Olivia Taylor
A Glass full of Goodness: Corn-based Beverages
Let’s face it, corn is one those staples that have truly shaped our food culture. From the buttery corn-on-the-cob at summer barbecues to the sweet comfort of cornbread – it has strategically claimed a significant realm in our diet. But, have you ever considered having your corn in a glass? No, seriously. Buckle in, because today we’re talking about corn, not on our plates, but in our glasses.
A Drinkable Delight
Many cultures around the world have found genius ways of integrating corn into their drinks. You might be familiar with bourbon, a whiskey primarily made from corn. Typically, bourbons must have a grain mixture that’s at least 51% corn. Factoring in the fermentation and distillation process, what you’re drinking is essentially corn!
The Science behind Corn Drinks
The process begins with corn starch being broken down into sugar. Once this step is complete, yeast is added to convert the sugar into alcohol, the key ingredient for any liquor. Then, the mixture goes through a distillation process, which purifies it and improves the overall quality of the drink.
Corn-based Drinks across Cultures
Chicha Morada – Peru
Peru offers the world a unique non-alcoholic beverage called Chicha Morada. Made from purple corn, this drink is sweet, slightly tart, and packed with spices like cinnamon and cloves. If you have a sweet tooth, this Peruvian delicacy might just become your new best friend.
Tedzuki – Japan
A derivative of the popular Japanese sake, Tedzuki is a type of sake brewed with corn. It has a sweet, smooth taste with a slightly higher alcohol content than most sakes. Its delightful taste has proved popular among a rising number of sake enthusiasts.
Bourbon – America
In America, corn is transmuted into bourbon, an alcohol that’s become iconic to the country’s culture. It holds a rough yet sophisticated appeal for all whiskey lovers.
Go Beyond Alcoholic Drinks
While corn-based alcoholic drinks are great, don’t limit yourself to just alcohol. There are a plethora of non-alcoholic corn beverages around the world. For example, in Mexico, Atole is a traditional breakfast beverage made from masala (a variety of corn), water, cane sugar, and cinnamon. Similarly, Korea has a traditional corn silk tea known as Oksusu cha famous for its mild and lightly sweet flavor.
Benefits of Corn in your Glass
Beyond the delicious taste, drinking corn offers some significant health benefits. Corn is rich in fiber and contains useful amounts of several vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C, for instance, is an essential nutrient well-known for boosting the immune system. Corn also boasts another potent antioxidant, lutein, which has been credited with improving eye health.
Your Turn
Now that you’re aware of how corn isn’t limited to just your plate, why not give it a try? The next time you grab a beverage, consider swapping it for some corn bliss! Just remove the cob, process and pour it into your glass. You might just find out that it’s ‘corn-tastic’!
