir together half of the milk, water, cornstarch, flour. Cook and stir over low heat until thickened and bubbly. Blend in remaining milk, sugar, salt and vanilla, heating through. More corn flour can be added if it becomes too thin. Sprinkle with cinnamon before serving. Serve hot. A similar drink called “Champurrado” is made the same way, adding chocolate flavoring, or fresh fruit. The fruit would be peeled, sliced and pureed in blender.