Sweet corn…It’s a summer time crop! It’s interesting to sit back and think about the many ways to use it. So much can be made with it! So, what are some corn based foods you can make other than the usual corn on the cob or seasoned whole kernel corn? There are so many foods you can easily make with this delicious staple. Here are just some options and descriptions to get you started on exploring how to serve this summer crop!
Charred Corn:
Enjoy it as is, as a side dish or in a salad. You have so many options when it comes to eating charred corn! Cut it off the cob, or keep it on. Toss charred corn kernels with some feta cheese and herbs. Enjoy it with a spoon!
Grilled Corn Skewers:
This is like making kabobs. If you are using bamboo skewers, be sure to soak them in water 20 minutes prior to use. Then add meats such as beef, chicken or pork. In addition to corn, add other vegetables too if you would like. Pepper, onions and mushrooms are great options and go extremely well with corn and different types of meat.
Dip, Salsa and Relish:
How about adding some corn kernels to your guacamole for a bit of crunch, and LOTS of sweet flavor. Corn salsa and relish pair beautifully with some soft shell fish tacos. Include plenty of chopped cilantro, garlic powder and other spices.
Corn Fritters:
Corn Fritters are fried cakes consisting of seasoned batter and corn kernels. They are a quick and easy food to make. These cakes make for a yummy snack or side dish to go along with any meal. Typically, they are made by combining: flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, eggs and milk. Then, they are formed into patties and pan fried up in oil until golden brown. Once you fry up a batch of these, try pairing them with sour cream and scallions. Garlic Aioli is a great dipping sauce for them too!
Cornbread:
You can puree it, you can even add whole kernels into your cornbread. If you have never made it in the cast iron skillet, then you must! The edges get perfectly baked and the bread cooks so evenly. Use your favorite cornbread recipe.
Sweet Corn Ice Cream:
Get your churn on and make some ice cream! You’re in for a real treat with this one. If you haven’t tried sweet corn ice cream then you should. It is sweet and has a thicker consistency to it than most ice creams. If you like corn, then you’ll love this!
Popcorn:
Alright, so this is an obvious one. It’s also an easy one. First, place some dried corn in a paper bag and fold the bag over twice. Next, you will want to microwave it anywhere between 2 to 4 minutes or until you hear the popcorn stop popping. This microwave time is all based on how your microwave heats. Finally, place the popcorn in a large bowl and enjoy! Or, dress it to your liking with any butter and seasonings.
Cornmeal Waffles/Pancakes:
These are for sure an acquired taste. Use a cornmeal base and add some kernels of corn in the batter. If you like chicken and waffles, then you will like corn waffles paired with fried chicken. The cornmeal waffles/pancakes give off such a wonderful texture and unique flavor when combined with chicken.
Corn Pudding:
If you haven’t had corn pudding, then you’re missing out. It’s a decadent dessert that has kernels of sweet corn mixed in with a sweet and fluffy custard. Sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg are used to give it’s unique dessert flavor.
See? There are so many different ways to use corn! What are some of your favorite ways to eat corn? Is there anything that you desperately want to try?