Let’s talk about the cutest veggie in the produce aisle – corn baby! Yep, that tiny little corn you often see in stir-fries, salads, and soups. It may be small, but this mini version of sweet corn is bursting with versatility and texture. Whether you’re tossing it into a stir-fry, pickling it, or even grilling it for a fun side dish, baby corn has got you covered.
I mean, who wouldn’t want to add some cute, bite-sized corn to their meals? Plus, it’s super easy to cook with and pairs with just about everything. Let’s dive into what makes this little veggie so special and how you can use it to elevate your dishes.
One more delicious recipe from corn: Trader Joe's Corn Ribs
What Is Baby Corn?
Despite its popularity, many people often wonder, what is baby corn exactly, and why isn’t it as widely available as mature corn? The answer lies in its labor-intensive harvesting process, which is why it’s often found in specialty stores or canned in international food aisles.
Contrary to what you might think, it’s not a different species of corn. It’s simply regular sweet corn harvested early, before the kernels mature. That’s why it’s so tiny and tender! You can eat the whole thing—yep, even the cob, which is soft and slightly crunchy.
It’s commonly found in Asian cuisine, especially stir-fries, but don’t let that limit you. You can grill, roast, pickle, or even toss baby corn into your favorite pasta or salad for a fun twist. Plus, it's low in calories, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Ingredients Used to Cook with Corn Baby
Whether you’re making a quick stir-fry or a more elaborate dish, here’s what you’ll need to make a simple and tasty baby corn recipe:
- Baby corn: 1 can or 1 cup fresh baby corn (drain if using canned)
- Garlic cloves: 3, minced
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp (for sautéing)
- Soy sauce: 1 tbsp (adds a savory umami flavor)
- Oyster sauce: 1 tbsp (optional but gives a rich, deep flavor)
- Salt & pepper: To taste
- Chili flakes: 1/2 tsp (for a little heat, optional)
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp (a fresh zing to brighten the dish)
How to Cook with Corn Baby
Ready to whip up something tasty with corn baby? Let’s do it!
- Prep the corn baby. If you’re using fresh corn baby, give it a quick rinse. For canned, drain and rinse under cold water to remove any excess salt or preservatives.
- Sauté the garlic. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the corn baby. Toss the corn baby into the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. You want it to get a little color and crisp up slightly.
- Add the sauces. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and stir until the corn is evenly coated. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Season and finish. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if you like a bit of spice). Finally, squeeze in the lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish. Serve hot, either as a side dish or tossed into your favorite stir-fry or salad!
And that’s it—Corn Baby is your kitchen's new MVP! Need a speedy side dish or a playful addition to your stir-fry? Corn baby's got you covered with its gentle flavor and satisfying crunch. And let's face it, those tiny cobs are just too cute to resist! Next grocery run, don't forget to snag some fresh or canned corn baby and watch your dishes transform into something truly special.
Quick Cooking Recipe
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Author: Jen Sharpin | So Damn Delish
- Yield: 2-3 servings of crunchy goodness
Explore corn baby with So Damn Delish! Tiny, crunchy, and surprisingly versatile. From stir-fries to salads, discover delicious ways to enjoy this low-cal gem.
Ingredient:
- 1 cup corn baby (fresh or canned)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
- Rinse the corn baby if using fresh, or drain and rinse canned corn.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add corn baby and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly golden.
- Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, chili flakes, and finish with lemon juice.
Notes:
- Corn baby is often found canned, but if you can get your hands on fresh baby corn, go for it! It has an extra crispness that’s worth trying.
- For a different twist, try grilling corn baby with some olive oil and herbs, or even adding it to a veggie stir-fry with broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots.
Delicious Baby Corn Dishes to Try at Home
Looking for ways to incorporate baby corn dishes into your meals? One classic use is in stir-fries, where baby corn adds both texture and color. Pair it with bell peppers, snap peas, and your favorite protein for a quick and healthy meal. Another popular dish is baby corn curry, a creamy, spiced dish that highlights the subtle flavor of baby corn.
For something different, try roasting baby corn with herbs, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. This preparation transforms it into a crispy, flavorful snack or side. With its adaptability and mild taste, baby corn is a simple addition to elevate your cooking.
Rediscover the simple pleasures of cooking at home with So Damn Delish! Let me guide you through creating delicious, wholesome meals that are easy on your wallet and your taste buds, like how I did with this Corn Baby recipe!
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All About Corn Baby: What It Is and How to Use It in Dishes
Explore corn baby with So Damn Delish! Tiny, crunchy, and surprisingly versatile. From stir-fries to salads, discover delicious ways to enjoy this low-cal gem.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings of crunchy goodness 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup corn baby (fresh or canned)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Rinse the corn baby if using fresh, or drain and rinse canned corn.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add corn baby and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly golden.
- Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, chili flakes, and finish with lemon juice.
Notes
- Corn baby is often found canned, but if you can get your hands on fresh baby corn, go for it! It has an extra crispness that’s worth trying.
- For a different twist, try grilling corn baby with some olive oil and herbs, or even adding it to a veggie stir-fry with broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dishes
