Abstract: Improved methods for the formation of nixtamalized corn can result in the reduction or elimination of wastewater. In some embodiments, the method comprises hydrating a corn composition for a time of at least 5 minutes, and in further embodiments from about 5 minutes to about 5 hours. In some embodiments, the corn composition comprises cracked corn, water and no more than about 0.55 weight percent lime relative to cracked corn weight. In additional or alternative embodiments, the corn is combined with water at a temperature of at least about 70° C. at a pH from about 6 to about 7.5 pH units. In further embodiments, the cracked corn has a particle size of less than about 3.5 mm average size. The resulting corn dough can have a water content of about 45 to about 55 weight percent.