Are you ready to take your corn on the cob to the next level? Look no further than Crazy Corn! This tantalizing recipe combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the rich flavors of mayo, cajun spice, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter for a dish that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or hosting a summer soirée, Crazy Corn is sure to be a hit with family and friends. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this delicious dish, along with tips, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions. Let’s get cooking!
Introduction:
Crazy Corn is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional corn on the cob. By adding a few simple ingredients like mayo, cajun spice, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter, you can transform ordinary corn into an extraordinary culinary delight. This dish is perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or anytime you want to elevate your side dish game. Plus, it’s easy to customize to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 6 ears of corn (shucked)
- Mayonnaise
- Cajun spice
- Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- Melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using an indoor grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
2. Prepare the Corn:
- Shuck the ears of corn to remove the husks and silk.
- Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk strands.
3. Grill the Corn:
- Place the shucked corn directly on the preheated grill.
- Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is tender and slightly charred in spots.
4. Prepare the Toppings:
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and cajun spice to taste. Start with 1/4 cup of mayonnaise and 1-2 teaspoons of cajun spice, then adjust to your preference.
- In another small bowl, combine shredded Parmesan cheese with melted butter.
5. Coat the Corn:
- Once the corn is done grilling, use a basting brush to coat each ear of corn with the seasoned mayonnaise mixture.
- Next, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and melted butter mixture over the mayo-coated corn, ensuring each ear is evenly coated.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the Crazy Corn to a serving platter.
- Serve immediately while still warm, and watch as your guests devour this delicious dish!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cajun spice to your liking. For a milder flavor, use less spice, or amp up the heat by adding more.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, for unique flavor combinations.
- Grilling Options: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also boil or steam the corn until tender, then finish it under the broiler for a charred effect before adding the toppings.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Mayonnaise: Opt for a keto-friendly mayonnaise made with avocado oil or olive oil.
- Parmesan Cheese: Stick with Parmesan cheese, as it is naturally low in carbs. Be mindful of the amount you use to stay within your carb limit.
Low-Carb Version:
- Mayonnaise Substitute: Replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lower-carb option.
- Cajun Spice Blend: Make your own cajun spice blend using low-carb ingredients like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh? A: While fresh corn is preferred for its sweet flavor and crisp texture, you can use frozen corn kernels if fresh corn is not available. Simply thaw the corn before grilling or cooking.
Q: Can I prepare Crazy Corn ahead of time? A: While Crazy Corn is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can prepare the toppings in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to use. When ready to serve, grill the corn and assemble with the toppings.
Q: Can I make Crazy Corn dairy-free? A: Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free butter substitute to make this dish dairy-free.
Crazy Corn is a delightful side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. With its creamy mayo, zesty cajun spice, savory Parmesan cheese, and rich melted butter, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, Crazy Corn is sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this irresistible twist on classic corn on the cob. Your taste buds will thank you!