FROM THE FROZEN RAW VEGETABLES CATEGORY - CORN

Sweet corn, a versatile and beloved ingredient worldwide, is more than just a seasonal vegetable. With a rich history, corn has been cultivated and cherished for generations, serving as a staple food in many cultures. Whether enjoyed fresh, boiled, or grilled, corn delights our taste buds and offers numerous nutritional benefits.

In this recipe, we will explore how to freeze fresh corn to preserve its flavors and nutrients. It is a simple and effective method, ideal for having a healthy vegetable on hand throughout the year. The total preparation time is about 30 minutes, and this recipe will yield enough portions to fill your freezer.

Ingredients

- 12 ears of fresh, tender, and milky corn
- Plastic bags for freezing

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Boiling time: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6 (2 halves of ear per serving)

Step 1: Selecting the corn

Carefully choose the corn ears. Look for fresh corn with a vibrant appearance and no spots or defects. The color of the kernels should be uniform, and the silk should be moist and green. Fresh corn has a sweet and creamy taste, perfect for freezing.

Step 2: Preparing the ears

Remove the leaves and silk from the ears, taking care to remove all fibers. If you wish, you can save the silk to dry, as it can be used later for tea, having beneficial properties for the kidneys and circulation. Once cleaned, the ears can be left whole or cut in half, depending on your preferences.

Step 3: Boiling the corn

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. If you want to keep the vibrant color and sweetness of the corn, add a little salt to the water. Place the corn ears in the water and boil for 20 minutes. Ensure they are completely covered with water for even cooking.

Step 4: Cooling and freezing

After the corn is boiled, remove the ears and let them cool on a rack. Once cooled, divide them into portions. Place two ears in each plastic bag, ensuring you tie them well or vacuum seal them. This step will prevent ice crystals from forming and keep the corn fresh and tasty.

Step 5: Serving and suggestions

Freezing corn will allow you to use it in various dishes throughout the year. Whether you want to add it to salads, soups, or pizza, frozen corn will bring a touch of freshness and sweetness to your meals. A delicious option is to add it to a bean salad or serve it as a side dish with grilled meat.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Corn is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, B vitamins, and antioxidants. A serving of corn (approximately 100g) contains about 86 calories and is rich in essential nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet. Eating corn can help maintain digestive health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I freeze raw corn?
- While it is possible, freezing boiled corn ensures better texture and flavor.

2. How long can frozen corn be kept?
- Frozen corn can be stored for 8-12 months in the freezer.

3. How can I use frozen corn?
- Frozen corn is perfect for salads, soups, stews, or as a side dish for various meals.

4. Are there variations of this recipe?
- You can add spices or herbs to the boiling water to infuse the corn with additional flavors.

A personal note

Remember that cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to add a personal touch. Experiment with various spices or add a drizzle of olive oil and lemon before serving the boiled corn for a fresh and invigorating taste.

Enjoy the delights of fresh corn, whether preparing it for a family meal or a gathering with friends. Freezing this versatile ingredient will allow you to savor the taste of summer in every season!