Corn Butter

Prep: 15 min

Creamy corn butter with a tang of lemon and a hint of carrot, perfect as a spread or accompaniment for those who enjoy rich, textured flavors with a nutty twist.

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Ingredients

  • 2 tsp. unflavored gelatin
  • 1/4 c. cold water
  • 1 c. boiling water
  • 1 c. cornmeal mush
  • 1/4 c. raw cashews
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 2 tsp. lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp. finely grated raw carrot

Instructions

  1. Soak gelatin in 1/4 cup cold water for several minutes.
  2. Pour 1 cup boiling water over the soaked gelatin and whiz until dissolved.
  3. Add remaining ingredients and liquify until smooth as cream.
  4. Pour into a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until set.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, blend the cornmeal mush longer until fully incorporated. You can substitute raw cashews with sunflower seeds if you're looking for a nut-free option. If you're short on time, consider using store-bought cornmeal mush instead of making your own. This recipe can also be adjusted by adding herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Corn Butter as a spread on crusty bread or alongside grilled vegetables for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Stuffed Japanese Eggplant for a balanced meal. Consider adding a side of Marinated Carrot Sticks for a refreshing crunch, making it a perfect accompaniment for a summer picnic.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Corn Butter contains roughly 97 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1502mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).

97 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 1.2g 1% DV
Carbs 20.5g 7% DV
Fiber 5.2g 19% DV
Sugar 6.1g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1502.2mg 65% DV
Potassium 453.1mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 513.5mcg 57% DV
Vitamin C 2.2mg 2% DV
Calcium 82.7mg 6% DV
Iron 1mg 6% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, Corn Butter can be prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, allow it to set in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to serve when needed. This makes it a great option for entertaining or meal prepping.

Is there a vegan alternative to gelatin?

Absolutely! You can use agar-agar as a vegan substitute for gelatin. Follow the package instructions to achieve a similar setting effect, adjusting the amount as needed since agar-agar may require different ratios.

What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding fresh herbs like chives or dill for an aromatic twist. Alternatively, a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder can add a nice depth of flavor. Experimenting with different spices can make this dish versatile for various palates.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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