Looking for a side dish that dazzles your taste buds? Try my Honey Butter Skillet Corn! It’s sweet, savory, and super easy to make. With fresh corn, rich butter, and pure honey, this dish is a game changer for any meal. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple steps and share some tasty tips. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Freshness of Ingredients: This dish showcases the natural sweetness of fresh corn, making it a vibrant and delightful addition to any meal.
- Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish quickly, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of honey and thyme adds a unique sweet-savory twist that complements a variety of main dishes.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: Serving this dish in the skillet not only keeps it warm but also adds a rustic charm to your dining table.
Ingredients
Fresh Corn Kernels
You need 4 cups of fresh corn kernels. This is about 6-8 ears of corn. Fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture. Look for bright yellow kernels and firm cobs.
Unsalted Butter
Use 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. This butter adds creaminess to the dish. Unsalted lets you control the salt level.
Pure Honey
Add 1/4 cup of pure honey. Honey brings a sweet, rich flavor. It balances the corn’s natural taste. Always choose pure honey for the best results.
Sea Salt and Black Pepper
You will need 1 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. These seasonings enhance the dish. They add just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
Fresh Thyme and Parsley
For herbs, use 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme and 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley. Thyme adds earthiness, while parsley gives a fresh touch. They also make the dish look pretty!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Corn
Start by shucking the corn. Remove the husks and silk from each ear. Hold the cob upright in a bowl. Use a sharp knife to slice downwards. Collect the kernels in the bowl. This will give you about 4 cups of fresh corn.
Melting the Butter and Honey
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Let it melt completely. Once melted, pour in 1/4 cup of pure honey. Stir well with a wooden spoon. You want a smooth honey-butter mixture.
Cooking the Corn
Now, add the fresh corn kernels to the skillet. Stir them to coat with the honey-butter blend. Let the corn cook for about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking. The corn should be tender and slightly caramelized but still crunchy.
Seasoning the Dish
While the corn cooks, season with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Add 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves. Mix all the ingredients well. This will help the flavors combine nicely.
Finishing Touches
Once the corn is done, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. This adds a pop of color. You can serve it right in the skillet or transfer it to a serving dish. Drizzle a bit more honey for extra sweetness if you like. Enjoy this sweet and savory side dish!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Best Corn
Always pick fresh corn. Look for bright green husks. The kernels should be plump and juicy. Gently press a kernel; it should burst with liquid. If you can, buy locally. Sweet corn tastes best when it’s fresh.
Perfecting the Cook Time
Cook the corn for 7 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally. This helps it cook evenly. You want it tender but still crunchy. Watch for a golden color on the edges. This means it’s caramelizing and getting sweet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dish warm right from the skillet. For a pretty touch, add extra honey and thyme on top. This dish pairs well with grilled meats or spicy dishes. Honey butter skillet corn brings a sweet balance to any meal.
Pro Tips
- Choose Sweet Corn: For the best flavor, use fresh, sweet corn in season. Check for bright yellow kernels with a slightly glossy appearance.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey. You can also substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of chili powder for a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the honey.
- Serve Warm: Skillet corn is best enjoyed warm, so serve it immediately after cooking. Reheating can make the corn lose its crunch.
Variations
Adding Cheese
You can give your honey butter skillet corn a tasty twist by adding cheese. A sprinkle of cotija or feta cheese adds a creamy texture. Just mix in the cheese right before serving. The warm corn will melt the cheese slightly, making it extra delicious.
Spicy Honey Butter Corn
If you enjoy some heat, add chili powder or cayenne pepper. Start with a pinch and adjust to your liking. This will bring warmth to the sweet honey butter. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick. This variation pairs well with grilled meats.
Herb Variations
Try different herbs to change the flavor of your corn. Basil or cilantro can add a fresh taste. Just be sure to chop them finely and mix them in at the end. You can also use a blend of dried Italian herbs for a unique flavor profile. Each herb gives a new twist to the dish, keeping it exciting!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store leftover honey butter skillet corn in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to avoid steam buildup.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a bit of butter to keep it moist. Stir often for about 5 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze honey butter skillet corn, let it cool first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen corn. It saves time and is easy to find. Just thaw it before cooking. The flavor may differ slightly, but it will still taste good!
How long can I store honey butter skillet corn?
You can store it in the fridge for about three days. Keep it in an airtight container. Reheat it in a skillet for the best taste.
What can I serve with honey butter skillet corn?
This dish pairs well with grilled meats, like chicken or steak. It also goes great with tacos or as part of a BBQ spread. Feel free to mix it with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal!
How do I make the corn less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, use less honey. You can also add more salt and pepper to balance the flavors. Fresh herbs, like parsley, help too!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace the butter with plant-based butter or coconut oil. Use agave syrup instead of honey for sweetness. You’ll still get a tasty dish without the animal products!
In this blog post, we explored how to make honey butter skillet corn. We covered key ingredients like fresh corn, butter, and honey. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparing, cooking, and seasoning the dish. I also shared tips for choosing the best corn and serving ideas.
In closing, this recipe is simple and versatile. Experiment with different herbs or add cheese for a twist. Enjoy your cooking adventur
