Corn Kernel

Zea mays Vegetable, Grain

Corn Kernel Vegetable, Grain

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable, Grain

The Forktionary Angle

"The golden pearl of summer, bringing a burst of sweetness and sunshine to any plate."

Definition

The edible seed of the corn plant, either fresh, frozen, or canned, prized for its sweet, crisp texture and versatility in many cuisines.

Plant Biology Botanically a fruit (specifically a caryopsis) but culinarily considered a vegetable or grain.
Storage (Fresh) Store unhusked corn in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve sweetness.
Usage Tip Scrape the cob with the back of a knife after removing kernels to extract 'milk' for extra flavor in dishes.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Corn Kernel are:

Sweet Starchy Juicy Mildly Earthy

Chef’s Secret

To char corn kernels for added depth, dry them thoroughly and cook in a screaming hot, dry skillet until browned and slightly blistered.

Best Substitutes

Canned corn

Ratio 1:1

Frozen corn

Ratio 1:1

Fresh corn

requires husking/cutting
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

For fresh, look for bright green husks and plump, milky kernels. For canned/frozen, check for no added sugar or salt.

Recipes Using Corn Kernel

Soups Stews Preparation Course Soups Stews

Three Sisters Stew

Celebrate Thanksgiving with this hearty and flavorful Three Sisters Stew! A vibrant vegetarian main course featuring butternut squash, corn, and beans – the three sisters of Indigenous American cuisine. This comforting stew is perfect for a festive gathering and boasts rich autumnal flavors that will impress your guests. Easy to follow instructions guide you to a delicious, satisfying meal.

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Dairy Free Low Saturated Fat Low Sodium Dairy Free

20 Minute Chicken Chili Dairy Free

Craving a quick, flavourful, and dairy-free chili? This recipe from the Canadian Living Test Kitchen delivers a hearty, satisfying meal in just 20 minutes! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and warming spices, it's the perfect weeknight dinner. Easy to follow instructions make this recipe ideal for beginner cooks.

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Vegetables Tomatoes Corn 60 Minutes Or Less

All American Cowboy Salad

Saddle up for a flavor-packed All-American Cowboy Salad! This easy no-cook recipe is ready in minutes and perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner. The hearty mix of beans, corn, and veggies is tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, making it a crowd-pleaser for BBQs, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal. Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious dressing!

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Main Ingredient Presentation Stove Top Low In Something

Amaranth Quinoa And Corn Chowder

Discover a nutritious and flavorful twist on classic chowder! This recipe features a delightful blend of protein-packed quinoa and ancient grain amaranth, combined with sweet corn for a hearty and satisfying soup. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal or a comforting weekend lunch, this recipe is easy to make and even better the next day! Learn how to incorporate these superfoods into your diet with this delicious and surprisingly simple recipe.

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Time To Make Chili Healthy Beans

Another Vegetarian Chili

This award-winning vegetarian chili recipe is a culmination of years of perfecting the ultimate comfort food. Packed with bold flavors and hearty vegetables, it's the perfect warming dish for chilly fall and winter evenings. No beef? You won't miss it! Serve with your favorite rice for a complete and nutritious meal. This recipe is vegan and gluten-free!

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Dietary Preparation Salads Vegan

Aztec Black Bean Salad Vegan Low Fat

Spice up your life with this vibrant and flavorful Aztec Black Bean Salad! This vegan and low-fat recipe is perfect for meal prepping and is easily customizable to your spice preference. Made with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a zesty chipotle lime dressing, this salad is a fiesta in every bite. Easily adaptable for cilantro-haters (Italian parsley works great!). Get ready for a delicious and healthy meal that's quick to prepare.

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Squash Time To Make Soups Stews 4 Hours Or Less

Azteca Squash Soup

A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian soup inspired by Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico (Bon Appétit Magazine, December 2008). This recipe features roasted butternut squash, a rich blend of spices, and a touch of heat for a truly satisfying and unforgettable autumnal meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering!

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Low In Something Dietary 4 Hours Or Less Low Carb

Baby Lima Beans And Corn

Transport yourself to a Southern kitchen with this heartwarming recipe for Baby Lima Beans and Corn! This classic side dish, often called 'butter beans,' is perfect for potlucks, buffets, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Made with tender baby lima beans, sweet corn, and savory bacon drippings, this recipe evokes the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish alongside fried chicken, ham, pork chops, or your favorite protein. Get ready to experience the taste of Grandma's table!

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Occasion Holiday Event Low In Something 3 Steps Or Less

Baked Potatoes With Shallot Corn Butter

Elevate your simple baked potato into a culinary masterpiece with this vibrant and flavorful Shallot Corn Butter recipe! This easy recipe from Marcia Kiesel's "Quick Flavor Fixes" adds a burst of fresh corn and tangy shallot to create a visually stunning and incredibly delicious side dish or light meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe is adaptable – use the corn butter on roasted baby potatoes, pasta, or even grilled seafood! While fresh corn is recommended for the best flavor, thawed frozen corn works in a pinch. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish!

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Beef Beef Vegetables Meat

Barbara's Flank Steak Dinner

This irresistible flank steak dinner, inspired by Michele Urvater's 'Monday to Friday Cookbook,' became a crowd favorite after friends clamored for 'Barbara's' recipe! Enjoy perfectly seared, thinly sliced flank steak served over vibrant sauteed vegetables and fluffy rice. This recipe is quick, easy, and even reheats beautifully for a delicious lunch the next day. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Dietary Corn Low Cholesterol Preparation

Barley Salad With Tomatoes And Corn

A vibrant and refreshing barley salad, perfect for a summer lunch or side dish. This recipe combines tender barley with sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty basil-garlic dressing. Easy to make ahead, it's ideal for picnics or potlucks!

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Vegetables Dietary Course Time To Make

Barley Shrimp And Corn Salad

This vibrant Barley, Shrimp, and Corn Salad is a summer sensation! Featuring tender barley, juicy shrimp, sweet corn, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a delightful appetizer. Get ready for a burst of flavor in under an hour!

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Low In Something Low Protein Pasta Rice And Grains Healthy

Bbq Black Beans And Rice

This vibrant BBQ Black Bean and Rice recipe is a vegetarian delight! A crowd-pleaser even for meat-lovers, this easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners. Inspired by a classic from 1,001 Vegetarian Recipes, it's bursting with smoky BBQ flavor and satisfying texture. Get ready to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal in under an hour!

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Course Time To Make North American Cuisine

Bean And Potato Soup

This comforting and flavorful bean and potato soup is a perfect weeknight meal! Packed with hearty vegetables and nutritious beans, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness – perfect for chilly evenings.

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3 Steps Or Less White Rice Side Dishes Dietary

Bean And Rice Salad

This vibrant Bean and Rice Salad is a crowd-pleaser! Originally featuring corn (easily omitted), this recipe is packed with flavor and texture. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a potluck contribution, this recipe is easily customizable to your liking. Enjoy the refreshing combination of beans, rice, and zesty dressing!

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Main Dish Low Calorie Spanish Kid Friendly

Beef And Cheese Tamale Pie

This hearty and flavorful Beef and Cheese Tamale Pie is the perfect crowd-pleaser for your next holiday gathering! A comforting twist on traditional tamales, this casserole is quick to assemble and boasts a rich, cheesy topping that will have everyone asking for seconds. Skip the hours of tedious tamale-making and enjoy this delicious alternative that's just as satisfying.

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Weeknight One Dish Meal Weeknight Equipment

Beef Barley Veggy Soup Crock Pot

Warm up with this hearty and delicious Beef Barley Veggie Soup, slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot! Bursting with tender beef, barley, and colorful vegetables, this comforting soup is a complete meal in itself. Serve with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying experience. Freezes beautifully for easy weeknight meals.

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Low Carb Tex Mex Oven North American

Beef Tamale Casserole

Skip the fuss, not the flavor! This easy Beef Tamale Casserole is a delicious alternative to traditional tamales. Baked in a casserole dish, it's like one giant, comforting tamale. We've swapped bell peppers for diced green chilies for a zesty kick—a happy accident that elevated this recipe to 'muy bueno!' Get ready for a hearty, cheesy, and unbelievably satisfying meal.

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