Dried Sweet Corn is renowned for its slightly nutty flavor, enhancing the taste of various dishes. To prepare it, add corn and water to a pot, sprinkle calcium hydroxide, and stir with a wooden spoon. This combination has been a staple in many traditional recipes, such as tamales, maíz cakes, and maíz-based drinks like atole.
For a heartwarming Vegetarian Stew, gather ingredients like Chili, Bell peppers, Onion, Olive oil, Thyme, Black pepper, Tomato, Dried beans, Garlic, Corn, and Spring onions. Storing field corn in oxygen-free containers extends its shelf life and keeps bugs away. Chicos, a traditional preparation, are cooked until they rehydrate, often paired with beans or in winter stews.
Prepare tamal dough by beating lard and broth until fluffy. Soaked seeds need constant watering, especially if rain doesn’t keep the soil moist. Corn stalks can be creatively used in decorations, like bundling them onto a grapevine wreath. Popcorn, a favorite snack, comes from a specific Maize variety, Zea mays everta.
Interestingly, corn is not just a human food. While deer may need more than they can consume to get enough calories, corn still forms part of their diet. Enriched grits, another corn derivative, are an excellent iron source. Unlike fresh corn, which is a vegetable, dried corn is considered a grain, making it a versatile ingredient in various cuisines.
