If you have some stocked canned corn in your storage for a long time – maybe because you don’t know what to do with them or how to add them in different side dishes or salads, well it’s time to bring and use them out.
There are many different easy and quick ways to cook canned corn.
It’s time to take advantage of this simple canned good because, in this article, I will share some of the easiest and best ways to cook canned corn that will make you want to try it now.
Grab your kitchen tools, and let’s do it!
What is Canned Corn?
Before anything else, let’s define what canned corn is.
Well, as the name implies, canned corn is corn bits in a can. Whether frozen, fresh, or canned, corn is still considered one of the tastiest and most nutritious vegetables suitable for consumption as a side dish or added to different mouth-watering recipes. Ready-to-eat canned corn offers different essential nutrients such as:
- Vitamin C. one serving of this ready-to-eat corn provides 10.5 mg of vitamin C that can be beneficial to your immune system and skin health as well.
- Carbohydrates. The carbohydrates contents of canned corn 22.8grams higher than the frozen corns which are 11grams. By incorporating canned corn with other carb-rich foods, you can boost your body’s energy production which can also enhance your muscle growth.
- Protein. A ¾ cup of canned corn contains slightly more the protein content of a regular fresh corn (2grams) which is 3.2grams. It is advisable to combine canned corn with other protein-rich foods in your daily calories in order to boost your body’s immunity.
- Fiber. Corn is known to have a high content of fiber which can aid in digestive health. For the best results, eat about 25 – 38 grams of fiber each day.
3 easy ways to cook canned corn
Here are the easy ways to cook canned corn. Choose the best method that suits your skills. Let’s get started.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Canned Corn: You can get canned corn in your local grocery or market at a very low price. It is great for long-time storage and may not beat fresh corn’s taste but it is an ideal alternative for convenient cooking. Purchasing fresh corn might not be a smart move considering the preparation time and cost of waste. Choosing organic corn can save you expenses of about 25% according to researchers. Plus, canned corn as mentioned earlier, provides essential nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamin b3, fiber, carbs, and potassium.
- Can Opener: To open the corn safely, you need a can opener. Using a knife to open the can might not be efficient and safe, you don’t want to cut your fingers, so better use a regular can opener. Choosing the best can open can be necessary and it must be easy to use, made from durable materials and comfortable grip.
- Strainer: To effectively rinse the additives away from some commercially canned corn, you need a strainer.
- Spoon: Spoon is necessary when you mix or stirring the corn kernels with other seasonings or ingredients. However, avoid plastic spoon mainly because it can contain chemicals that can contaminate the food you’re cooking.
- Butter: The perfect partner of canned corn is butter. This will add excitement and flavor to the plain corn kettles. One spoonful of butter is enough to add smooth texture and moisture to the corn bits. It is advisable to opt for unsalted or 100% natural butter, if you don’t have butter, you can also use margarine as an alternative.
- Salt and Pepper: These condiments are perfect for adding more savory flavor to the canned corn. The amount of seasoning you can use will be based on your taste preference.
Method 1: Stovetop-cooked canned corn
For this option, you’ll need a medium-sized Saucepan. I recommend using a non-stick pan and other essential features such as a long and comfortable handle, good balance, and excellent heat conductivity.
Here’s what you need to do:
- First, open the canned corn using a can opener and immediately transfer all the contents into the saucepan. Place the saucepan on a medium heated stove. Boil the corn for about 2 minutes.
- After 2 minutes of boiling, using a strainer, pour the content into it and drain the liquid from the boiled corn bits and set aside.
- Finally, using the same saucepan, you can add a tablespoon of unsalted or 100% natural butter, a pinch of pepper and salt to taste. Mix all the ingredients including the drained corn bits together using a spoon. Once all the seasonings are fully mixed and the butter is melted thoroughly, the corn is ready to serve.
Method 2: Microwave-cooked canned corn
In this option, you need a microwave-safe container, preferably glass-made, mainly because plastic can contain chemicals that may contaminate the food. To release the steam and prevent explosion and build-up in the process, it is unnecessary to have an airtight lid.
Here’s what you need to do:
- First, open the canned corn using a can opener and immediately transfer all the contents into the strainer to drain all the liquid content. Rinse the corns bit with running water.
- Place the corn into the microwave-safe container and make sure that all the liquid are drained. To add a savoury taste to the corn, you can season the corn with salt and pepper before putting it in the microwave. If you want to add moist and glossy texture to the corn, add butter.
- As mentioned earlier, you don’t need to have an airtight lidded container that may cause an explosion and trap the steam inside. So it is advisable to leave the lid slightly open to release the steam into the bowl. Set the microwave in High mode and wait for about 4 minutes.
- To make sure that the butter is thoroughly melted to the corn, occasionally stop the microwave and stir the ingredients with a spoon. Return the corn in the microwave and wait for another 2 minutes.
- After a minute or two, carefully remove the food from the microwave and immediately serve the corn into a plate and enjoy.
Method 3: Oven-cooked canned corn
In this method, you need a baking sheet to roast the corn inside the oven effectively. Opt for the one with natural aluminum, rust-resistant, and excellent heat conductivity materials.
Here’s what you need to do:
- First, open the canned corn using a can opener and immediately transfer all the contents into the strainer to drain all the liquid content. Arrange the corn bit on the baking sheet.
- You can start roasting the corn bits by placing the baking sheet in the preheated oven just below the broiler. Wait until the corn turns into golden brown for about 2-3 minutes. To avoid burnt corn bits, you can set your oven to low mode and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the corn from the oven and set aside while letting it cool for about 2 to 3 minutes. Serve and enjoy.
Here’s an easy and mouth-watering canned corn recipe that you should try right now:
Bonus: Super Corn Fritters
Ingredients:
- ½ cups of flour
- 2 beaten eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ tablespoon of salt
- 1 drain canned corn (410 grams)
Watch this video
Important Tips
- To add more flavor to your plain canned corn, you can add smoked paprika, chipotle powder, or any seasonings of your choice.
- Adding canned corn in your mac ‘n cheese can provide essential vitamins in your diet such as lutein. It can also add color and flavor to your salads, salsa, as well as soups.
- Avoid salt and sugar contents in your canned corns. Some processed goods contain salt for preservation. So opt for low-sodium brands and make you drain all the liquid contents before cooking them.
- Canned corn is an ideal alternative to fresh corn. To check the perishability of the corn, always check the label for the expiry date when purchasing any canned vegetables.
- If you have canned corn leftovers, it is a good idea to store it in a freezer for later use.
Related: How to Store Cornbread
Conclusion
The different methods listed above are just basic ways to turn the plain canned corn into a mouth-watering and savory dish. If you have your own canned corn recipe, share it with us by commenting below.
Canned corn offers a wide variety of uses. You can add it to different dishes, salads, as well as soups. With added seasonings, you can turn every dish into chef-like meals that will make:
If you also enjoyed this article, you can share it with your family and friends and surprise them with how easy it is to cook canned corn.
Grab all your kitchen tools, available canned corns, and start cooking right away!