Heirloom Corn Custard

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 50 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Heirloom Corn Custard is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish, blending the freshness of sweet corn with the creamy texture of custard. Perfect for capturing the essence of late summer or early fall, this dish is both simple to prepare and rich in flavor.

Ingredients for Heirloom Corn Custard

Corn kernels: The star of the show, fresh corn adds sweetness and texture. Choose ears that feel heavy for their size, with bright green husks.

Butter: Used for sautéing the corn, it adds richness and a slight nutty flavor.

Eggs: Act as a binding agent, giving the custard its structure.

Heavy cream and whole milk: These provide the creamy base for the custard, with the cream adding luxurious richness.

Granulated sugar: Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.

All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the custard without making it dense.

Salt, nutmeg, and black pepper: These spices enhance the natural flavors of the corn and add a subtle warmth.

Tips & Tricks

  • If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn kernels work well too. Just thaw and drain them before using.
  • For a deeper flavor, consider roasting the corn before sautéing.
  • Want a bit of spice? Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the mix.

Serving Suggestions

This custard pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled vegetables. It also makes a lovely addition to a brunch spread, complemented by a fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the custard a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Try substituting the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk for a different, but delicious flavor.
Can I use canned corn?
While fresh is best, canned corn can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well.

Heirloom Corn Custard Recipe Walkthrough

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a medium-sized baking dish. This will ensure the custard doesn't stick and comes out easily once baked.

Next, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the corn kernels and give them a good sauté for about 5 minutes. You want them soft but not mushy, just enough to release their sweetness.

While the corn is cooling a bit, whisk together the eggs, cream, and milk in a mixing bowl. You’re aiming for a smooth, consistent mixture here.

Now, gradually add the sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and black pepper to the wet mix. Keep whisking until everything is well blended and lump-free.

Stir the sautéed corn into your creamy mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed. This way, every bite of custard will have that sweet corn goodness.

Pour everything into your prepared baking dish. Slide it into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the custard is set and the top is a lovely golden brown.

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. This will help the flavors meld and make it easier to cut.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Uses fresh, seasonal ingredients that enhance flavor.
  • Combines sweet and savory elements for a unique dish.
  • Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
  • Easy to prepare with minimal steps, making it great for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

3 cups fresh corn kernels
1/4 cup unsalted butter
3 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a medium-sized baking dish.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the corn kernels and sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and milk.
4. Gradually add sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and black pepper to the wet mixture, whisking until smooth.
5. Add the cooked corn to the mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

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