This Korean Cheesy Corn combines the rich creaminess of melted cheese with the spicy kick of gochujang, making it an irresistible side dish or snack. The gooey mozzarella and parmesan blend perfectly with the sweetness of the corn, creating a harmony of flavors that is both comforting and bold.
The addition of sesame oil, soy sauce, and a dash of rice vinegar adds an unexpected depth to the dish, and the optional chili flakes offer just the right amount of heat for those who love a little spice. Garnished with sesame seeds and fresh green onions, this dish is a treat for both the taste buds and the eyes.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
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2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 teaspoon sesame seeds
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1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
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2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Directions:
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In a large skillet, melt butter and sesame oil over medium heat.
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Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Stir in the corn kernels and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
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Lower the heat and add the mayonnaise, mozzarella, parmesan, sugar, soy sauce, gochujang, rice vinegar, and chili flakes (if using). Stir to combine and melt the cheese.
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Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing everything to meld together.
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Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What is Korean Cheesy Corn?
Korean Cheesy Corn, also known as ‘corn cheese’ in Korea, is a traditional dish often served alongside Korean BBQ. Its origins can be traced back to Korean cuisine, where corn is frequently incorporated into various dishes, and the popularity of cheesy side dishes has grown over the years. This dish usually includes fresh corn kernels, mayonnaise, cheese, and a few seasonings that result in a creamy, savory dip-like dish. While it is often served in sizzling hot pots at Korean restaurants, it can be easily made at home in just a few minutes.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and its ability to satisfy diverse taste preferences. The richness of melted mozzarella cheese combines with the sweetness of corn and the subtle tanginess of mayonnaise, giving this side dish a unique flavor profile. You’ll also find that it pairs exceptionally well with any grilled or barbecued meats, like Korean BBQ, ribs, or grilled chicken.
The Ingredients: A Few Simple Staples
The recipe for Korean Cheesy Corn calls for just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Fresh corn is preferred for its sweet, crunchy texture, but canned or frozen corn can easily replace fresh corn kernels when necessary. The combination of mayonnaise and shredded mozzarella cheese forms the creamy base of the dish, while the green onions add freshness and a slight sharpness.
One of the standout ingredients is sugar, which might seem unusual at first. However, adding just a small amount of sugar brings out the natural sweetness of the corn and balances the creamy and salty elements in the dish. A pinch of salt and pepper is essential for seasoning, bringing everything together for a perfect bite.
Cooking Korean Cheesy Corn: A Quick and Easy Process
Making Korean Cheesy Corn is incredibly easy and requires just a few basic steps. After preparing the ingredients, simply combine them in a mixing bowl and pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. The corn cheese is then baked in the oven to melt the cheese and heat everything through, followed by a quick broiling to get a bubbly, golden top. In less than 20 minutes, your dish will be ready to serve!
The baking and broiling process ensures that the cheese becomes beautifully melted and bubbly, with a slight golden-brown top that makes the dish even more appetizing. It’s perfect for serving alongside a hot meal or as an appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.
Tips for Success
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Corn Choice: While fresh corn is the ideal choice, you can use canned or frozen corn if fresh is unavailable. Be sure to drain canned corn thoroughly and omit the sugar, as canned corn tends to be naturally sweet. If you use frozen corn, make sure to thaw it and remove any excess moisture.
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Cheese Variations: Mozzarella cheese is the typical choice for its gooey texture, but you can experiment with other mild cheeses like fontina or gouda for different flavor profiles. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well.
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Adjusting Sweetness: The small amount of sugar in the recipe enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and balances the richness of the cheese. However, you can omit the sugar if you prefer a less sweet dish. Alternatively, you can use honey or agave syrup for a different twist.
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Serving Suggestions: Korean Cheesy Corn is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. It’s commonly paired with Korean BBQ but also goes wonderfully with any grilled meat, such as ribs, burgers, or roasted chicken. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips or bread for dipping as an appetizer, or even over a bed of rice for a comforting meal.
Make Ahead and Freezing Tips
If you’re preparing the dish in advance, Korean Cheesy Corn can be made up to 2 days ahead. Simply mix all the ingredients and place them in a baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake and serve. When ready, bake as directed and broil for the final touch.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. After assembling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time and broil as usual for that perfect golden top.
Perfect Pairings
While Korean Cheesy Corn is often enjoyed with Korean BBQ, it’s equally fantastic with other types of grilled meats. You could pair it with grilled chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, or even BBQ ribs for a fun and satisfying feast. For a more casual take, enjoy it with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices for dipping. It also makes an excellent side dish for a picnic or summer cookout, as it’s easy to make in large batches.
Conclusion: A Simple Yet Indulgent Dish
Korean Cheesy Corn is a must-try for anyone who enjoys creamy, cheesy, and slightly sweet dishes. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in under 20 minutes. Whether you serve it as a side dish at a BBQ or as a comforting appetizer, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
The best part about Korean Cheesy Corn is its adaptability. You can make it ahead of time, freeze it for later, and even adjust the flavor to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re preparing a casual family meal or a more elaborate gathering, this cheesy corn dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy the simple yet flavorful goodness that is Korean Cheesy Corn.