Baby Corn

What Is Baby Corn?

Baby corn is the miniature cob of corn (Zea mays) harvested very young, before or right at the start of pollination. This early harvest prevents the kernels from hardening and turns the entire cob into an edible, crunchy vegetable.

Common in Southeast Asian cuisine, baby corn is mostly found canned or pickled in markets in Turkey.

Nutritional Values of Baby Corn

Baby corn is a low-calorie vegetable; according to common reference values, 100 grams contains approximately 25 kcal of energy and 2 g of fiber. Its starch and sugar content are notably lower than mature corn, since the kernels have not yet developed.

What Are the Benefits of Baby Corn?

With its low calorie count and crunchy texture, baby corn can add bulk and fiber to salad and stir-fry recipes as part of a balanced diet.

This information is general; baby corn is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Baby Corn?

Fresh baby corn is yellow-cream in color, firm and smooth; for canned baby corn, attention should be paid to the liquid being clear and the cobs not being broken.

• The cob should have a firm, non-brittle texture
• The color should be vivid yellow-cream; darkened tips should be avoided
• For canned versions, the expiration date and clarity of the liquid should be checked

How to Store Baby Corn?

Fresh baby corn can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days. Canned or jarred baby corn should be consumed within 2-3 days once opened, kept in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

Using Baby Corn in the Kitchen

Baby corn is most often used in Far Eastern-style stir-fries, salads and pickles; since it cooks quickly, it is preferably added at the last moment to preserve its crunch.

How to Make Vegetable Baby Corn Stir-Fry?

Baby corn is stir-fried briefly over high heat together with bell pepper and carrot; it is flavored with soy sauce and garlic and served hot.

Baby Corn Pickles

Raw baby corns are placed in a pickling brine prepared with vinegar, salt and spices, and left to sit for a few weeks to become crunchy pickles.

Which Recipes Use Baby Corn?

Vegetable stir-fry, Asian-style noodle dishes and mixed pickles are among the recipes baby corn is most often used in.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is baby corn good for?

Baby corn is a low-calorie, fibrous vegetable; it can be considered part of a balanced diet. It is a food; it does not claim to treat disease.

What is the difference between baby corn and regular corn?

Baby corn is a very early-harvested form of mature corn; the whole cob is edible, whereas with regular corn only the kernels are consumed and the starch content is much higher.

Is baby corn eaten raw?

Yes, fresh baby corn can be added raw to salads after thorough washing; canned baby corn can be consumed directly.

Is baby corn grown in Turkey?

Baby corn is not commercially widespread in Turkey; the ones found on market shelves are generally imported canned or jarred products.

How is baby corn cooked?

Brief stir-frying, steaming or adding it to soup at the last minute are the most suitable methods; long cooking reduces its crunchiness.