Corn season is here — 4 easy ways to enjoy summer corn

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Golden and sweet, summer corn is a seasonal treasure in Korea. More than just a snack, corn is packed with nutrients and offers health benefits ranging from improved digestion to better heart health.

From humble boiled ears to creamy soups and savory pancakes, corn is one of the most versatile summer ingredients. With just a few fresh ears and some pantry staples, the taste of summer is on the dinner table in minutes.

Health benefits

Corn is rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber — and it can even support weight loss. Comprised of more than 50 percent water, corn is naturally low in calories and fat. Its high fiber content slows digestion, helping you feel full for longer and reducing overall food intake. The unsaturated fatty acids in corn germ can help remove cholesterol from the blood, while compounds in corn silk may reduce swelling and help regulate blood pressure.

Corn and milk

Corn pairs well with milk, which can help replenish nutritional deficiencies. While corn is low in two essential amino acids — lysine and tryptophan — milk is rich in both. Since essential amino acids cannot be produced by the body, they must be obtained from food. Lysine aids in calcium absorption, while tryptophan helps synthesize serotonin, a hormone that supports mood and may alleviate depression. Milk also makes corn easier to swallow, reducing the risk of choking when eaten alone.

How to choose good corn

Look for corn with fresh, green and glossy husks, and kernels that are tightly packed. A good ear of corn should feel springy when pressed near the center. Avoid corn with dry husks or kernels that have turned from milky white to translucent, as this indicates the kernels are hardening.

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Corn recipes

1. Boiled corn on the cob

The simplest — and arguably most delicious — way to enjoy corn.

Ingredients:

4 fresh ears of corn

1/2 tablespoon salt

2 tablespoons sugar

Place four ears of corn in 2 liters of water and bring it to a boil. Add sugar and salt, then boil for another 40 minutes.

Corn cheese / Captured from 1000recipies YouTube channel

2. Corn cheese

A warm, creamy dish pairs great with bread and is also a beloved "anju" — side dish enjoyed with alcohol — at Korean bars.

Ingredients:

150g corn (or canned sweet corn)

1 tablespoon butter

1 tablespoon mayonnaise

100g mozzarella cheese

Heat butter in a pan. Add corn and stir-fry until most of the moisture is gone. Mix in mayonnaise, then sprinkle mozzarella on top. Cover with a lid and cook until the cheese melts.

Corn pancake / Captured from 1000recipies YouTube channel

3. Corn pancake

It is a good afternoon snack that also pairs well with alcoholic drinks.

Ingredients:

300g corn (or canned sweet corn)

100g frying mix

30ml cold water

1/3 red pepper and green pepper (chopped)

1 tablespoon salt

Mix the frying mix with cold water. Add corn and chopped peppers, season with salt, and stir to combine. Pan-fry until golden brown on both sides.

Corn soup / Captured from 1000recipies YouTube channel

4. Corn soup

While instant corn soup powder is a classic in Korea, homemade corn soup is easy to make and has a richer flavor.

Ingredients:

300g corn (or canned sweet corn)

1 tablespoon butter

1/2 sliced onion

400ml milk

In a pan, sauté corn and onion in butter until most moisture has evaporated. Blend with 100ml of milk, then return to the pot. Add the remaining milk and bring to a gentle boil. Season with salt and pepper if needed and serve with bread.