Boiled corn is a simple dish, but with the addition of baking soda and salt, it can be taken to the next level. These two ingredients enhance the natural sweetness and tenderness of the corn, making it a more delicious and nutritious treat.
Corn is a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support digestive health. Carbohydrates provide energy, while fiber prevents constipation, reduces cholesterol levels, and promotes heart health.
While boiling corn may seem straightforward, there are a few tricks to making it exceptionally tasty. Here’s how to do it right:
Choosing the Best Corn:
Start by selecting fresh corn, ensuring you don’t strip away all the husks. Leaving a few layers helps prevent the kernels from bursting during boiling due to excess water absorption. Rinse the corn, then cover it with water in a pot.
Add a teaspoon of baking soda, cover the pot, and bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and continue simmering for 20-30 minutes.
Just before serving, add a suitable amount of salt to taste. Finally, cover the pot and boil for another 20 minutes before turning off the heat and fishing out the perfectly cooked corn.
There’s wisdom in the old saying, “add salt to enhance sweetness.” Salt brings out the natural sweetness of the corn, but use it sparingly to avoid making the corn too salty.
Baking soda, a mild alkali, neutralizes acids. A small amount can release bound niacin (vitamin B3) in corn, converting it into free niacin, which our bodies can readily absorb.
Additionally, baking soda accelerates the ripening process, enhancing the corn’s color, making it brighter and glossier. It also intensifies the corn’s flavor and sweetness while contributing to its tender texture. As with salt, a little goes a long way with baking soda to avoid bitterness.
This method also works well for similar grains like millet and brown rice, enhancing their taste and nutritional value. For an extra touch of sweetness, you can add a small piece of sugarcane to the boiling water. With these tips, you’ll be boiling corn like a pro and enjoying a perfectly delicious and healthy treat.