1 Oz Lime-Treated Cornmeal (Masa Harina) contains 28 calories. This type of cornmeal is commonly used in Mexican cuisine for making tortillas, tamales, and other dishes. In this article, we will explore what lime-treated cornmeal is, its health benefits, and how to use it in cooking.

Apart from being a staple in Mexican cuisine, lime-treated cornmeal is a versatile and healthy ingredient. It is low in fat and high in fiber, making it an excellent option for those who want to maintain a healthy diet. One ounce of lime-treated cornmeal provides 23 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of protein, and 2 grams of fiber.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, there's something for everyone to learn about lime-treated cornmeal. Let's dive into the details!

What is Lime-Treated Cornmeal?

Lime-treated cornmeal, also known as masa harina, is a type of corn flour used in Mexican cuisine. The corn is treated with lime, which helps to release the niacin in the corn, and makes it more easily digestible. In addition to being a staple in Mexican cuisine, lime-treated cornmeal is also gluten-free, making it a great option for those who suffer from gluten intolerance or celiac disease. It can be used in various recipes, including tortillas, tamales, and other traditional Mexican dishes. To make lime-treated cornmeal, the corn is first cooked in a mixture of water and slaked lime, also known as calcium hydroxide. The mixture is left to soak for several hours, then rinsed and ground into a fine flour.

Calories in Lime-Treated Cornmeal

One ounce of lime-treated cornmeal (28 grams) contains around 100 calories. However, the number of calories can vary depending on how you prepare the cornmeal and what you pair it with. If you make the cornmeal into tortillas, for example, the number of calories per serving will depend on the size of the tortilla, as well as any toppings you add. To reduce the number of calories in your dishes, you can try cooking with lime-treated cornmeal in moderation, and pairing it with healthy ingredients like vegetables, beans, or lean protein sources.

Is Lime-Treated Cornmeal Good for Health?

Lime-treated cornmeal is a healthy and nutritious ingredient that can be incorporated into a balanced diet. It is high in fiber, which helps to promote digestive health and can also reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. In addition, lime-treated cornmeal is a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide long-lasting energy and can help to regulate blood sugar levels. The calcium in the lime used to treat the corn also helps to build strong bones and teeth. However, it is worth noting that lime-treated cornmeal can be high in calories, so it is important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How to Use Lime-Treated Cornmeal

There are many ways to use lime-treated cornmeal in cooking. One of the most popular uses is to make corn tortillas, which can be filled with a variety of ingredients like vegetables, meats, or cheese. To make tortillas, you simply need to mix the cornmeal with water, and then roll out the dough into tortilla shapes. Lime-treated cornmeal can also be used to make tamales, which are a traditional Mexican dish made with corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese. Tamales are often steamed and served with hot sauce, salsa, or guacamole. Other uses for lime-treated cornmeal include making cornbread, adding it to soups or stews for added texture, or using it as a coating for fried foods.

Lime-Treated Cornmeal Recipes

If you're looking for inspiration on how to use lime-treated cornmeal in your cooking, try out some of these tasty recipes! 1. Corn Tortillas: Mix lime-treated cornmeal with water to form a dough, then roll out the dough and cook the tortillas on a hot griddle or skillet. Serve with your favorite fillings and toppings. 2. Tamales: Fill corn husks with a mixture of lime-treated cornmeal, meat or vegetables, and seasonings. Steam the tamales for around an hour, then serve hot with salsa or guacamole.

Substitutes for Lime-Treated Cornmeal

If you can't find lime-treated cornmeal or want to try using a different ingredient, there are a few substitutes you can use. One option is to use regular cornmeal, which will give you a similar texture but won't have the same nutritional benefits as lime-treated cornmeal. Another option is to use masa harina, which is a type of dried, powdered lime-treated corn dough that is commonly used in Latin American cooking. If you are gluten-free, you can also try using almond flour, coconut flour, or other gluten-free flours in your recipes.

Where to Buy Lime-Treated Cornmeal

Lime-treated cornmeal can be found in most grocery stores, especially those that carry Latin American or Mexican ingredients. It may also be available at specialty food stores or online retailers. Some popular brands of lime-treated cornmeal include Maseca, Bob's Red Mill, and Gold Mine.

Storage of Lime-Treated Cornmeal

To keep your lime-treated cornmeal fresh and prevent it from spoiling, it is important to store it properly. Keep it in an airtight container to prevent moisture from getting in, and store it in a cool, dry place like your pantry or a kitchen cabinet. Lime-treated cornmeal should last for several months if stored properly. If you have leftover cornmeal or are not using it frequently, you may want to consider storing it in the refrigerator or freezer.

Safety Precautions while Using Lime-Treated Cornmeal

When working with lime-treated cornmeal, it is important to take some safety precautions to avoid any potential health hazards. First, make sure to use clean, filtered water when mixing the cornmeal, as tap water may contain contaminants that could affect the flavor and texture of the dough. Second, be sure to handle the lime-treated cornmeal as you would any raw ingredient, washing your hands thoroughly after handling it. Finally, be careful when cooking with lime-treated cornmeal, as it can become hot and sticky. Do not touch or eat the cornmeal until it has cooled sufficiently to avoid burns or discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lime-Treated Cornmeal

1. Is lime-treated cornmeal the same as regular cornmeal? No, lime-treated cornmeal is different from regular cornmeal, as it has been treated with lime to release the niacin in the corn and make it more easily digestible. Lime-treated cornmeal is also commonly used in Mexican cuisine to make tortillas, tamales, and other dishes. 2. Is lime-treated cornmeal gluten-free?