UNITED STATES—Corn is a vegetable that in my opinion is not really a vegetable. The reason for that is the fact that the taste is so sweet. When we think of vegetables, rarely do we think of them tasting good for us. Usually, they are bitter, have a taste that is difficult to get past, but not corn.
Sweet corn in particular is a mutation which has an effect on sugar turning into starch in the endosperm of the corn’s kernel. This is a veggie that is best eaten at its peak when it’s fresh, otherwise the flavor punch that so many of us are used to ceases to exist. It’s a staple vegetable during the summer months when it’s at its prime. The husk protects the corn until its ready to be cooked. It can be fried, boiled, steamed or grilled; grilled is a favorite of mine.
On a nutritional side, sweet corn contains an abundant source of water, folate, magnesium, potassium and niacin. If you’re not a fan of eating corn on its own, the veggie can be used to create some unique dishes. It can be used to create a corn salsa, cornbread and a fave of mine chicken corn chowder. Trust me you won’t have a problem getting your kids to eat this tasty veggie.
By LaDale Anderson
