Corn is a popular side dish comprised of many beneficial nutrients. These nutrients include antioxidants, fiber, and protein. Corn is also versatile. Different products that use corn as a base include corn tortillas, popcorn, corn oil, corn chips, and corn syrup. All of these products alter the nutrition of corn. Therefore, the type of corn you eat will determine the variety of minerals and benefits you receive. However, if you are looking for the best ways to cook typical corn as a side dish, you have come to the right place! This article will go over how to cook corn perfectly in a few different ways.
Types of Corn
Corn is an edible cereal grain, also known as maize. This vegetable has become a staple and loved food group for thousands of years. It grows in a stalk, covered by the husk. Additionally, this husk protects corn from the elements of nature around it.
There are a few different types of corn. These are:
- Popcorn
- Sweet corn
- Dent corn
- Flour corn
- Flint corn
The type of corn that humans typically consume is sweet corn. The corn itself is picked before it reaches maturity. Sweet corn also has more sugar than other types of corn.
Corn can be eaten while still on the cob. This can be pretty fun for little kids, although a little messy! Other ways to eat corn include frozen kernels, fresh kernels cut from the cob, and canned corn.
This article is going to explore the different ways to cook corn kernels. On the other hand, if you are looking for how to cook corn on the cob perfectly, take a look at this article.
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How to Cook Frozen or Fresh Corn Kernels
Corn is a very popular side dish that many people enjoy. It can be eaten at a barbecue after it has been thrown on the grill. It also pairs great with green beans, baked potatoes, or salad. No matter how you enjoy it, everyone can agree that how you cook corn does matter for taste and texture.
Frozen corn kernels are not only cost-effective and convenient, they are also versatile. Additionally, after cooking, they can go in salads, soups, stir-fries, or be eaten on their own. Fresh corn kernels have a crisp texture and taste that is hard to beat. Whichever one you choose is entirely dependent on personal preference.
Let's look at the different ways to cook frozen and fresh corn kernels!
How to Prepare Corn For Serving
Preparing corn kernels for serving is very straightforward. There is not a lot of legwork involved. However, how you prepare them will depend on a few factors.
If you are using frozen corn, it does not have to dethaw completely. On one hand, you can set them out on the counter for 20-30 minutes to allow the ice crystals that have formed to dethaw a bit. Running water over the corn kernels long enough for the ice to melt away is also possible.
If you are using fresh corn kernels, you may need to cut the corn off the kernels before cooking. Of course, the corn can also be cooked on the cob and cut off afterward.
How to Cook Corn by Sauteeing
If you do a quick search, the internet will pull up a plethora of sauteed or fried corn recipes. One reason for this is that fried corn makes for a filling and comforting side dish. It may also take you back to Sunday dinners at your grandparent's house, smelling the ham and corn on the stovetop.
Regardless of your favorite recipe for sautee corn, there is a straightforward cooking method. With this method, you can add your own seasonings, oils, or ingredients to enhance the flavor of your corn! Furthermore, try bacon, onions, and garlic, or let the corn's own flavor shine through.
Steps for sauteeing corn:
- Prepare your frying pan by heating oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the frozen or fresh corn kernels to the hot skillet, reduce heat to low, and begin to fry.
- Continuously stir the corn kernels so they do not burn. This will take around 10-12 minutes.
- The corn will begin to brown lightly. When you have reached your desired level of doneness, remove the corn from the heat.
- After removing the corn, add more butter, salt, and pepper to the sauteed corn.
- Enjoy while hot.
Ingredients to add to corn:
- Bacon
- Onion
- Garlic
- Season salt
- Sugar
- Thyme
- Paprika
- Lemon juice
- Lime juice
- Tomato
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How to Cook Corn by Boiling
Boiling corn kernels is another straightforward cooking method. It also doesn't take a whole lot of time.
To boil corn kernels, follow these steps:
- Fill a large pot with water, then place in the corn. Make sure the water covers the corn completely.
- Bring the water to a boil, then continue to boil for 7-10 minutes. Corn can also boil longer, depending on how soft you would like your kernels. The longer you boil the corn, the softer and more tender the kernels will be. Also, the less time corn boils, the more of a crunchy taste the corn will have.
- Remove the kernels for heat and drain the extra water.
- Add in the extra seasoning, butter, and flavoring. Try garlic, onions, thyme, or even garlic butter.
How to Cook Corn by Roasting
Roasting corn doesn't have to just be for corn on the cob! It is entirely possible to roast corn kernels. Roasting of corn kernels will bring out a crispy outer layer that is simply hard to beat. Therefore, if you enjoy a crispy and flavorful outer layer on your corn, try roasting it the next time you make dinner.
If you are in the mood to try roasting frozen or fresh corn kernels, try following this method:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Mix the corn in a boil with desired seasoning, butter or olive oil, and salt.
- If you are using additional ingredients such as bacon pieces, onions, or garlic, add them to the corn as well.
- Mix until well-coated.
- Place the corn in a roasting pan or on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the oven for 20 to 30 minutes.
- You will know that the corn is ready when it turns golden brown.
- Remove from the heat and enjoy while hot!
What to Serve With Corn
There are many recipes where corn is a delicious side dish and complements the numerous flavors of the dish. Whether you love a good soup or a taco salad, corn can bring a unique flavor and crispiness to the table. Take a look at some delicious foods to serve with corn.
- Hot dogs and hamburgers
- Taco salad
- Pork chops
- Corn salsa
- Cornbread casserole
- Fried chicken
- Barbecue chicken
- Pasta salad
- Sloppy joes
- Lemon chicken
- Salmon
- Meatloaf
- Corn chowder
- Shepherd's pie
- Steak
- Sausage kabobs
- Tacos
- Ribs
Delicious Corn Recipes To Try
- Cheesy Creamed Corn Recipe
- Corn Fritters Recipe
- Corn Soufflé Recipe
- Baked Corn Pudding Recipe
- Sausage-Corn Chowder Recipe
- Spicy Squash Corn Chowder Recipe
- Mexican Corn and Bean Soup Recipe
- Corn Bread and Bean Casserole Recipe
One Last Note
Corn is a versatile, popular, and delicious vegetable. Try using it in a salad or a soup, or roast it in the oven next time you barbecue. Corn is adaptable, cost-efficient, and convenient, making it an excellent side dish! The next time you search for the best ways to cook corn, try one of these tried-and-true methods, and then toss it in one of the yummy recipes listed above! What is your favorite way to cook corn?
The image featured at the top of this post is ©osoznanie.jizni/Shutterstock.com.