What To Know
- Roast the corn kernels in the oven before adding them to the butter for a deeper flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the butter mix for a kick.
- With its vibrant color, creamy texture, and sweet, savory flavor, sweet corn butter is a versatile condiment that will add a touch of summer to any dish.
Summer is synonymous with sweet corn on the cob, but what if you could take that deliciousness to the next level? Enter sweet corn butter: a creamy, flavorful spread that will elevate any meal. Learn how to make sweet corn butter in this comprehensive guide.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 6 ears of fresh sweet corn
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Shuck and Remove Corn Kernels
- Remove the husks and silk from the corn ears.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the kernels off the cob.
- You should have about 3 cups of kernels.
Cook the Corn Kernels
- In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the corn kernels and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
- Remove the corn kernels from the heat and set aside to cool.
Make the Corn Butter
- In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, cooled corn kernels, basil, chives, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat until smooth and well combined.
Chill and Enjoy
- Transfer the corn butter to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
- The chilled corn butter will be firm enough to spread easily.
- Serve with grilled chicken, steak, or your favorite bread.
Variations on Sweet Corn Butter
- Roasted Corn Butter: Roast the corn kernels in the oven before adding them to the butter for a deeper flavor.
- Spicy Corn Butter: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the butter mix for a kick.
- Garlic Corn Butter: Mince a clove of garlic and add it to the butter along with the other ingredients.
How to Store Sweet Corn Butter
- Refrigerate the sweet corn butter in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freeze the butter for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Tips for Making the Best Sweet Corn Butter
- Use fresh, sweet corn for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the corn kernels. They should be tender but still have a bit of a bite.
- Let the corn kernels cool before adding them to the butter. This will prevent the butter from melting too quickly.
- Season the butter to taste. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Meals with Sweet Corn Butter
With its vibrant color, creamy texture, and sweet, savory flavor, sweet corn butter is a versatile condiment that will add a touch of summer to any dish. Whether you’re slathering it on grilled meats, vegetables, or bread, this homemade spread is sure to become a family favorite.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I use frozen corn kernels to make sweet corn butter?
A: Yes, you can use frozen corn kernels, but fresh corn kernels will yield a better flavor.
Q: How long can I store sweet corn butter in the refrigerator?
A: Sweet corn butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Q: Can I freeze sweet corn butter?
A: Yes, you can freeze sweet corn butter for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use different herbs in my sweet corn butter?
A: Yes, you can use any fresh herbs you like. Some good options include parsley, cilantro, or thyme.
Q: Can I make sweet corn butter in a food processor?
A: Yes, you can use a food processor to make sweet corn butter. However, be careful not to overprocess the butter, or it will become too soft.
