Well-prepared corn and summer are inseparable companions, representing the essence of warm-weather cuisine. Elevate this seasonal favorite with this flavorful Maque Choux recipe, from Southern Living, that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the zest of peppers and a hint of smoky goodness from the grill. This dish is not only a culinary delight but also a nod to the rich cultural history of Louisiana.
Ingredients:
- 6 ears of corn, with one layer of husks peeled back and silks trimmed
- 1 small poblano or jalapeño pepper, diced
- 1 medium-sized Vidalia onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
- 8 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (350°-400°F). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the corn, still in their husks, directly on the grill. Turn the cobs occasionally over the course of 20 minutes, ensuring even grill marks. Once the corn is evenly charred, let it cool. Cut the kernels off the cob over a bowl, using the blunt edge of your knife to press out the milky juice from the cob for added flavor.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until they are crispy. Drain half of the bacon grease, reserving the rest for future recipes like gravies or sauces.
- Melt the butter in the skillet with the remaining bacon grease. Add the chopped onion, celery, and peppers. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften. Incorporate the corn kernels and their milk, along with the thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to ensure all the vegetables are well-coated. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, letting the liquid reduce slightly and thicken. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the crispy bacon pieces.
Perfect Pairings for Maque Choux
Maque Choux pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, enhancing any meal with its rich flavors. Here are some suggestions to serve alongside this corn delicacy:
- Grilled Shrimp or Fish: The smoky, creamy corn dish complements the light, fresh taste of grilled seafood.
- Cajun-spiced Chicken: Add a spicy kick to your meal by pairing Maque Choux with seasoned chicken breasts or thighs.
- Fried Catfish: The crispy, savory flavor of fried catfish pairs perfectly with the sweet and creamy corn.
- Collard Greens: The earthy, slightly bitter taste of collard greens balances the sweetness of the corn.
- Jambalaya: Enhance a traditional Cajun meal by adding this corn dish to your table.
- Red Beans and Rice: A hearty, comforting combination that brings out the best in both dishes.
- Cornbread: Double up on the corn theme with a side of moist, buttery cornbread.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted root vegetables complements the vibrant flavors of Maque Choux.
- Southern-style Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits make a delightful addition to this rich and creamy dish.
Maque Choux is more than just a side dish; it is a celebration of history, culture, and the vibrant flavors of summer. Whether you are hosting a barbecue, preparing a family dinner, or simply indulging in a taste of the South, this recipepromises to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Embrace the legacy of corn and the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana with this unforgettable dish.
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