Easy Blackened Corn Recipe

Introduction

Corn lovers, rejoice! If you’re looking for a unique twist on your favorite vegetable, blackened corn is the perfect dish to try. This vibrant, flavorful addition to any meal is easy to make and absolutely delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have a side dish that will leave your taste buds dancing. Not only is blackened corn packed with flavor, but it’s also a beautiful dish that brings warm, smoky, and slightly charred flavors to your table. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

2 cups fresh corn (about 2-3 ears)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Prep Time

Preparing blackened corn begins with gathering your fresh or frozen corn. Start by shucking the corn and removing all the silks if you’re using fresh ears. Cut the kernels off the cob carefully, avoiding cutting too close to the deeper parts of the cob – this can make your dish chewy or overly fibrous. If you’re using frozen corn, simply make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. With all of your ingredients ready, the prep time is minimal, leaving you more time to anticipate the delicious end result.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking process for blackened corn is both quick and straightforward. Heat up a skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat, adding olive oil to coat the bottom. Once hot, add in your seasoned corn and allow it to sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes. This helps achieve those beautifully charred edges. Stir occasionally to ensure the corn cooks evenly. Within five to seven minutes, the corn will transform into golden, smoky perfection. The total time to make this dish should take no more than 15 minutes from prep to finish. This recipe yields about four servings, making it perfect for small gatherings or an everyday dinner.

Recipe and More

Blackened corn is exceptionally versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways. Serve it as a standalone side dish, or use it as a flavorful topping for tacos, salads, or grilled proteins. It pairs well with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, a squeeze of lime juice, or even crumbled cheese such as cotija or feta for a tangy touch. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this recipe’s smoky and slightly spicy flavors are sure to become a favorite addition to your culinary repertoire. Try it today and experience the mouth-watering magic of blackened corn!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

To start, gather your fresh corn cobs, clean them well, and remove the husks and silks. If you are using frozen corn, make sure it is fully thawed and drained before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Place a large skillet or cast-iron pan on medium to high heat. Allow the skillet to heat up thoroughly for a couple of minutes before adding any corn. This step ensures the proper blackening of the kernels.

Step 3: Add the Corn to the Pan

Once the skillet is heated, add the prepared corn kernels. Spread them evenly in the pan to ensure they all contact the heat equally.

Step 4: Stir Occasionally

Allow the corn to sit undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes, letting it char slightly. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the corn occasionally so that all sides get a nice blackened effect. Continue this process for about 8-10 minutes or until the kernels are charred to your liking.

Step 5: Add your Seasonings

Once the corn has achieved the desired level of blackening, add your preferred seasonings. Common seasonings include salt, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, or any favorite spices you enjoy. Stir well to coat the corn evenly.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the blackened corn from the heat and transfer it into a serving dish. Serve it hot as a side dish, or use it as a topping for salads, tacos, or other dishes.

Notes

Note 1: Use Fresh or Frozen Corn

Fresh corn kernels provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen corn can be used as a convenient alternative. Make sure frozen corn is thawed completely and drained well before cooking.

Note 2: Type of Pan

A cast-iron skillet works best for blackening corn as it distributes and retains heat evenly. However, a nonstick or stainless steel pan can be used if a cast-iron skillet is unavailable.

Note 3: Seasoning Adjustments

Feel free to adjust seasonings to match your taste preferences. You can make the dish spicier by adding cayenne pepper or milder by skipping chili-based seasonings.

Note 4: Serving Suggestions

Blackened corn can be enjoyed as a standalone side dish or as a versatile topping for salads, tacos, burrito bowls, or even soups.

Note 5: Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the corn in a skillet over medium heat for the best results.
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Cook Techniques

How to prepare the corn before blackening it

Start by using fresh corn on the cob. Remove the husk and silk completely to ensure the corn is clean and ready for cooking. If using frozen corn, make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before proceeding.

Choosing the right pan

Use a cast-iron skillet for the best results. Cast iron retains heat well and ensures even cooking, which is essential for blackening the corn. Non-stick pans can work as well, but they may not achieve the same level of char.

Heating your skillet

Preheat your skillet on high heat until it is very hot before adding the corn. The high temperature is what creates the blackened effect and enhances the flavor.

Applying oil to the corn

Lightly coat the corn with oil before placing it in the pan. This prevents sticking and ensures the corn browns evenly. Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil.

Turning the corn for even blackening

Rotate the corn frequently to achieve a consistent char on all sides. Use tongs to carefully turn the corn every couple of minutes to ensure no side burns excessively or is left uncooked.

Controlling the level of blackening

Monitor the corn closely as it cooks. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent over-blackening. You want a good balance of charred spots while retaining the natural sweetness of the corn.

Serving suggestions for blackened corn

After blackening, serve the corn immediately for the best flavor. You can enjoy it as-is or sprinkle it with your favorite toppings like butter, lime juice, cheese, or fresh herbs.

FAQ

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?

While fresh or frozen corn works best for this recipe, you can use canned corn. Be sure to drain and dry the kernels thoroughly before adding them to the pan.

What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?

If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, a heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan will work well. Avoid using lightweight or thin pans, as they may not heat evenly.

What spices can I use for added flavor?

You can experiment with various seasonings like paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, or cumin to enhance the flavor. Sprinkle the spices over the corn before or after cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Blackened corn is best served fresh, as the texture and flavor can change if stored. However, you can reheat it gently in a skillet if needed.

Is this dish suitable for grilling instead of pan-frying?

Yes, you can grill the corn directly on a barbecue for a similar charred effect. Make sure to rotate the corn frequently on the grill to avoid burning.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Butter can be used, but it has a lower smoke point than neutral oils. Be cautious when using butter, as it can burn quickly. Consider using a mix of butter and oil for flavor and better cooking results.

What toppings go well with blackened corn?

Popular toppings include crumbled cheese like feta or cotija, lime juice, fresh cilantro, chili powder, or a drizzle of sour cream or mayonnaise.

How do I know if the corn is overcooked?

Overcooked corn may appear too dry or have an overly blackened surface with a burnt taste. Keep an eye on the heat and cooking time to avoid overcooking. Adjust the temperature as needed if this happens.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover blackened corn. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet when ready to serve.

Conclusion

The blackened corn recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a versatile addition to various meals. Its smoky and slightly spicy flavor makes it a perfect complement to a wide variety of dishes. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy days or for spicing up your next gathering.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Blackened Corn Salad

Consider mixing the blackened corn with fresh greens, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a creamy dressing for a refreshing salad.

Taco Topping

Use the blackened corn as a delicious topping for tacos, adding a burst of flavor and texture.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Incorporate the blackened corn as part of the filling for stuffed bell peppers, along with rice, beans, and your favorite seasonings.

Southwestern Bowl

Add blackened corn to a southwestern bowl with quinoa, grilled chicken, black beans, and a drizzle of lime crema.

Pasta Mix

Stir the blackened corn into pasta with cheese and seasonings for a quick and flavorful meal.

Grilled Protein Side

Serve the blackened corn as a side dish for grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish.

Flatbread Topping

Use it as a topping for flatbreads along with cheese, cilantro, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a snack or appetizer.

Rice and Grain Bowl

Mix blackened corn with cooked rice or other grains to create a hearty side dish.

Salsa Ingredient

Add the blackened corn to a homemade salsa for an added smoky flavor to pair with chips.

Egg Dishes

Sprinkle blackened corn into scrambled eggs or add it to an omelet for a unique breakfast twist.