Get ready to spice up your Cinco de Mayo celebrations with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and vibrancy! Our Spicy Corn and Vegan recipe is not just a side dish; it’s a fiesta on your plate! With its perfect blend of sweet corn, zesty jalapeños, and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to be the star of your table. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something deliciously different, this quick and easy recipe will have your taste buds dancing. So, let’s dive into the world of Mexican cuisine and discover how to make this scrumptious treat that everyone will love!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by measuring and chopping. If using fresh corn, carefully remove kernels from cob. If frozen, thaw corn completely and pat dry with paper towels.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure skillet is evenly heated to prevent corn from sticking.
- Add corn kernels to the hot skillet, spreading them in a single layer. Allow corn to cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden-brown caramelization.
- Stir corn and add minced jalapeño, chili powder, and cumin. Mix thoroughly to distribute spices evenly across the corn.
- Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. The corn should develop a slightly charred, roasted appearance.
- Season with salt to taste, adjusting spice levels according to preference. Reduce heat to low and let flavors meld together for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and immediately sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the corn, gently folding to incorporate.
- Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot as a side dish or as a vibrant topping for tacos, salads, or grain bowls.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Corn: If possible, use fresh corn on the cob for the best flavor. When selecting corn, look for bright green husks and plump kernels. If using frozen corn, ensure it's completely thawed for even cooking.
- Perfectly Caramelize: To achieve that beautiful golden-brown color, spread the corn in a single layer in the skillet and resist the urge to stir too soon. This allows the natural sugars in the corn to caramelize beautifully.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can deseed the jalapeño or use less of it. Conversely, for an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a hotter chili powder.
- Fresh Cilantro: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro! It adds a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try substituting with fresh parsley for a different but equally delicious flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This spicy corn is incredibly versatile! Serve it as a side dish, or use it as a topping for tacos, salads, or grain bowls to add a pop of color and flavor to your meals.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the corn mixture in advance and reheat it just before serving. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or large gatherings!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
