Discover the easy trick to achieve thick, luxurious creamed corn without cornstarch
What To Know
- Whisk the flour or tapioca flour into a little water to form a slurry before adding it to the corn to prevent lumps.
- Cooking creamed corn on low heat for a longer period allows the natural starches in the corn to release, thickening the dish.
- A roux, a mixture of equal parts flour and butter, can be used to thicken creamed corn.
Creamed corn, a beloved side dish, often requires thickening to achieve the desired creamy consistency. While cornstarch is a common thickening agent, it can sometimes leave an unpleasant aftertaste. This blog post explores alternative methods to thicken creamed corn without relying on cornstarch.
1. Puree a Portion of the Corn
One effective way to thicken creamed corn is by pureeing a portion of it. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree about 1/3 of the cooked corn kernels. This will create a smooth, creamy base that will thicken the remaining corn.
2. Use Flour or Tapioca Flour
Flour and tapioca flour are gluten-free alternatives to cornstarch. They can be used in small amounts (1-2 tablespoons per cup of corn) to thicken creamed corn. Whisk the flour or tapioca flour into a little water to form a slurry before adding it to the corn to prevent lumps.
3. Add Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes can be a surprising but effective thickener for creamed corn. They add a subtle flavor and creamy texture. Simply mash 1-2 boiled potatoes and stir them into the corn.
4. Incorporate Cheese
Grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, can also thicken creamed corn. The cheese will melt and create a rich, creamy sauce. Use about 1/2 cup of grated cheese per cup of corn.
5. Use Heavy Cream or Evaporated Milk
Heavy cream or evaporated milk can add richness and thickness to creamed corn. Stir in 1/4-1/2 cup of heavy cream or evaporated milk until the desired consistency is achieved.
6. Cook on Low Heat
Cooking creamed corn on low heat for a longer period allows the natural starches in the corn to release, thickening the dish. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
7. Add a Roux
A roux, a mixture of equal parts flour and butter, can be used to thicken creamed corn. Make a roux by melting butter in a saucepan and whisking in flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually add it to the corn while stirring constantly.
Creative Conclusion: Corn-tastic Thickening Delights
With these alternative methods, you can create a deliciously creamy creamed corn without the need for cornstarch. Experiment with different techniques to find the one that best suits your taste preferences. Elevate your next corn-based dish with these creative and effective thickening solutions.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Can I use baking powder to thicken creamed corn?
No, baking powder is not a suitable thickener for creamed corn. It will alter the flavor and texture of the dish.
2. Can I thicken creamed corn with egg yolks?
Yes, egg yolks can be used as a thickener for creamed corn. However, they should be tempered by whisking them with a small amount of the hot creamed corn before adding them to the entire mixture.
3. Can I thicken creamed corn with bread crumbs?
Yes, bread crumbs can be used to thicken creamed corn. Soak them in milk before adding them to the corn to prevent a grainy texture.