Sweet Corn

Sweet corn is a vegetable that is widely grown in Nebraska. Sweet corn comes in many different varieties, some kernels may be white while some are yellow. The outer green leaves are called 'husks' and the fine strings inside the husk are called 'silk'. The husk, stem and silks must be removed before the corn can be rinsed and cooked. Removing the husk and silks is called 'shucking'.

HOW DO I MAKE A GOOD SELECTION?

Choose ears of sweet corn that have green husks and fresh silk. Avoid any damaged or dried out sweet corn cobs. The ends of sweet corn might be shriveled, but this can be removed by cutting off this portion.

WHAT IS THE PROPER STORAGE?

Store sweet corn in plastic bags in the husk in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. If husk is removed, store for 1-2 days in a plastic bag.

WHY SHOULD I EAT THIS?

Sweet corn is a good source of fiber which helps provide a feeling of fullness and is important for digestion. Sweet corn also has potassium, which helps regulate fluid balance and muscle contractions. It also has B Vitamins, which help the body make energy from the foods we eat.

HOW COULD I USE THIS?

Cook sweet corn in the microwave, on the stove, roasted in the oven or on the grill
Add fresh sweet corn to cornbread batter before baking
Add to salsas or dips
Make sweet corn fritters as a side dish
Add sweet corn to soups and stews
Add to a pasta salad
Top a salad with corn
Add to tacos or quesadillas
Make a sweet corn relish to put on top of fish, chicken or another protein source