Vegetable, Grain | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Corn

Zea mays Allergen-Free
corn

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Americas, Global
  • Seasonality Summer-Early Fall (fresh), Year-Round (frozen/canned)
  • Source Corn Plant

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond its culinary uses, corn is a crucial global commodity, contributing to livestock feed, biofuels, and industrial products, showcasing its broad economic impact."

Definition

A versatile grain native to the Americas, commonly eaten as a vegetable, ground into flour, or processed for oil and syrup.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Mildly Starchy
TextureTender, Juicy, Slightly Chewy
AromaEarthy, Sweet, Grassy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Production (2022)

~1.2 billion metric tons

Nutritional Highlight

Good source of fiber and Vitamin C

US Average Yield

~177 bushels/acre

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 ear (100g)
Calories96 kcal
Total Fat1.5 g
Saturated Fat0.2 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein3.2 g
Total Carbohydrate21.0 g
Dietary Fiber2.5 g
Total Sugars4.5 g
Calcium2 mg
Iron0.5 mg
Potassium270 mg

Chef’s Secret

To intensify corn flavor and sweetness, lightly char kernels on a hot skillet or grill before adding to dishes like salsas or salads.

Substitutions

Best Match

Peas

1:1

Similar sweetness and burst-in-mouth texture, good color match for many dishes.

Diced Bell Peppers (yellow)

1:1

Adds crunch and sweetness, different flavor profile but good for color/texture.

Hominy

1:1

Larger kernels, less sweet, more starchy, traditional in some Latin American dishes.

Water Chestnuts (diced)

1:1

For crunch and texture in stir-fries or salads, no sweetness.

Buying Guide

For fresh corn, look for bright green husks and plump, moist kernels. Store fresh corn refrigerated; frozen and canned are pantry staples.

Flavor Pairings

Butter Salt Chili Powder Lime Black Beans Tomatoes Cheese BBQ Shrimp

Recipes Using Corn

Vegetables Number Of Servings Cuisine Gifts

Now And Later Vegetarian Empanadas

Satisfy your cravings NOW with these delicious vegetarian empanadas, and enjoy leftovers LATER! This recipe features a flaky, savory crust filled with a vibrant mix of vegetables and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend appetizer. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these easy-to-make, flavor-packed empanadas!

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Preparation Black Beans Main Ingredient Vegan

A Side Of Black Beans And Corn

This insanely easy and flavorful black bean and corn side dish is ready in 10 minutes! Perfect alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired main course (like our Mexican Chicken!), this vibrant recipe uses simple canned ingredients for ultimate convenience. Elevate your next Taco Tuesday or weeknight dinner with this quick and delicious side that's bursting with fresh corn flavor. Try it with Mexican-style corn for an extra authentic touch!

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Diabetic Occasion Equipment Casseroles

Adi's Shepherd's Pie

This Shepherd's Pie recipe holds a special place in my heart! Created when I was just 13 for my brother, Adi (hence the name!), it's been a family favorite ever since. Unlike some recipes, I use frozen corn to keep everything wonderfully moist and tender. Get ready for a comforting classic with a heartwarming story – perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in! My eyeballed measurements are included, but feel free to adjust to your liking.

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Cuisine Cuban Course Taste Mood

Ajiaco Cubano

Embark on a culinary journey through time with this authentic Ajiaco Cubano recipe! This hearty Cuban stew, a true reflection of Cuba's rich and diverse heritage, is a celebration of flavors from Indigenous roots to Spanish, African, and Chinese influences. Fernando Ortiz famously described Cuban cuisine as a 'mestizaje'—a vibrant blend of cultures—and this Ajiaco embodies that spirit perfectly. Imagine tender chunks of affordable, Cuban-style cut meat simmering alongside a medley of indigenous root vegetables like potatoes, yuca, malanga, and sweet potatoes, enhanced by the sweetness of pumpkin and turnip, and a hint of exotic spices. This isn't just a meal; it's a story told through every delicious bite. Learn the secrets passed down through generations, from 1925 cookbooks to modern Cuban kitchens, and create a dish that's both comforting and historically significant. Serve with crusty bread and fresh fruit for a truly authentic Cuban experience.

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Ground Beef Easy Low Carb Southwestern United States

Andy's Spicy Potato Soup

A fiery twist on a classic comfort food! This recipe elevates simple potato soup with a rich beef broth and a kick of spice. Perfect for a chilly evening, this hearty and flavorful soup is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to follow instructions and customizable spice level make it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.

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Fruit Breakfast Dietary Fruit

Apple And Cheddar Corn Muffins

Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and savory with these irresistible Apple & Cheddar Corn Muffins! Bursting with juicy apple chunks, creamy cheddar cheese, and the delightful sweetness of corn, these muffins are a fantastic breakfast, brunch, or snack option. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they're sure to become a family favorite.

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Served Hot 30 Minutes Or Less North American Course

Applebee's Vegetable Medley

Recreate the zesty, flavorful vegetable medley you love from Applebee's! This vibrant side dish is bursting with fresh vegetables and a delicious, tangy sauce. Perfect as a side for any meal, it's quick, easy, and ready in under 30 minutes. Get the recipe now!

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Carrots Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient

Argentine Rice Veggie Salad

A vibrant and flavorful Argentine-inspired rice salad, perfect for a light lunch or side dish. This Rachael Ray-inspired recipe combines fluffy rice with crisp-tender vegetables and a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing and satisfying meal. Easy to make and packed with fresh ingredients!

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Low Cholesterol Low Saturated Fat Preparation Easy

Asian Style Edamame And Corn

A vibrant and refreshing Asian-inspired salad! This recipe combines sweet corn and succulent edamame with a zesty ginger-sesame dressing. Inspired by Paulette Mitchell's *The Complete Soy Cookbook*, this chilled salad is perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer. Get ready for a burst of flavor with ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce!

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For 1 Or 2 Number Of Servings Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less

Asparagus Leek Soup

Indulge in this vibrant and creamy asparagus and leek soup, elevated with a sweet corn and bell pepper relish. A touch of curry powder adds warmth and depth to this elegant yet easy-to-make soup, perfect for a light lunch or a sophisticated starter. Get ready to impress!

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Low Calorie Soups Stews Main Ingredient Course

Aunt Gin's Vegetable Soup Crock Pot

A heartwarming family recipe passed down through generations! This slow-cooked beef vegetable soup, originally made in a pressure cooker, has been adapted for the crock-pot for ultimate convenience. Tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a hint of sweetness create a rich and flavorful broth that even the pickiest eaters will love. Perfect for a chilly evening, served with a side of homemade whole-wheat bread (recipe #94990). This recipe uses readily available ingredients and is easily customizable to your taste preferences.

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Occasion Holiday Event One Dish Meal 60 Minutes Or Less

Awesome Easy Chicken Pot Pie

This ridiculously easy chicken pot pie recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! Made with simple ingredients and ready in under an hour, it's comfort food perfection. My husband raved about it, and it's even better the next day! Get ready for tender chicken, flaky crust, and creamy veggies in every bite. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

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Oven Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less Oven

Baked Corn And Rice Casserole

This festive corn and rice casserole is a delicious and hearty alternative to mashed potatoes or plain rice. Packed with cheesy goodness and vibrant veggies, it's incredibly filling and perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a comforting weeknight dinner. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Healthy Low Sodium Main Ingredient Corn

Baked Corn On The Cob

Elevate your corn on the cob game with this unbelievably easy and delicious recipe! Baked directly in the husk, this method yields incredibly sweet and tender corn. Plus, the husk becomes a handy, natural handle, perfect for enjoying every last bite without messy fingers. This simple technique is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy weeknight dinner.

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Side Dishes Dietary Side Dishes 4 Hours Or Less

Baked Penne With Corn Zucchini And Basil

This cheesy baked penne pasta is bursting with the flavors of summer! Sweet corn, tender zucchini, and juicy tomatoes mingle with creamy mozzarella and Parmesan in a vibrant tomato sauce, all baked to golden perfection. A Williams-Sonoma recipe (July 2009), updated for your kitchen.

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Main Ingredient Healthy 2 Vegetables Side Dishes

Bbq Black Beans And Corn

This vibrant BBQ Black Bean and Corn Salad is a family favorite! Quick, easy, and delicious, it's perfect for a weeknight meal or a summer BBQ. Sweet corn and savory black beans mingle with smoky BBQ sauce in this crowd-pleasing recipe. Serve it warm or cold – it's equally delightful! Great for kids and adults alike.

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Beginner Cook Main Ingredient Beef Main Dish

Bbq Rice And Beef Roundup

A hearty and flavorful BBQ beef and rice casserole, inspired by Rice-a-Roni! This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Easy to make and packed with delicious BBQ flavor, it's sure to become a family favorite.

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Preparation Dietary Deer Low Calorie

Best Midwest Chili You Ll Ever Eat No Noodles Or Kidney Beans

This slow-cooker chili recipe is a Midwest classic, reinvented! Bold, flavorful, and surprisingly easy, this recipe boasts a rich blend of spices and hearty beef, all without the usual kidney beans or noodles. Perfect for a chilly evening, game day, or any occasion when you crave comfort food with a kick. Prepare it in your slow cooker, oven (bean pot!), or on the stovetop – deliciousness is guaranteed!

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