Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Introduction
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a sweet and savory side dish that’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. This dish combines the natural sweetness of corn with the rich, indulgent flavor of honey butter, making it a delightful addition to family dinners, BBQs, or holiday meals. The corn is cooked in a skillet, allowing it to absorb all the wonderful flavors of the honey butter and get a little crispy on the edges. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, baked chicken, or even as a standalone snack, this dish will surely be a crowd-pleaser!
History of the Dish
The combination of honey and butter has been a classic in many cuisines, often used to add richness and sweetness to a variety of dishes. Corn, on the other hand, is a staple in many parts of the world, especially in the United States, where it’s often found in BBQs and casual family meals. Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a modern twist on traditional corn on the cob, transforming it into a creamy, flavorful side that works perfectly with both simple meals and festive gatherings.
Health Benefits
- Corn – A good source of dietary fiber, vitamins like B6, and antioxidants, corn helps support digestive health and provides energy.
- Honey – Contains natural sugars, antioxidants, and has antibacterial properties, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugars.
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor, but be mindful of the quantity for a balanced diet. Opt for unsalted butter for more control over your dish’s sodium content.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen corn (or fresh corn kernels if available)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for a savory touch)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- A squeeze of lime juice (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
- If using frozen corn, thaw it in a colander or microwave. If using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cob by cutting down the sides with a sharp knife.
- Drain any excess water from the corn if using frozen, and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Corn
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil (if using).
- Add the corn to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.
- You can let the corn sit undisturbed in the skillet for a minute or two to get some nice caramelization on the edges for extra flavor.
Step 3: Make the Honey Butter
- While the corn is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the honey and mix until smooth.
- Add the garlic powder if you’re using it, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the sweetness or seasoning to your liking.
Step 4: Combine the Corn and Honey Butter
- Once the corn has cooked and has a slight caramelization on the edges, pour the honey butter mixture over the corn. Stir everything together to coat the corn evenly with the sweet, buttery sauce. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the corn to absorb the honey butter.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the skillet and transfer the corn to a serving dish.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired to balance the sweetness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, sweet, and savory goodness of Honey Butter Skillet Corn!
Serving Suggestions:
- Grilled Meats: This sweet and buttery corn pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like BBQ chicken, steaks, or pork chops.
- With Rice: Serve the honey butter corn over a bed of rice for a hearty, comforting side dish.
- Tacos or Burritos: Add a spoonful of this corn as a topping for tacos or burritos to add some sweetness and crunch.
- BBQ Platters: Make this the star side dish at your next BBQ by pairing it with your favorite grilled meats and sides.
- Salads: You can also serve this corn as a topping for a fresh salad for added texture and sweetness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values for 1/4 cup serving)
- Calories: 120-150
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Corn: If you have access to fresh corn on the cob, you can grill the corn first for an added smoky flavor, then cut the kernels off the cob and combine them with the honey butter sauce.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can add more honey to the butter mixture, but be mindful of the balance of savory and sweet.
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, sprinkle a little chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes into the corn mixture.
- Make Ahead: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the honey butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply warm it up when you’re ready to make the corn.
Conclusion
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a quick and easy side dish that will elevate any meal with its sweet, savory, and buttery flavor. It’s simple to prepare and offers a delightful combination of textures from the tender corn and caramelized edges. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or as part of a festive feast, this dish is sure to be a hit with your guests. Enjoy the comforting goodness of this irresistible side dish! Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy