Southwestern Corn Boil

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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Get ready to spice up your summer cookout with a Southwestern Corn Boil that's bursting with flavor. This dish combines the sweetness of corn with the smokiness of sausage and the warmth of southwestern spices. It's a one-pot wonder that brings everyone to the table.

Ingredients for Southwestern Corn Boil

Corn is the star of this dish, providing a sweet and juicy base that pairs beautifully with the spices. The baby potatoes add heartiness and soak up all the wonderful flavors. Smoked sausage introduces a savory, smoky element that gives the dish depth. Red bell pepper and yellow onion bring color and a bit of sweetness. The garlic adds a punch of flavor that complements the spices: chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, which deliver that signature southwestern kick. Butter gives a rich finish, and a sprinkle of cilantro adds freshness. Serve with lime wedges for a zesty touch.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, grill the corn briefly before boiling.
  • Adjust the heat by varying the amount of cayenne pepper based on your preference.
  • Use a mix of red and yellow baby potatoes for visual appeal and a slight variation in taste.
  • Ensure the pot is large enough to comfortably hold all ingredients to avoid overcrowding.

Serving Suggestions

This Southwestern Corn Boil pairs beautifully with a light, crisp salad or a simple coleslaw. For drinks, consider a refreshing iced tea or a chilled beer to complement the smoky, spicy flavors. If serving as part of a larger meal, it works wonderfully alongside grilled meats or fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage or replace it with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.
How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove with a bit of water to prevent drying out.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables and sausage ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Southwestern Corn Boil Recipe Walkthrough

Start by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil. While the water heats, husk your corn and cut your baby potatoes in half. Once boiling, add the corn, potatoes, sliced smoked sausage, chopped red bell pepper, and sliced yellow onion to the pot.

Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a good mix to ensure the spices are evenly distributed, then let it all boil for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and the corn is succulent.

Once everything is cooked through, carefully drain the pot and transfer the contents to a large serving platter. In a small saucepan, melt the butter, then drizzle it over the top of your corn mixture. Finally, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro and arrange lime wedges around the platter for an extra burst of flavor when serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a spontaneous gathering.
  • Packed with bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors.
  • Versatile enough for a main dish or a side.
  • Minimal cleanup with just one pot to wash.
  • Seasonal ingredients make it fresh and vibrant.

Ingredients

6 ears of corn, husked
1/2 lb baby potatoes, halved
1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 large red bell pepper, chopped
1 large yellow onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 lime, cut into wedges
Salt and pepper to taste
4 tbsp unsalted butter

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add corn, baby potatoes, smoked sausage, red bell pepper, and yellow onion.
2. Stir in garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Boil for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the corn is cooked through.
4. Drain the pot and transfer the ingredients to a large serving platter.
5. Melt butter and drizzle over the corn mixture. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
6. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

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