Galactogogue's From Around the World--El Salvador

Galactogogue is the fancy name for a food or drug that induces milk production.  While there are few foods that have officially been studied to prove some galactogogue-properties (such as Fenugreek), many cultures claim their own recipes they swear help mothers produce more milk. Of course, we know the best way to increase milk production is to breastfeed frequently, but these recipes are fun to try, super yummy, and may even have a bit of a placebo effect.  If nothing else, you'll get a snack out of it with some extra calories that you need to supplement all that work with breastfeeding!

The El Salvadorian Quezadilla (not to be confused with the Mexican quesadilla) is a dense, rich cake that is both sweet and savory.  When my sister had her babies, their nanny from El Salvador brought her this cake to help with lactation.  I can't confirm how well it worked for lactation, but it most certainly was delicious and it makes for a great gift to bring a new mom when you go to visit her and baby!

     Ingredients:

•      3 cups granulated sugar
  
•      4 large eggs, yolks and whites separated
  
•      1 can (12 fl. oz.) Evaporated milk, divided
  
•      2 cups Cotija or grated parmesan cheese
  
•      3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
  
•      1 tablespoon baking powder
  
•      1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted
  
•      1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  

1. PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Line 13 x 9 inch baking dish or pan with parchment paper.

2. MIX sugar, egg yolks and 1/2 cup evaporated milk in large mixing bowl with electric mixer on medium speed; add cheese little by little and remaining milk, scrape bowl occasionally.

3. ADD flour, baking powder and melted butter to sugar mixture; mix well. Beat egg whites in medium mixing bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold egg whites into batter. Pour into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle sesame seeds over batter.

4. BAKE for 50 to 55 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan on wire rack. Lift from pan; remove paper. Cut into squares.

https://www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/137341/salvadorian-quezadilla

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