Cooking with Corn: Why This Summer Essential Is Having a Moment in Australia

Corn is officially having a moment in Australian kitchens - and not just on the barbecue.

 

From buttery corn on the cob at summer BBQs to golden fritters, creamy dips and air-fried corn ribs, this humble ingredient is proving just how versatile, affordable and family-friendly it really is. Sweet, naturally gluten-free and easy to cook, corn works just as beautifully in quick weeknight meals as it does in crowd-pleasing entertaining recipes.

 

Whether you’re cooking with fresh corn, reaching for a tin of corn kernels, or using creamed corn for comforting bakes, corn adds flavour, texture and colour to everyday meals - no fuss required.

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Why Corn Is So Popular Right Now

Corn ticks a lot of boxes for modern Australian home cooks:
 
  • Affordable and easy to find year-round
  • Kid-friendly flavour and texture
  • Naturally sweet - no added sugar needed
  • Works across BBQs, breakfasts, lunches and dinners
  • Pairs well with cheese, eggs, herbs, spices and vegetables
 
It’s also a go-to ingredient for easy family mealsvegetarian recipesair fryer cooking, and summer entertaining - all high-interest cooking categories right now.
 
 
How to Choose the Best Corn
 
Fresh Corn
When buying fresh corn on the cob, look for:
 
  • Bright green, tightly wrapped husks
  • Pale golden silks (not dry or black)
  • Firm, plump kernels when gently pressed
 
Fresh corn is at its sweetest soon after harvesting, so use it as soon as possible for the best flavour.
 
 
Tinned Corn
A pantry staple for a reason. Choose:
 
  • No added sugar or unnecessary salt
  • Corn kernels packed in water
  • Reputable brands with good kernel size
 
Perfect for fritters, bakes, salads and quick midweek meals.
 
 
Creamed Corn
Great for adding moisture and richness to:
 
  • Fritter batters
  • Savoury loaves
  • Casseroles and bakes
 
Look for versions with a high corn content for best texture and flavour.
 
 
How to Cut Corn Off the Cob (Without the Mess)
  1. Remove the husk and silk completely
  2. Stand the cob upright on a cutting board or inside a large bowl
  3. Using a sharp knife, slice downwards close to the cob
  4. Rotate and repeat until all kernels are removed
 
Tip: Placing the cob inside a large bowl helps catch kernels and reduce mess.
 
How to Store Corn Properly
  • Fresh corn: Store unshucked in the fridge for up to 3 days
  • Cut kernels: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 48 hours
  • Cooked corn: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days
  • Frozen corn: Freeze fresh kernels in zip-lock bags for up to 6 months
 
Corn freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for meal prep and batch cooking.
 
Best Ways to Cook Corn
Corn is incredibly forgiving and suits multiple cooking methods:
 
  • Boiled - classic, quick and family-friendly
  • BBQ-grilled - adds smoky flavour and char
  • Air fried - crispy edges with minimal oil
  • Pan-fried - ideal for fritters and sautés
  • Baked - perfect for loaves, bakes and casseroles
 
Must-Watch Video Recipes Featuring Corn
Savoury Corn Fritter Loaf
A golden, sliceable corn fritter loaf that’s perfect for lunches, picnics or easy family dinners.
 
 
 
Mexican Cheesy Street Corn Dip
A creamy, cheesy street corn–style dip packed with bold Mexican flavours - made for sharing.
 
Play Video: Mexican Cheesy Street Corn Dip
 
Air Fryer Parmesan Corn Ribs
Crispy air fryer corn ribs coated in parmesan and herbs for an easy side or snack.
 
Play Video: Air Fryer Parmesan Corn Ribs
 
Cheesy Corn and Zucchini Fritters with Poached Eggs
Light, cheesy corn and zucchini fritters topped with perfectly poached eggs for an easy brunch or dinner.
 
Play Video: Cheesy Corn and Zucchini Fritters
 

More Delicious Recipes to Make with Corn

Corn works across every form - fresh, tinned and creamed. Try it in:
 
  • Corn fritters and pancakes
  • Cheesy corn bakes
  • BBQ corn salads
  • Savoury muffins and loaves
  • Corn chowders and soups
  • Tacos, nachos and Mexican-inspired meals
 
Explore more ideas using fresh corn, tinned corn, creamed corn and more - perfect for busy families, summer entertaining and easy weeknight cooking.
 
 
 
Helpful Kitchen Tools for Cooking with Corn
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