Yes, you can eat most types of colored corn on the cob, but the taste and texture might differ from the sweet corn you typically find in supermarkets.
Types of Colored Corn and Their Edibility
Several types of colored corn exist, each with varying edibility and palatability:
- Edible Red Corn: This corn, sometimes referred to as "Indian corn," is indeed edible and offers a slightly crunchier texture and earthier flavor compared to sweet corn. [Source: oneforthetable.com]
- Indian Corn: While often used decoratively, Indian corn is entirely edible. It's closer to the original corn varieties grown in the Americas and may not be as sweet as modern sweet corn. [Source: eatyourwayclean.com, quora.com, sweetgrasstradingco.com] It can be used to make hominy, polenta, cornmeal, soups, and more. [Source: sweetgrasstradingco.com]
- Ornamental Corn: Yes, ornamental corn is edible, though its taste and texture might not be as appealing as sweet corn. [Source: veryveganval.com]
- Glass Gem Corn: While technically edible, glass gem corn is generally considered less palatable than sweet corn. It's often tougher, blander, and not as juicy. It’s more often used for animal feed. [Source: reddit.com]
- Rainbow Corn: Rainbow corn, with its multiple colors, is usually tougher than sweet corn and not ideal for eating directly off the cob. [Source: lifestylecollective.org]
Taste and Texture Differences
The taste and texture of colored corn can vary significantly. Some varieties, like edible red corn, offer a unique flavor profile and slightly crunchier kernels. Others, such as glass gem corn, are less palatable, having a tougher texture and bland taste.
Preparing Colored Corn
The best way to prepare colored corn depends on the variety. Some can be boiled or grilled like regular sweet corn, while others might be better suited for grinding into flour or making hominy.
