Do you have an abundance of fresh corn that you want to store for later? This may lead you to wonder if you can freeze it and if so, how? If you're wondering these things, you've come to the right place. We've put together this detailed guide to help you store your corn and use it throughout the year.
Corn can easily be frozen and stored for up to a year in the freezer. To thaw frozen corn, put it in the fridge overnight, or run it under cool water.
So what's the best way to freeze corn, and how do you prepare it for the freezer? Once it's frozen, how do you thaw it for use? And are there other ways to preserve fresh corn? Keep reading to learn all the best strategies for tackling your corn surplus.
Storing and Thawing Fresh Frozen Corn
Fresh corn should keep in the freezer for 8-12 months easily. If you are unsure how long the corn has been in the freezer, it's best to throw it out. The best way to thaw frozen corn is to allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight. If you're short on time, you can thaw the corn by submerging it in cool water for about fifteen or twenty minutes.
What Are The Different Ways To Freeze Corn?
Corn can be frozen in various ways, but they all have benefits and downfalls of their own. Take a look at our list outlining the different ways to prepare corn for the freezer:
- Whole raw corn cobs, husks removed.
- Raw kernels cut from the cob.
- Blanched whole corn cobs.
- Blanched kernels cut from the cob.
Freezing Whole Raw Cobs
This method is by far the simplest of the options listed. Just remove the husk from the cobs and place them inside a freezer bag. Press the bag to release as much air as possible, then place them in the freezer.
When you're ready to use them, place them in a pot of boiling water for about 5 minutes to cook them straight out of the freezer without a thaw period.
These bags are large enough to fit several corn cobs in a single bag. Click here to see them on Amazon.
Raw Kernels
Cut the kernels off your raw, cleaned corn cobs using a sharp knife. Place the kernels inside a freezer bag in an even layer and squeeze any air out. Storing raw kernels this way will make them easier to stack in the freezer, saving you space. Raw kernels are another super quick and easy way to freeze your corn with minimal work.
Blanched Whole Cobs
Freezing blanched corn isn't too much more difficult than freezing raw corn, but it is a little more time-consuming. First, clean your cobs and blanch your corn. Once it's finished, remove the cobs from the pot and place them in a sink full of ice water to cool. Once the cobs have completely cooled, place them in a freezer bag, release excess air, and place them in the freezer.
Blanched Kernels
To prepare blanched kernels for the freezer, start by blanching the whole cobs. Allow them to cool, then cut the kernels from the cob and place them in freezer bags in an even layer. Press the air out of the bag before placing it in the freezer. Blanching kernels is a convenient way to freeze your fresh corn while preserving the flavor.
Which Way is Best?
Blanching the corn before freezing is the best way to store your corn. Blanching preserves the texture and flavor better than freezing it raw. Raw corn that was frozen tends to lose flavor and becomes slightly chewy. Freezing raw corn is a great option when you don't have the time to blanch, but the corn is better suited to soups and stews.
How Long Do You Blanch Corn on the Cob Before Freezing?
Fill a large pot with cold water and place it over a burner on high heat. While you wait for the water to boil, start cleaning your corn, removing all husks and silk. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, put the corn in the pot and start a timer to go off in 7 minutes. Remove the corn from the pot and place them in ice water to cool.
Can You Freeze Corn Without Blanching?
Yes, freezing raw corn is even easier than blanching it beforehand, but corn that was blanched before freezing tends to taste better. Raw corn that has been frozen is thought to have a watered-down flavor and a chewier texture. For the best taste, it is recommended to blanch corn before freezing it.
Should You Husk Corn Before Storing It?
Corn needs to be shucked or husked before being frozen or blanched. If you plan on consuming the corn within a few days, you should leave the husk on and store it in the fridge until you are ready to use it. The husk will serve as a natural protective layer, blocking bacteria and foreign substances.
How Do You Thaw Frozen Corn?
If you have the time, let the corn thaw by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight. You can quickly defrost kernels by running cold water over them, removing them from the freezer bag, and running cold water over them for five to ten minutes.
To quickly defrost whole cobs, leave them in their freezer bag and submerge them in cold water for ten to fifteen minutes.
Bellemain Mesh Strainer Set
This three-pack of mesh strainers will earn its place in your kitchen. Click here to see these on Amazon.
How Long Does Thawed Frozen Corn Last?
Corn can be kept in the refrigerator for three to four days after being removed from the freezer. Throw it out if you are uncertain of how long it has been defrosted. If it was left on the counter for longer than half an hour, dispose of it. Never thaw food on the counter. Room temperature creates adequate conditions for bacterial growth.
How Long Does Fresh Corn Last?
Fresh corn will last for one to three days if stored in the fridge and wrapped in plastic, whether or not it has a husk. You should aim to use your corn the day you purchase it to be safe. If the corn smells off or has a slimy feel, it has gone bad and needs to be disposed of. Visible mold or the scent of mold is another good sign that your corn has gone bad.
Are There Other Ways To Store Corn?
Yes, you can try canning corn at home for a delicious and long-lasting preservation method. You can't keep whole cobs this way, or it would be impractical to do so, but it is a great way to preserve kernels for use year-round.
The consensus is that canned corn is more flavorful than frozen corn too. You could also try preparing the corn in a recipe, like creamed corn, then freeze it.
T-Fal Pressure Canner and Cooker
If you want to try canning your corn, you will need a pressure canner. Click here to see this one on Amazon.
How To Use Corn Quickly
If you have an abundance of fresh corn that you don't want to see go to waste, try some corn-heavy recipes. Cornbread, creamed corn, and shepherd's pie are several great recipes that use a lot of corn. Most of these recipes will freeze well too. If all else fails, offer some fresh corn to your neighbors and friends.
This cornbread pan is a fun way to put your corn to good use, and it's perfect for Thanksgiving. Click here to see it on Amazon.
In Corn-clusion
Now that you've learned all the best ways to store your corn, you're ready to stockpile your winter supply. Don't be afraid to try freezing using all the different methods to see what works best for you. If you know of any other great ways to store corn, let us know in the comments. Have fun cooking!
For more advice on storing your fall harvest, read our article "How Do You Store Squash? [Inc. In The Fridge And Freezer]".
If you have an abundance of fresh garden tomatoes, you should read our article "Do Tomatoes Freeze Well?"
