Are you craving a taste of summer that's both comforting and incredibly flavorful? Then look no further! This Southern Cream Style Corn recipe is a delicious and easy side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It's one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent, and it's ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for those busy weeknights. Let's dive into this classic dish that captures the essence of simple, homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, shucked
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional, enhances sweetness)
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Corn: Cut the kernels off the corn cobs. You can do this by standing the cob on its end and cutting down the rows. Alternatively, you can use a corn scraper for quicker results. Once the kernels are removed, scrape the cob with the back of your knife to get all the milky goodness.
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Sauté the Onion: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until softened and translucent. This adds a lovely depth of flavor to the dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the corn kernels, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and optional sugar to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and creates a creamy, luscious texture. The corn should be tender but still retain a slight bite.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the corn is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and garnish with fresh chopped chives. Serve immediately as a delightful side dish to grilled meats, fish, or poultry. This is one of the best recipes for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cream Style Corn:
- Fresh Corn is Best: For the most delicious cream style corn, use fresh, in-season corn. The flavor difference is truly remarkable.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked corn will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp kernels.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and sugar to your personal preference. Some people like a sweeter corn, while others prefer it more savory.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
Variations:
- Spicy Cream Style Corn: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Cream Style Corn: Crumble cooked bacon into the corn during the last few minutes of cooking for a smoky, savory twist. This adds a layer of rich flavor that pairs well with the creamy texture.
- Cheesy Cream Style Corn: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy, indulgent treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Fat: High (due to heavy cream and butter)
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: High
This Southern Cream Style Corn recipe is a quick dinner idea that’s both healthy and satisfying. It’s easy to customize to your taste, making it a versatile dish for any meal. Enjoy this taste of summer, any time of year!