Culinary Adventure: Brazilian Corn Pudding at Elton’s Café

By Leslie Yager

Legions of regulars visit Elton’s Cafe for comfort food and good karma.

You may hear Elton Sousa and his assistant José Santos switching back and forth from English to Portuguese, so it’s only fitting their menus are injected with a Brazilian twist.

Next time you’re in the library and want to explore something new, try Elton’s Curau de Milo Verde, or Brazilia Corn Pudding. Sousa, who immigrated from Brazil in 1995 likes to infuse the café menu with elements of cuisine from his home country.

Elton said the corn pudding starts with a mix of corn and milk in a blender. He adds corn starch and sugar. The result is a light, not too sweet dessert. Topped with a pinch of cinnamon, the experience is both adventurous and healthy. Not too extravagant for those who seek a modest lunch during the week.

Brazilian cookies and corn cake at Elton’s Café in the library lower level. Credit: Leslie Yager

Sousa said that any unused corn from the pudding becomes the ingredient for “corn cake,” another favorite or regulars.

And while “dining in” is ideal for students and anyone attached to a laptop — the air conditioning and free wifi are also appreciated — this editor likes to take lunch home, set up with real silverware and plates, and savor the silence.

Elton’s Café will be closed from Tuesday, May 27 and re-0pen on Monday, June 2nd, for a long overdue break.

Elton’s Cafe is located in the lower level of Greenwich Library at 101 West Putnam Ave. Hours are Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Closed Sundays.