Europeans didn’t like corn until Columbus first saw it in the ocean blue. Corn is referred to as maize in Europe, which means “maize.” Although most Americans toss all but corn kernels, the plant has other uses.
The husks are used for tamales, the stalk is suitable for animal feed, and the cobs thicken stocks. Some people also make medicinal teas out of corn silk.
Sweet corn grows in a rainbow of colors, from yellow to purple, and it can also be white, brown, or multicolored.
Some of the most common types are yellow and white. Sweet corn with creamy and white shells is called “Silver Queen,” while “Tuxedo” is a yellow variety with 8-inch ears. “Temptation” is a type that’s commonly eaten on the cob. It has little 7-inch ears, and it has bi-colored kernels.
Now, if you’re looking for where to buy fresh corn on the cob near me, this article is for you.
The Best Way to Choose Corn
Look for corn that’s not dried out, has tight and green husks, and has brown ends poking out from the top. This indicates that the silk has been moist.
Look for small holes in the husk, which are usually wormholes. Make sure that the ear is squeezed from the bottom up.
The corn should feel firm and round, and the outer surface should be filled out from end to end.
What’s the Sweetest Corn Variety?
Most yellow corn varieties are prevalent, and it’s often argued that they’re sweeter than bicolor or white.
But, according to Westerfield, the sweetness of this type of corn is determined by its genetics and the environment.
One of the common types of sweet corn is the su gene, which produces a smooth and creamy consistency.
The SE, or sugar enhanced, gene adds more sweetness to the corn’s surface. Supersweet corn, also known as Sh2, can stay even sweeter for longer.
According to Westerfield, there are also hybrid varieties that have all three genes.
These include triple sweet, a type of corn that’s next-level in terms of flavor, sugar retention, and texture. One of these is the famous “Mirai.”
If the soil conditions are not good, or if the harvest is delayed, the corn can develop issues that can negatively affect its quality.
Where to Buy Fresh Corn on the Cob Near Me?
There are several places to buy fresh corn on the cob near you. These are some of the popular locations:
1. Shenot Farm Market
Established in 1865, the farm and market north of Pittsburgh is known for its sustainable practices. They are open year-round and produce various fruits and vegetables.
The Shenot Family owns and operates a farm of over a hundred acres.
They are known for their high-quality and locally-made cheese, meats, and other products. They also have some of the best fresh corn on the cob.
They also offer various tours and activities, such as hayrides and pumpkin patch tours. The farm uses sustainable practices that emphasize land stewardship.
2. Pittsburgh Barbecue Company
This establishment is known for its mouth-watering barbecue and fresh corn on the cob. Their dishes are delicious and pocket-friendly. You should consider giving them a try.
3. Janoski’s Farm and Greenhouse
Having a local farm with various seasonal fruits and vegetables is excellent. Janoski’s has a dedicated area for vegetables and fruits; they are always stocked.
During our last visit, they had a wide variety of vegetables and fruits, such as broccoli, spinach, fresh corn, and strawberries. In addition, they also have a variety of dairy, bread, and canned goods.
The greenhouse at Janoski’s is also very impressive, as it reasonably priced many healthy plants.
The farm’s produce section is impressive, as most items are made from local ingredients. The staff is amicable and helpful, and the restrooms are spotless.
Outside, there’s a pond, and Janoski’s has an authentic cabin that used to be on the Lincoln Highway.
4. Tako
The restaurant, known for its Japanese and Mexican fusion dishes, was founded by Richard DeShantz and Tolgasevdik.
It features a dark and moody vibe and a selection of tequila and mezcal. You can get some of the best fresh corn on the cob here.
The restaurant was one of the first establishments in the Pittsburgh cultural area to introduce modern cuisine to the site.
It was also one of the first businesses to renovate some of the area’s classic architecture. The Richard DeShantz group now has over ten restaurants.
The restaurant’s interior is impressive, as it features a large display window allowing people to see the kitchen. The space is also very spacious, and it features a variety of artistic elements.
Unfortunately, the restaurant has two levels, and it features limited seating. Although it has wood bench-style seating, it doesn’t have the same communal style as other places.
The restaurant’s artistic renovation took a lot of time and thought, and it should be noted that it may be challenging to accommodate a whole house.
The servers use the stairs shared with the other diners to get to the second floor. It can be awkward sometimes, but it’s expected since the building is ancient and has many characters.
Nutrition Facts of Corn
Corn is a starchy vegetable, which makes it high in calories and fat compared to other vegetables. One cup of cooked corn has about 130 calories and 1.8 grams of fat.
It’s also a good source of vitamin C, thiamin, potassium, protein, and fiber. It can help lower your risk of heart disease and diabetes.
It’s also filled with various phytochemicals known to help prevent cancer and heart disease. Some of these include malic acid, saponins, and lutein.
In addition, it has yellow carotenoids, which are antioxidants that can protect the eyes.
What to Do With Corn
Besides being fresh, corn also comes in various forms, such as frozen, canned, and creamed.
Preparing this dish is straightforward, as just a touch of hot sauce and butter will make it incredibly delicious.
Our favorite ways to prepare it include steaming, boiling, and grilling. Another favorite way to eat this vegetable is with a corn salad.
You can keep your local farm-fresh corn by either preserving it in the form of canned or frozen corn. In the case of canned corn, it’s usually preserved as whole or creamed.
Creamed corn, on the other hand, is a popular method of enjoying this vegetable, but make sure to avoid high-fat and calorie ingredients such as butter and milk. If you’re planning on maintaining it, let it cool down first.
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