Bacon Jalapeño Corn Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 slices bacon
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 cups fresh corn kernels
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper, any color
• 1/3 cup diced red onion
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Start by placing the bacon in a large skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally until the bacon is evenly browned and crispy, about 10 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Pour out all but 1 tablespoon of bacon fat from the skillet.

Next, add the butter to the skillet and allow it to melt. Stir in the fresh corn kernels, diced bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeo. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn becomes tender but still retains some crispness.

Season the mixture with dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything until well combined.

Once the corn mixture is seasoned, crumble or chop the cooked bacon and stir half of it into the skillet. Reserve the remaining bacon to sprinkle on top of the dish later. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	8g Fat	27g Carbs	7g Protein
189	10% Daily Value	10% Daily Value	15% Daily Value

Per Serving Breakdown

• Total Fat: 8g (10% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (15% DV)
• Cholesterol: 16mg (5% DV)
• Sodium: 222mg (10% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 27g (10% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% DV)
• Total Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 7g (15% DV)
• Vitamin C: 35mg (39% DV)
• Calcium: 17mg (1% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (5% DV)
• Potassium: 370mg (8% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Origins of Bacon Jalapeo Corn

Bacon Jalapeo Corn is a vibrant American dish that marries the sweetness of corn with the smoky richness of bacon and the subtle heat of jalapeos. Its origins are closely tied to Southern and Southwestern United States cuisine, where corn is a staple and spicy flavors are widely embraced. The combination of these ingredients reflects a culinary tradition of balancing sweet, salty, and spicy elements, a hallmark of regional comfort foods that evolved from both Native American and European influences.

Regional Characteristics

This dish carries distinct regional characteristics depending on where it is prepared. In the Southern U.S., bacon is often rendered until crispy to add a deep, savory flavor, while in the Southwest, jalapeos provide a pronounced kick. Bell peppers and fresh herbs, like basil, are sometimes substituted with local varieties, giving the dish a slightly different aroma and color profile. The use of fresh, in-season corn is a key feature, making it a popular summer side dish across these regions.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While there are many corn-based side dishes, Bacon Jalapeo Corn stands out due to its precise balance of textures and flavors. Unlike traditional creamed corn, it is not overly creamy, preserving the crispness of the kernels. Compared to Mexican-style esquites, which often include lime, cotija cheese, and chili powder, this recipe focuses on the interplay between smoky bacon and spicy jalapeo, creating a simpler yet robust flavor profile.

Typical Serving Context

Bacon Jalapeo Corn is most often served as a side dish for barbecues, family dinners, and summer gatherings. It pairs particularly well with grilled meats, roasted poultry, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Its quick preparation time and eye-catching presentation make it a convenient choice for both casual weeknight meals and festive occasions. Garnishing with fresh basil or additional crispy bacon elevates its visual appeal and flavor depth.

Interesting Facts

• The combination of corn and bacon has been enjoyed in the U.S. since the 19th century, when preserved pork was commonly paired with seasonal vegetables.
• Jalapeos in the dish are often de-seeded to control heat, allowing the flavor to enhance without overwhelming the sweetness of the corn.
• This recipe has gained popularity on modern food blogs and social media due to its simplicity, versatility, and the satisfying contrast of textures.
• Despite being a modern American creation, its flavor profile reflects a blend of Native American, European, and Mexican influences, making it a subtle example of culinary fusion.
• Some variations add cheese, lime juice, or cilantro, demonstrating the dishs adaptability to personal taste and regional preferences.

FAQ about Bacon Jalapeño Corn Recipe

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