Farm-style Corn Pudding

Farm-style Corn Pudding Recipe - A Flavorful American Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

History

Corn pudding has been a staple in Southern cuisine for generations. Originally made with fresh corn, milk, and eggs, this dish has evolved over time to include a variety of ingredients such as cheese, peppers, and bacon. Farm-style corn pudding is a modern take on this classic recipe, adding a touch of spice and richness to the traditional dish.

Ingredients

2 cups cream-style corn
1 can whole kernel corn
1 pickled jalapeño pepper, diced
2 tsp pimentos, diced
1 cup medium fine dry bread crumbs
1 cup milk
2 tbsp chopped green pepper
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp pepper
4 oz (113 g) sliced cheddar cheese cut into 1.5" squares
3 slices bacon cut into 1" strips

How to prepare

Combine corn, jalapeño, pimentos, bread crumbs, milk, green pepper, salt, and pepper.
Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish.
Arrange alternate pieces of cheese and bacon on top in a checkerboard pattern.
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for one hour.

Variations

Add cooked diced chicken or ham for a heartier dish.
Mix in some diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese such as pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist.
Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy topping.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh corn for the best flavor and texture in this dish.

- If you don't have fresh corn, you can use canned corn as a substitute.

- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to suit your taste preferences – add more for extra heat or omit them for a milder dish.

- Make sure to butter the baking dish well to prevent sticking.

- For a crispy topping, broil the pudding for a few minutes after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Farm-style corn pudding is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or a main course. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Serve it hot out of the oven for the best flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use frozen corn kernels instead of fresh corn.

- Substitute pickled jalapeños with fresh jalapeños or bell peppers.

- Use any type of cheese you prefer, such as Swiss or Monterey Jack.

- Replace bacon with cooked sausage or ham.

Make Ahead Tips

Farm-style corn pudding can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the corn pudding with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve it in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Sprinkle with paprika or chili powder for a touch of spice.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair farm-style corn pudding with grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or roasted pork loin. Serve with a side of coleslaw, green beans, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, pair with a quinoa salad or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover corn pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 25g

Dietary Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 5g

Fats

Total Fat: 10g

Saturated Fat: 5g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 8g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

Vitamin C: 15%

Calcium: 15%

Iron: 6%

Alergens

Contains: Dairy, Gluten

Summary

Farm-style corn pudding is a rich and creamy dish that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron.

Summary

Farm-style corn pudding is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. This creamy and cheesy pudding is made with fresh corn, jalapeños, pimentos, and cheddar cheese, giving it a unique and flavorful twist. Enjoy this dish as a side or main course, and customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day on the farm, the sun shining brightly in the sky and the scent of freshly cut grass filling the air. I was in the kitchen, surrounded by the comforting aromas of baking bread and simmering stews, when my dear friend Martha came over with a basket full of fresh corn from her garden.

Martha had always been a wonderful cook, and she had a knack for creating delicious dishes with whatever ingredients she had on hand. She handed me an ear of corn and said, "I have a recipe for corn pudding that I think you'll love. It's a simple dish, but it's full of flavor and perfect for summer gatherings."

I eagerly took the corn from her and listened as she explained the recipe to me. She told me to shuck the corn and carefully cut the kernels off the cob, then mix them with eggs, milk, butter, and a touch of sugar. The mixture would then be poured into a baking dish and baked until golden and bubbly. It sounded like the perfect dish to serve at our next family gathering, so I thanked Martha and set to work in the kitchen.

As I prepared the corn pudding, I couldn't help but think back to all the wonderful meals I had shared with friends and family over the years. Each dish had its own story, its own history, and its own special place in my heart. This corn pudding, I knew, would soon become one of those cherished recipes that would be passed down through the generations.

When the pudding was finally ready, I pulled it out of the oven and marveled at its golden color and sweet aroma. I couldn't wait to share it with my loved ones and see their faces light up with pleasure. As we sat down to eat, I watched as my grandchildren eagerly dug into their servings, their eyes widening with delight at the creamy texture and rich flavor.

"This is delicious, Grandma!" my youngest grandchild exclaimed, a big smile on his face. "Can we have this every time we come visit?"

I chuckled and ruffled his hair affectionately. "Of course, dear. This corn pudding will always have a place on our table, just like all the other recipes I've collected over the years."

And so, that simple farm-style corn pudding became a staple in our family gatherings, a dish that brought us together and reminded us of the joys of good food and good company. I continued to make it for years to come, sharing the recipe with friends and neighbors who would always ask for seconds.

As I grew older, I realized that the true beauty of cooking lies not only in the flavors and textures of the dishes we create, but in the memories and stories that accompany them. Each recipe tells a tale of its own, a tale of friendship, love, and shared experiences that enrich our lives in ways we may never fully understand.

And so, as I sit here in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting scents of baking bread and simmering stews, I can't help but smile as I remember that warm summer day on the farm when Martha introduced me to the recipe for farm-style corn pudding. It may be a simple dish, but it holds a special place in my heart, just like all the other recipes I've collected over the years. And for that, I am truly grateful.