What To Know
- Pour half of the corn kernels into a blender or use an immersion blender to puree them.
- If you don’t have a blender, you can use a potato masher to coarsely mash the corn.
- Whether served as a side dish or incorporated into other culinary creations, this creamy delight will undoubtedly impress your taste buds and become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
Creamed corn, a classic side dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals, can be surprisingly easy to make at home. While canned creamed corn offers convenience, it often lacks the rich, velvety texture of its homemade counterpart. This comprehensive guide will empower you to create creamed corn that rivals the canned version, offering a burst of flavor with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 12 ears of fresh corn (or 24 ounces frozen corn kernels)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment:
- Sharp knife
- Large pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Blender or immersion blender
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn
- Cut the kernels off the ears of corn using a sharp knife. If using frozen corn, thaw it completely.
2. Melt the Butter
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
3. Add the Flour
- Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour until it forms a smooth paste.
4. Cook the Roux
- Continue cooking the roux for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Add the Milk
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer and Thicken
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
7. Season the Sauce
- Add the sugar, salt, and black pepper to taste.
8. Blend the Corn
- Remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Pour half of the corn kernels into a blender or use an immersion blender to puree them.
9. Combine the Corn and Sauce
- Return the pureed corn to the pot with the remaining whole corn kernels.
- Stir well to combine.
10. Heat and Serve
- Place the pot back over medium heat and bring the creamed corn to a simmer.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Creamed Corn:
- For a sweeter creamed corn, add an extra teaspoon of sugar.
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- To add a touch of smokiness, sauté some bacon before adding the corn.
- If you don’t have a blender, you can use a potato masher to coarsely mash the corn.
- Serve creamed corn with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or cornbread for a complete meal.
The Science Behind Creamed Corn
The secret to creamed corn‘s velvety texture lies in the formation of a roux. When flour is cooked in butter, it undergoes a chemical reaction called gelatinization. The starch molecules in the flour absorb water and swell, creating a thickened sauce. The addition of milk further enhances the thickening process, resulting in a smooth and creamy consistency.
Health Benefits of Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is not only delicious but also provides several health benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants: Corn contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect the eyes from age-related damage.
- Good source of fiber: Fiber promotes satiety and supports digestive health.
- Contains vitamins and minerals: Creamed corn is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
The Bottom Line: Homemade Creamed Corn – A Culinary Delight
With just a few simple steps, you can create homemade creamed corn that rivals the canned version. Its rich, velvety texture and burst of flavor will elevate your meals to new heights. Whether served as a side dish or incorporated into other culinary creations, this creamy delight will undoubtedly impress your taste buds and become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
Questions You May Have
1. Can I use frozen corn for creamed corn?
Yes, you can use frozen corn. Thaw it completely before using it.
2. How can I make creamed corn thicker?
To thicken creamed corn, cook the roux for longer or add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water).
3. Can I add other vegetables to creamed corn?
Yes, you can add chopped bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños to the creamed corn for extra flavor.
4. How long does homemade creamed corn last?
Store creamed corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I freeze creamed corn?
Yes, you can freeze creamed corn for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
