kernel corn drained

ProduceYear-round. Fresh corn is seasonal (peak June through September in North America), but canned and frozen drained kernel corn are available year-round as shelf-stable or freezer-ready products.

Kernel corn is a good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber, and contains B vitamins (particularly thiamine and folate) and minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus. Drained frozen kernels retain most nutritional value, while canned versions may have added sodium depending on the product.

About

Kernel corn, known botanically as Zea mays, consists of the individual seeds or kernels removed from the cob of mature corn ears. When drained, it refers to canned or frozen corn kernels from which excess liquid (typically water, brine, or packing liquid) has been removed. Corn kernels are the endosperm tissue of the kernel, which contains starch, protein, and fat. Drained kernel corn is a convenient, shelf-stable or frozen preparation that preserves the naturally sweet flavor and tender texture of the corn kernel.

Culinary Uses

Drained kernel corn is a versatile ingredient used across numerous cuisines as a convenient base for soups, stews, casseroles, salads, and side dishes. Common applications include succotash, corn chowder, cornbread fillings, Mexican street corn preparations, and grain bowls. In Asian cuisines, it appears in fried rice and stir-fries; in Latin American cooking, it features prominently in tamales, polenta, and corn-based salsas. The drained form is particularly valued in quick weeknight cooking, allowing for minimal preparation time while retaining the nutritional profile and natural sweetness of fresh corn.

Forms & Preparations

  • Canned in water — Corn kernels packed in water with minimal sodium; drained before use.
  • Canned in brine — Corn kernels packed in salted water; requires draining and rinsing to reduce sodium content.
  • Frozen kernels — Fresh corn kernels that have been blanched and frozen; requires thawing or cooking directly from frozen.
  • Vacuum-sealed drained — Individually drained corn kernels in vacuum-sealed packages; ready-to-use format requiring no additional draining.

Substitutes

  • Unknown — Cut kernels directly from the cob; use 1:1 ratio. Requires cooking and draining; offers superior texture but requires more preparation time.
  • Unknown — Use if a thicker, creamier consistency is desired; substitute at 1:1 ratio but reduce other liquid in the recipe to account for moisture content.
  • Unknown — For dishes where a more robust corn flavor and starch content are desired; not a direct substitute but works in casseroles and baked goods.
  • Unknown — Larger kernels with different texture; use 1:1 but note the distinct flavor profile is more suited to specific cuisines like Mexican cooking.

Recipes Using kernel corn drained (3)

RCI-VG.004.1203.001

Scalloped Corn II

From Menu and Recipes for the week of 2/25/07 From "Catsrecipes Y-Group"

RCI-SP.003.0703.001

Turkey Meatball Soup

This recipe comes from a nurse friend. She brought this to me a few years ago when I had minor surgery. This was so comforting. I now make this for friends who need a pot full of love and comfort when times are tough.

RCI-SP.003.0712.001

Vege Chili

I served over brown rice and provided bowls of hot sauce, fat-free sour cream, chopped jalapeno peppers, and chopped onions. I also had a loaf of wheat bread and several people ate their chili with that instead of the rice. Yum yum.