How to Char Frozen Corn

Name: How to Char Frozen Corn
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 14 min
Ingredients: 1 cup frozen corn kernels; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or lime juice); salt and pepper (to taste)

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How to Char Frozen Corn | Charring frozen corn kernels takes only minutes and imparts a delicious, smoky flavor and crisp texture. Add charred corn to your favorite plant-based recipes, like dinner bowls, salad bowls, tacos, or salsa.

Frozen corn is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in various ways and used in various dishes from sweet to savory, and from breakfast to dinner to dessert.

There are many ways to cook corn but charring it is a great way to add smoky and delicious flavor. I like to use a cast iron skillet because I’m very devoted to my cast iron collection but you can also use a good non-stick pan.

Add the frozen corn to your favorite salads, tacos, salsa, soup, or Loaded Potato Bowls.

Ingredients

This is a brief overview of the ingredients used in this recipe followed by substitution ideas. Read the recipe card for measurements.

frozen corn: there is no need to thaw the corn, it still takes only minutes to cook.
lime or lemon juice: this adds a little acidity to balance out the sweet and smoky flavors and really bring the corn to life.
salt and pepper: always season your dishes!
cooking oil: added close to the end to add flavor and help crisp up the corn.

Substitutions

Spices: Add your favorite spices or spice mixes to the charred corn like this Taco Spice Mix from PiperCooks or add your favorite store-bought mix.

Instructions

Prep Tips

I use a cast iron skillet over medium heat.

Corn kernels cooking in a cast iron pan.

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the frozen corn.

Season the corn with salt.

Add pepper to the corn.

Let the corn sit for 5-6 minutes, allowing it to brown.

Drizzle the oil in and stir the corn, then let it brown again for a few minutes. Repeat a few times until the corn is evenly charred.

Squeezing lemon onto corn kernels cooking in a cast iron pan.

Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the corn. This will help loosen any brown bits from the pan (extra flavor!). Stir the corn for a minute or so and then remove it from the pan and serve.

Nutrition benefits of corn

Corn is low in fat and high in fiber, Vitamin C and antioxidants.

Tips for Making Charred Corn

preheat: Preheat your skillet so that the corn will begin to char immediately when you place it in the pan.
temperature: Maintain an even medium temperature so that the frozen corn cooks all the way through while getting a nice char on it without burning.
let it sit: Let the corn sit still for a few minutes between stirring for an even char on all sides of the corn.
seasoning: season after the corn has been charred. Cooking spices in a dry pan for an extended amount of time can burn them. Do this in the last 1-2 minutes.

What to serve with Skillet Charred Corn

Add this charred corn alongside charred jalapeños into a Loaded Potato Bowl, or other grain bowl. Charred corn is a good addition to tacos, salsas, salads and veggie burger patties.

Storage

Store the corn in a container with a lid in the fridge for 4-5 days.

Freeze the corn for a month or two in a sealed container. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

FAQ

How long does it take to char frozen corn?

It takes about 10-12 minutes to char the corn on the stovetop in a cast iron pan over medium heat.

What seasonings work well with charred frozen corn?

Charred frozen corn is great with just salt and pepper. To add more smoky flavor, try smoked paprika, or add some heat with ground chili powder.