From farm to table: usda’s street corn recipe for the best backyard bash

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with our authentic USDA street corn recipe. This beloved dish, a staple at street fairs and festivals, is now easily recreated in your own kitchen. With its tender kernels, creamy sauce, and tantalizing seasonings, this street corn is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 6 ears of corn, husked and silked
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Grill the Corn: Grill the ears of corn over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
2. Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Spread the Sauce: Once the corn is grilled, spread the sauce evenly over the kernels.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional cilantro, grated Parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for the Best USDA Street Corn:

• Choose Fresh Corn: For the most flavorful street corn, use fresh corn that is in season.
• Grill the Corn Perfectly: Grill the corn over medium-high heat to achieve a slight char while keeping the kernels tender.
• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the taste of your street corn. Use real mayonnaise, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese.
• Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more chili powder for a spicier corn or more cumin for a more earthy flavor.
• Serve Immediately: Street corn is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve it immediately after preparing to preserve its vibrant flavors.

Variations on the USDA Street Corn Recipe:

• Elote Loco: Add crumbled cotija cheese, chopped tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños for a more authentic Mexican street corn experience.
• Spicy Street Corn: Increase the amount of chili powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Street Corn: Add an extra dollop of sour cream or mayonnaise to make the sauce even creamier.
• Grilled Street Corn: Instead of boiling the corn, grill it over medium-high heat to infuse it with a smoky flavor.
• Roasted Street Corn: Roast the corn in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes for a slightly caramelized flavor.

Health Benefits of Street Corn:

• High in Fiber: Corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which helps regulate digestion and promote satiety.
• Rich in Vitamins: Street corn is a good source of vitamins A, C, and B vitamins, essential for overall health and well-being.
• Contains Antioxidants: Corn contains antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect against eye damage and age-related macular degeneration.

USDA Street Corn: An Affordable and Versatile Dish:

USDA street corn is not only delicious but also an affordable and versatile dish. It can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal. It is perfect for picnics, potlucks, and summer gatherings.

In a nutshell:

Embrace the vibrant flavors of summer with our USDA street corn recipe. Its tender kernels, creamy sauce, and tantalizing seasonings will make it a beloved dish in your household. Experiment with different variations to create your own unique street corn experience. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a standalone snack, USDA street corn is sure to satisfy your taste buds and bring a touch of summer joy to your table.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use frozen corn for street corn?
A: Yes, you can use frozen corn, but it may not be as flavorful as fresh corn. Thaw the corn before grilling or roasting.
Q: How do I store leftover street corn?
A: Leftover street corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make street corn ahead of time?
A: You can grill the corn and make the sauce ahead of time. However, assemble the street corn just before serving to keep it fresh.
Q: What are some other toppings I can add to street corn?
A: Try adding crumbled bacon, chopped avocado, or diced tomatoes for additional flavor and texture.
Q: How do I make street corn vegan?
A: Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based yogurt. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.