Description
A flavorful and creamy cilantro-lime creamed corn cooked effortlessly in an Instant Pot. This recipe combines sweet corn kernels with fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a vibrant and comforting side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Corn and Seasoning
- 5 cups corn kernels (from about 6 cobs)
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 2 Tbsp finely chopped cilantro leaves
- Zest of 2 limes, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 2 Tbsp water
Instructions
- Prepare Corn Kernels: Cut the kernels off 6 corn cobs to yield about 4-5 cups of corn. Break up the corn into individual kernels to ensure even cooking.
- Load Instant Pot: Place the corn kernels, 1 1/2 cups of water, and 1 teaspoon of sea salt into the Instant Pot. Stir well to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes to cook the corn thoroughly while retaining moisture and sweetness.
- Quick Release: When the cooking cycle ends, release the pressure quickly following the Instant Pot’s quick release method, then remove the lid carefully.
- Sauté and Add Flavor: Switch the Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add 1/2 cup butter, chopped cilantro leaves, lime zest, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Stir continuously until the butter has fully melted and combined with the corn mixture.
- Thicken Creamed Corn: Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water. Pour this slurry into the pot and stir well. Continue to cook for about 1 minute until the creamed corn thickens to the desired consistency.
- Keep Warm: Turn the Instant Pot to the warm setting to keep the creamed corn at an ideal serving temperature until ready to serve.
Notes
- This recipe is inspired by cherished childhood memories, blending the creamy comfort of traditional creamed corn with the fresh and zesty flavors of cilantro and lime.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the level of spiciness according to your preference.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative but expect a slight change in flavor.
- The cornstarch slurry is key to achieving the thick creamy texture characteristic of creamed corn.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 202 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 345 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
