15-Minute Charred Blackened Corn

The fresh flavor and versatility of corn are hard to deny. But sometimes, it needs to be spiced up a little bit to meet the flavor of your dish or to spice up the ordinary.

Enter blackened, charred corn. This recipe is so easy; in a nutshell, you only need to melt butter, add seasoning, toss in your frozen corn kernels, and saute. How is that for a simple side dish recipe?

But why limit yourself to a side dish when you can add charred corn to just about any dish to spice it up? In our house, we add it to salads, tacos, fish, chicken, and homemade Chipotle bowls to spice up the flavor.

Ingredients

Frozen Sweet Corn Kernels - You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. I prefer to use frozen, except in summer when fresh corn peaks and the flavor is amazing.

Blackened Seasoning - Use the blackened seasoning of your choice. I use a premade mix. If you prefer your own mix, I have included a recipe below. It is super easy.

Butter - Two tablespoons of the butter or plant-based butter of your choice.

Instructions

Step One: Prep -

Preheat a large deep skillet or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter/plant-based butter in the hot skillet, sprinkle the blackened seasoning on the butter, and stir, sprinkle. Let the spices simmer for one minute.

Step Two: Cook -

Add the corn kernels and toss the kernels in the melted butter to evenly coat each kernel. Leave the corn to cook undisturbed for 3 - 5 minutes, stir, and repeat until the corn is golden brown. Remove the charred corn from the skillet and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Optional Topping Ideas

Garnishing adds an extra flavor dimension and pops of color. While garnishes are optional, here are a few ideas.

• Dash of cayenne pepper
• Diced bell peppers - use red, yellow, or green bell peppers
• Feta cheese
• Fresh cilantro
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Sliced green onions
• Sliced jalapeno peppers
• Sprinkle of lime juice

Homemade Blackened Seasoning

Making homemade blackened seasoning is an easy spice blend using pantry staple spices. To make this blend at home, instead of using a premade seasoning, all you have to do is mix the following seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt - use table, sea, or kosher salt

In a small bowl, whisk all the ingredients together. Store any leftover seasoning in an airtight container in a dark place.

FAQS

What is blackened corn? Corn has been charred on the outside, giving it a smoky flavor and slightly crispy texture. This recipe is often associated with Southern cooking.

How do you store leftover blackened corn? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

How do I make blackened corn using fresh corn cobs? Yes, you can. I recommend oven-roasting or grilling corn on the cob instead of cooking it on the stovetop. Here. is how you do it:

Step One: Use two tablespoons of olive oil instead of butter in the recipe. Mix the blackened spices with the olive oil. Rub the oil over the ears.

Step Two: Place the corn on the hot grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the char is your desired color.

Step Three: Remove from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice the kernels off the cobs and serve as desired.

Recipe

Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies