Marsha’s Way of Making Cream Style Corn

There’s something about creamed corn that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. I can almost smell the comforting aroma filling the air as she stirred a pot on the stove, a simple meal transforming into an experience. It wasn’t just the taste, but the warmth and love that she poured into every dish, and this creamed corn recipe, perfected by Marsha, captures that essence perfectly. It’s a reminder of home, family, and the simple joys of life, all wrapped up in a spoonful of creamy, sweet corn.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: About 4 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 15 ounces whole kernel corn (fresh or frozen also can be used)
• 2 tablespoons self-rising flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup whipping cream
• 1/2 cube chicken bouillon cube, crushed (vegetable bouillon for vegetarian option)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 dash of crushed red pepper seasoning (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
• Stirring spoon

Instructions

1. Begin by draining the can of whole kernel corn thoroughly.
2. Transfer the drained corn to a saucepan placed on the stove. Set the burner to medium-high heat.
3. Sprinkle the self-rising flour and the crushed chicken bouillon cube (or vegetable bouillon for a vegetarian version) evenly over the corn.
4. Stir the mixture well to ensure the corn is evenly coated with the flour and bouillon. This step is important as it helps to thicken the creamed corn later on.
5. Increase the heat slightly. Add the milk, whipping cream, salt, pepper, and the optional dash of crushed red pepper seasoning to the saucepan.
6. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to combine everything. Make sure the crushed bouillon is fully dissolved.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. It’s crucial to stir continuously to prevent the flour from clumping and sticking to the bottom of the pan.
8. Continue to cook the creamed corn, stirring constantly, until the flour thickens the milk and cream into a rich, creamy sauce. This should take just a few minutes. The mixture should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
9. Once the creamed corn has reached the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy the warmth and flavor of this homemade dish!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Fresh or Frozen Corn: While canned corn is convenient, using fresh or frozen corn kernels will elevate the flavor profile of your creamed corn. If using frozen, thaw it slightly before adding it to the saucepan.
• Self-Rising Flour Substitute: If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining 1 cup all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
• Bouillon Alternative: If you prefer not to use bouillon, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor. Start with about 1/4 cup and adjust to taste.
• Adjusting Thickness: If your creamed corn is too thick, add a splash more milk or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, continue cooking it for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens to your liking.
• Spice It Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce instead of, or in addition to, the crushed red pepper flakes.
• Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter creamed corn, add a teaspoon of sugar or honey.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This creamed corn is best served hot and fresh, as a comforting side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or vegetarian entrees. It also makes a delicious addition to casseroles or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Leftover creamed corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency. Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	175 kcal	9%
Total Fat	8g	12%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Cholesterol	25mg	8%
Sodium	519mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	25g	8%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Sugars	3g	N/A
Protein	5g	10%

Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk and whipping cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or coconut cream. Use a vegetable bouillon cube to maintain the vegetarian aspect.
• Vegan: Follow the dairy-free suggestions, and ensure the bouillon cube is vegetable-based.
• Cheesy Creamed Corn: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan cheese to the creamed corn during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
• Creamed Corn with Herbs: Stir in fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or thyme for added flavor and freshness.
• Spicy Southwest Creamed Corn: Add diced jalapenos, chili powder, and cumin to the creamed corn for a spicy Southwest-inspired variation.
• Bacon Creamed Corn: Cook bacon until crispy, crumble it, and add it to the creamed corn for a smoky and savory flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Frozen corn works just as well, and some even prefer its fresher flavor. Just thaw it slightly before adding it to the saucepan.

Q: How do I prevent the flour from clumping?
A: The key is to stir constantly, especially when you first add the flour and milk. This ensures the flour is evenly distributed and doesn’t clump together.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can make it a few hours ahead of time. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency.

Q: Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
A: Yes, simply substitute the chicken bouillon cube with a vegetable bouillon cube. This will maintain the delicious flavor while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the creamed corn?
A: Absolutely! Diced red bell peppers, onions, or even zucchini can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Add them when you add the corn to the saucepan.

Final Thoughts

Marsha’s Cream Style Corn isn’t just a recipe; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings people together. I encourage you to try this simple yet flavorful dish and share it with your loved ones. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to make it your own. And, of course, I’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you add to this classic recipe. Enjoy!