Message from George McIvor, Chairman of The Master Chefs of Great Britain
The Master Chefs of Great Britain was formed in 1980 to provide a forum for the exchange of culinary ideas and to further the profession through training and the guidance of young chefs. In addition, the association seeks to promote all that is best about British cuisine and produce. We are delighted to be working with Country Range and providing information and recipes for their Eat the Season feature. For more information on the association and the competitions and training opportunities we provide contact masterchefs@msn.com
OFFICIAL TASTING NOTES
Properties: Sweetcorn is a variety of maize with a high sugar content. Also known as corn on the cob, sweetcorn is composed of rows of tightly packed golden yellow kernels growing along a tough central core. Sweetcorn is rich in nutrients including the antioxidants beta-carotene and lutein which are essential for preventing eye disease. Sweetcorn also contains certain B vitamins, vitamin C, amino acids, magnesium and potassium.
Usage: If you’re buying fresh corn try to select the ones with the brightest green husks that are wrapped tightly around the corn and feel firm. The husks that feel dry or are starting to yellow are not as fresh. Frozen or tinned sweetcorn is widely available and are a perfectly good option when fresh corn isn’t in season.
Notes: Sweetcorn is often served with seafood along with flavours such as garlic, paprika and chilli to complement the sweetness of the maize.
FRITTER AWAY – For a delicious savoury breakfast or brunch option, stack delicious sweetcorn fritters or pancakes high and serve them with a poached egg and fresh salsa.
THE SPICE OF LIFE – These colourful tortillas are such a versatile dish that can be served open or wrapped as a burrito. The sweetcorn can be served alongside spiced meats and sauces or with a mixture of colourful vegetables or meat alternatives as a vegan or vegetarian option.
WHET YOUR APPETITE – These bite sized snacks, known as Kratong Thong, are a popular Thai style appetizer made of sweetcorn and chicken, pork or tuna served together in a crispy pastry cup.
A BURGER WITH BITE – For a delicious homemade plant-based burger mix sweetcorn together with chickpeas, flour, breadcrumbs and a variety of seasonings and shape the mix into patties. Cook over a medium-high heat for around 4 minutes and serve in a warm, vegan friendly bun with lettuce and a smoky, chilli tomato relish on the side.
WASTE NOT, WANT NOT
Sweetcorn does have a relatively short life, not because it goes off but because the natural sugars turn to starch. You can use leftovers to make roasted corn which can add texture to a variety of dishes including salad bowls. Just sprinkle with paprika and oil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes.
