Creamed Corn

Prepare yourself for an utterly delightful and pleasurable experience with this Creamed Corn recipe. Using freshly shucked corn elevates the dish to new heights, and the addition of cream or half-and-half brings out the velvety goodness we all love in creamed corn. While the cornstarch is optional, it adds a thicker texture reminiscent of the canned creamed corn many of us grew up with. However, the variations are endless, making this recipe a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity. From succulent shrimp, firm fish chunks, and mussels to shucked oysters and smoked salmon, there are countless delightful additions you can experiment with. This recipe opens the door to an array of delectable combinations, allowing you to customize your creamed corn according to your preferences. Whether you savor it as a comforting side dish or explore its full potential with a medley of delectable additions, Creamed Corn will undoubtedly become a favorite on your dining table.

Makes: 4 servings

Time: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 ears fresh corn or 3 cups frozen corn kernels (no need to thaw)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 11/2 to 2 cups cream or half-and-half
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Cayenne, to taste (optional)
• Sugar, if necessary
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley leaves for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Shuck the corn and strip the kernels from it into a bowl, saving the liquid.
2. In a skillet or broad saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it foams. Add the corn and cook, stirring, for a minute or two.
3. Pour in 11/2 cups of cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add a good pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne, if desired. Simmer for approximately 10 minutes, or until the corn becomes tender.
4. Taste the creamed corn and add a little sugar if desired. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens further, which should take a few more minutes. If you prefer a thicker texture, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the corn. The mixture will thicken almost immediately. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
5. Garnish the Creamed Corn with chopped fresh parsley leaves before serving.

VARIATIONS:

Creamed Corn with Onion:

• Before adding the corn to the melted butter, cook about 1/2 cup of chopped onion in the skillet until tender, stirring frequently. This should take approximately 10 minutes.

Creamed Corn with Cheese:

• Instead of using cornstarch, thicken the creamed corn with about a cup of grated semihard cheese, such as cheddar. For added richness, sprinkle some Parmesan on top and place the dish under the broiler for a minute or two.

Creamed Corn with Pesto:

• Just before serving, stir in 3 tablespoons of Traditional Pesto (page 27) for a burst of aromatic flavors.

Creamed Corn with Clams:

• In Step 1, when you add the corn, stir in approximately one pound of well-scrubbed clams in the shell. Cover the pan and cook as directed until the clams open and the corn becomes tender, which should take about 10 minutes. Proceed with the rest of the recipe.

TIPS:

• Using Fresh Corn: Shuck fresh corn to achieve the best flavor and texture for the creamed corn.
• Variety of Additions: Experiment with various seafood additions, such as shrimp, mussels, shucked oysters, and bits of smoked salmon, to elevate the creamed corn to new heights.
• Texture and Thickness: Cornstarch is optional but can be added to achieve a thicker consistency reminiscent of canned creamed corn.
• Customization: Feel free to customize the creamed corn by adding onion, cheese, pesto, or clams for an array of delicious variations.
• Serving Suggestions: Creamed Corn is a versatile dish that can be served as a comforting side or explored with delightful additions for a more substantial meal option.

With Creamed Corn as your culinary canvas, the possibilities are endless. Explore the diverse flavors and textures that this recipe has to offer, and delight in the pleasure of creating your own unique combinations. Whether you prefer it classic with the velvety richness of cream or wish to add a touch of spice and zest with cayenne or pesto, this Creamed Corn recipe is sure to impress. Embrace the versatility of this delightful dish, and enjoy the comforting and soulful flavors of Creamed Corn on your table, perfect for any occasion.