Cream style corn is a popular side dish that is commonly served in many American households. It’s a delicious and comforting dish made from corn, cream, and butter, and it’s incredibly easy to make. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook cream style corn on the stove, including the ingredients you’ll need, the equipment required, and a step-by-step guide to preparing this tasty side dish.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients and equipment you’ll need to make cream style corn on the stove.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 cup of frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Optional: hand blender or immersion blender
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Cream Style Corn on the Stove
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment ready, let’s move on to the cooking process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making cream style corn on the stove:
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Whisk in the Flour
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour to make a roux. Cook the roux for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it’s lightly golden and has a nutty aroma.
Step 2: Add the Heavy Cream and Milk
Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Add the Frozen Corn Kernels
Add the frozen corn kernels to the saucepan and stir to combine. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the corn is tender and the mixture has thickened to your liking.
Step 4: Season with Salt, Pepper, and Optional Cheese
Season the cream style corn with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using grated cheddar cheese, stir it in until melted and well combined.
Step 5: Blend the Mixture (Optional)
If you want a smoother cream style corn, you can use a hand blender or immersion blender to blend the mixture until it’s creamy and smooth.
Tips and Variations for Making Cream Style Corn on the Stove
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best cream style corn on the stove:
Tips for Making Cream Style Corn:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh and high-quality ingredients will result in a better-tasting cream style corn.
- Don’t overcook the corn: Cook the corn until it’s tender, but still crisp. Overcooking can make the corn mushy and unappetizing.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to ensure the cream style corn is flavored to your liking.
Variations for Cream Style Corn:
- Add some spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the cream style corn a spicy kick.
- Use different types of corn: You can use fresh corn kernels, canned corn, or even corn from a jar. Each type of corn will give a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Add some smokiness: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to give the cream style corn a smoky flavor.
The Benefits of Cooking Cream Style Corn on the Stove
Cooking cream style corn on the stove has several benefits, including:
Quick and Easy:
Cooking cream style corn on the stove is quick and easy. It takes about 15-20 minutes to make, and it’s a great side dish to serve with a variety of meals.
Customizable:
You can customize the cream style corn to your taste by adding different seasonings, spices, and ingredients. This makes it a great side dish to serve to a crowd with different tastes and preferences.
Cost-Effective:
Cooking cream style corn on the stove is cost-effective. It’s made with affordable ingredients, and it’s a great way to stretch your food budget.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Cream Style Corn on the Stove
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking cream style corn on the stove:
Overcooking the Corn:
Overcooking the corn can make it mushy and unappetizing. Cook the corn until it’s tender, but still crisp.
Not Whisking the Roux:
Not whisking the roux can result in a lumpy cream style corn. Whisk the roux constantly to avoid lumps.
Not Seasoning the Cream Style Corn:
Not seasoning the cream style corn can result in a bland and unappetizing side dish. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to ensure the cream style corn is flavored to your liking.
Conclusion
Cooking cream style corn on the stove is a quick and easy way to make a delicious side dish. With the right ingredients and equipment, you can make a creamy and flavorful cream style corn that’s perfect for serving with a variety of meals. By following the tips and variations outlined in this article, you can make the best cream style corn on the stove and avoid common mistakes. So next time you’re looking for a tasty and comforting side dish, give cooking cream style corn on the stove a try!
What is cream style corn and how does it differ from regular corn?
Cream style corn is a type of corn that has been cooked and pureed to create a creamy texture. It differs from regular corn in that it has been processed to break down the kernels and release their natural starches, resulting in a smooth and velvety consistency. This process also helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the corn.
Cream style corn is often preferred over regular corn because of its rich and indulgent texture. It’s a popular side dish in many parts of the world, particularly in the United States, where it’s often served alongside classic comfort foods like fried chicken and mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of cream style corn also makes it a great base for other dishes, such as soups and casseroles.
What are the ingredients needed to cook cream style corn on the stove?
To cook cream style corn on the stove, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. These include heavy cream or half-and-half, butter, salt, and pepper. You’ll also need frozen or canned corn kernels, which can be found in most supermarkets. If you want to add a bit of extra flavor to your cream style corn, you can also include some grated onion or garlic.
It’s worth noting that you can also use fresh corn kernels if they’re in season and available. However, frozen or canned corn is often just as good and can be used year-round. When choosing a type of cream to use, heavy cream or half-and-half will give you the richest and most indulgent flavor. However, you can also use lighter creams or even milk if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.
How do I cook cream style corn on the stove?
To cook cream style corn on the stove, start by melting some butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the frozen or canned corn kernels and cook until they’re tender, stirring occasionally. Next, add the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it’s heated through and the cream has thickened slightly.
As the cream style corn cooks, be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent the cream from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pan. You can also add some salt and pepper to taste, as well as any other seasonings you like. Once the cream style corn is cooked, serve it hot alongside your favorite dishes.
Can I add other ingredients to my cream style corn?
Yes, you can definitely add other ingredients to your cream style corn to give it extra flavor and texture. Some popular additions include grated onion or garlic, diced bell peppers, and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives. You can also add some grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to give the cream style corn an extra burst of flavor.
When adding other ingredients to your cream style corn, be sure to stir them in well and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can also experiment with different spices and seasonings, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, to give the cream style corn a unique flavor. Just be sure not to overdo it, as too many ingredients can overpower the natural sweetness of the corn.
How do I store leftover cream style corn?
If you have leftover cream style corn, you can store it in the fridge for up to a few days. Simply transfer the cream style corn to an airtight container and refrigerate it until you’re ready to reheat it. When reheating, be sure to stir the cream style corn well and add a bit more cream or milk if it’s become too thick.
You can also freeze leftover cream style corn for later use. Simply transfer the cream style corn to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to a few months. When you’re ready to reheat it, simply thaw the cream style corn overnight in the fridge and reheat it as usual.
Is cream style corn a healthy side dish option?
While cream style corn can be a delicious and comforting side dish, it’s not necessarily the healthiest option. The heavy cream and butter used to make cream style corn are high in calories and saturated fat, which can be a concern for those watching their diet. Additionally, many commercial cream style corn products contain added sugars and preservatives.
However, you can make a healthier version of cream style corn by using lighter creams or milk and reducing the amount of butter used. You can also add some extra nutrients to your cream style corn by including diced vegetables or chopped fresh herbs. Just be sure to balance your cream style corn with other healthier side dishes to keep your diet in check.
Can I make cream style corn ahead of time?
Yes, you can make cream style corn ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. In fact, making cream style corn ahead of time can be a great way to save time during busy meal prep. Simply cook the cream style corn as usual, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to reheat it.
When reheating cream style corn, be sure to stir it well and add a bit more cream or milk if it’s become too thick. You can also reheat cream style corn in the microwave or on the stovetop, depending on your preference. Just be sure to reheat it to a safe internal temperature to prevent foodborne illness.