Looking for a delicious and easy side dish? Look no further than corn pudding! One ounce of this tasty dish contains just 37 calories, making it a great addition to any meal. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with flavor, corn pudding is a classic comfort food that's perfect for any occasion.
But is corn pudding healthy? While it's not the most nutritious side dish out there, corn pudding can offer some nutritional benefits, particularly when made with fresh, whole ingredients. Here's everything you need to know about this popular side dish.
In this article, we'll explore what corn pudding is, how to make it, some variations on the classic recipe, and more. Whether you're a longtime fan of corn pudding or you're trying it for the first time, you're sure to love this creamy, delicious dish.
What is Corn Pudding?
Corn pudding is a classic Southern side dish that's made with creamed corn, cornmeal, and a few other simple ingredients. The result is a creamy, custardy dish that's sweet and savory at the same time. Some corn pudding recipes also include cheese, bacon, or other flavorful additions. Corn pudding is often served at Thanksgiving and other holiday meals, but it can be enjoyed any time of year. It's the perfect complement to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or any other hearty main dish.
How Many Calories Does 1 Oz Corn Pudding Have?
One ounce of corn pudding contains approximately 37 calories. Of course, this can vary depending on the recipe and the ingredients used. If you're watching your calories, be sure to pay attention to portion sizes and serving suggestions when enjoying corn pudding.
Is Corn Pudding Healthy?
While corn pudding isn't exactly a health food, it can offer some nutritional benefits when made with fresh, whole ingredients. Corn is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and other important nutrients, and using low-fat milk or cream can help keep the calorie count in check. However, most corn pudding recipes call for added sugar and fat, which can offset these benefits. If you're looking for a healthier version of this classic side dish, consider using less sugar, swapping in a non-dairy milk, or adding extra veggies like diced bell peppers or jalapenos.
Ingredients in Corn Pudding
Corn pudding is made with a few simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. These may include creamed corn, cornmeal, sugar, butter, milk or cream, eggs, and a few seasonings like salt and pepper. Some recipes may also call for cheese, hot sauce, or other flavorful additions.
How to Make Corn Pudding
Making corn pudding is quick and easy. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 can of creamed corn, 1/2 cup of cornmeal, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1/2 cup of milk or cream, and 2 beaten eggs. Stir until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!
Of course, there are countless variations on this classic recipe. You could try adding cheese, bacon, jalapenos, or any other flavorful ingredients to make your corn pudding truly your own.
Serving Suggestions for Corn Pudding
Corn pudding is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a wide range of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:
- Grilled steak, chicken, or pork
- Roasted vegetables
- Fried chicken or fish
- Barbecue ribs
- Taco salad or other Tex-Mex dishes
Variations of Corn Pudding
Corn pudding is a classic dish with endless variations. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Southwestern corn pudding with jalapenos and cheddar cheese
- Bacon and green onion corn pudding
- Greek-style corn pudding with feta cheese and fresh herbs
- Cajun-style corn pudding with Andouille sausage and hot sauce
- Vegetarian corn pudding with mushrooms, caramelized onions, and Gruyere cheese
No matter which variation you choose, you're sure to love this delicious, comforting side dish!
History of Corn Pudding
Corn pudding has been a staple of Southern cuisine for generations. The dish likely originated with Native American communities, who were known to create similar dishes with cornmeal and other local ingredients. As European settlers arrived in the region, they brought their own culinary traditions with them, which soon merged with local cuisines to create a unique blend of flavors and ingredients. Today, corn pudding remains a beloved and iconic Southern dish that's enjoyed by people all over the world.
Nutritional Benefits of Corn Pudding
While corn pudding isn't exactly a health food, it can offer some nutritional benefits when made with fresh, whole ingredients. Here are a few of the nutritional highlights of this classic side dish:
- Corn is a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
- Using low-fat milk or cream can reduce the calorie count.
- Adding extra veggies like bell peppers or jalapenos can boost the nutritional value.
Corn Pudding vs Other Side Dishes
Wondering how corn pudding stacks up against other popular side dishes? Here's a quick comparison:
| Side Dish | calories per serving (1/2 cup) |
|---|
| Corn pudding | 200-250 |
| Mashed potatoes | 120-150 |
| Green bean casserole | 150-200 |
| Sweet potato casserole | 300-400 |
As you can see, corn pudding falls somewhere in the middle when it comes to calorie count. While it may not be the most nutritious option, it's a delicious and satisfying side dish that's sure to please your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Oz Corn Pudding
What are the ingredients in 1 oz corn pudding?
1 oz corn pudding typically contains cornmeal, milk, egg, sugar, salt, and butter or oil.
Is 1 oz corn pudding gluten-free?
It depends on the ingredients used to make the pudding. Cornmeal is naturally gluten-free, but some brands may be processed in facilities that also process wheat products. It's important to check the ingredient labels or ask the person who made it to ensure it is gluten-free.
How many carbs are in 1 oz corn pudding?
1 oz corn pudding usually contains around 7 grams of carbohydrates.
What is the nutritional value of 1 oz corn pudding?
In addition to 37 calories and 7 grams of carbohydrates, 1 oz corn pudding typically contains 1.1 grams of protein, 0.9 grams of fat, and 0.5 grams of fiber.
How should I store leftover 1 oz corn pudding?
Leftover corn pudding should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little bit of milk to keep it moist.