Difference Between Indian Corn And American Corn
Corn has been a staple food for centuries, not just in America but all over the world. It is widely popular among the indigenous people of America, where corn was first cultivated. When it comes to corn, there are two main categories, Indian corn, and American corn. Although they may appear similar, there are many differences between these two types of corn. In this article, we will explore the dissimilarities between Indian corn and American corn.
What is Indian Corn?
Indian corn or maize is a variety of corn that is native to the Americas. It is distinguishable from other corn varieties because of its large and brightly colored kernels. It has a hard outer layer that makes it difficult to eat fresh. Hence, it is usually dried and used for decorative purposes, such as wreaths and centerpieces, rather than as food.
Indian corn comes in a variety of colors such as red, blue, yellow, and purple. Unlike American corn, the kernels of Indian corn have a hard outer shell, making it difficult to grind into flour. It is typically used for making popcorn, as it has a tough outer layer that prevents it from popping unless it is heated to a temperature of at least 400°F.
What is American Corn?
American corn, also known as sweet corn, is the most commonly consumed type of corn in the United States. It is an edible corn that has a soft, starchy and sweet texture. Unlike Indian corn, it is harvested in the summer when the kernels are still soft and can be eaten fresh or cooked. American corn is generally yellow or white in color, with a few varieties being bi-colored or multi-colored.
American corn has a higher sugar content than Indian corn, which gives it the sweet taste that is loved by many. It is commonly boiled, roasted or grilled and served with butter and salt. It is also used in many recipes, such as cornbread, casseroles, soups, and salads.
Differences Between Indian Corn and American Corn
There are many differences between Indian corn and American corn, including:
- Appearance: Indian corn is darker and larger than American corn. It also has a hard outer layer, while American corn has a soft outer layer.
- Flavor: Indian corn is not as sweet as American corn due to its lower sugar content. American corn is sweet and has a delicate flavor.
- Harvest time: Indian corn is harvested in the fall when the kernels have dried and hardened, while American corn is harvested in the summer when the kernels are still soft and sweet.
- Uses: Indian corn is primarily used for decorative purposes, while American corn is used for eating fresh, cooking, and processing.
Conclusion
Indian corn and American corn are both members of the corn family, but they are vastly different from each other. While Indian corn is prized for its vibrant colors and is mostly used for decorative purposes, American corn is a delicious and nutritious food source. Understanding the differences between these two types of corn can help you make more informed decisions on how to use them in your kitchen and home decor.