Squaw Corn
Squaw Corn is a hearty, savory dish featuring sweet corn, crispy bacon, and flavorful vegetables, all cooked until thick and syrupy. Its rich, smoky taste makes it perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting blend of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon into 1/4-inch pieces and fry until crispy; drain and discard half of the bacon fat.
- Add the liquid from the corn along with chopped onion, green pepper, pimento, and diced green chiles to the pan.
- Cook over medium-high heat until a thick syrup forms on the bottom of the pan, stirring frequently.
- Add the drained corn, bacon, salt, and pepper; stir to combine and continue cooking until the corn is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon. If fresh ingredients are available, substitute a diced fresh green bell pepper for the green pepper. You can also add a pinch of cumin for extra depth. To enhance the dish, try serving it alongside My Favorite Fried Potatoes for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a fantastic side for grilled meats or a hearty main alongside cornbread. It pairs beautifully with Grandpa'S Goulash or can be served as a filling for tacos. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squaw Corn contains roughly 117 calories, with 5g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2019mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
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 dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the bacon and using olive oil or butter instead. For added flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the depth that bacon provides.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To control the heat, start with a small amount of green chiles and gradually add more to taste. You can also include mild jalapeños or leave them out entirely for a milder flavor. Balancing the spices with a touch of sugar can help if it becomes too spicy.
What type of corn can I use if I don’t have canned?
If canned corn isn't available, fresh or frozen corn can be used. If using fresh corn, cook it until tender and then add it to the dish at the same stage as the canned corn. Frozen corn should be thawed and drained before adding.
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).