A Rainbow of Flavor: What Does Glass Gem Corn Taste Like?

Words are inadequate to describe the beauty of the colorful and translucent corn kernels that became viral on the internet years ago.

Wondering which corn variant we’re talking about?

It’s a variant of flint corn and is famously known as Glass Gem corn.

This multicolored corn has created quite a buzz over the years.

Undoubtedly, this corn is a beauty.

But does it taste as good as it looks? It probably is the question asked by many.

This post will answer what Glass Gem corn tastes like.

So, without further ado, let’s get into it.

What is Glass Gem Corn?

Glass Gem corn is a cross-breed of different varieties of corn invented by Oklahoma-based farmer Carl Barnes.

This corn is also known as calico or Indian corn.

Out of curiosity, Carl collected varieties of corn and then cross-bred, resulting in multicolored kernels.

This corn is smaller than regular corn measuring 5cm to 20 cm long.

The kernels consist of various colors such as yellow, ruby, white, emerald, amethyst, etc.

Glass Gem corn is available from September through November.

Unlike regular corn, it’s often consumed dried instead of having it fresh.

Dried kernels are processed, which have relatively higher starch content.

Because of its chewy texture, fresh Glass Gem corn is deemed inedible.

It’s not poisonous, though, just not the best taste when eaten fresh.

What Does Glass Gem Corn Taste Like?

Glass Gem corns have chewy textures and have a bland taste.

The outer layer of the kernels is hard but soft inside.

This corn doesn’t have a specific taste but is somewhat known for its high starch content.

The kernels are mostly dried for processing to make starch powder.

Most people don’t like the taste of this multicolored corn because of its chewy texture.

Glass Gem corn may not be as tasty as regular corn, but the taste may vary for some people.

You can have it in its natural state if you are okay with a chewy texture.

If you’re lucky enough, some of them might be slightly sweet.

Glass Gem corn might not be the best choice if you like to have it fresh.

Processed ones are great to incorporate with different ingredients.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t taste as flavorful as it looks.

But one cannot deny the nutritional benefit it provides.

However, you can enhance its taste by mixing it with different ingredients.

Various recipes can be made using processed Glass Gem corn.

Depending on how you prepare, the taste may vary.

This corn may have a bland taste, but when combined with other ingredients, it makes it flavorful.

• Nutritional value of Glass Gem corn.

Like any corn variety, it’s a rich source of fiber.

Additionally, it contains iron, zinc, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

All these nutrients are beneficial to your health.

For instance, phosphorus is good for teeth and bones, copper is for maintaining metabolism, and magnesium is for nerve regulation.

How to Cook Glass Gem Corn?

Fresh Glass Gem corns are chewy and may not be the best way to have them.

But what you can do is dry the kernels and then make popcorn.

It’s one of the best options and pops it pretty well.

Here is how you can pop corn from Glass Gem corn:

• Heat oil in a pot for three to five minutes, depending on the heat. .
• Once the oil is hot enough, put the dried kernel and cover it with a lid. It will start popping after some time. .
• Take the pot off the gas stove once the popping sounds lower. .

Dried kernels are also processed to make cornmeal, grits, and hominy.

Because of its higher content of starch, it’s used in various recipes.

Some recipe ideas include Hominy casserole, vegetable-mixed cornmeal fritters, and cornmeal griddle cakes.

These are some of the easiest recipes you can try making through processed Glass Gem corn kernels.

Besides, you can make a rich and thick soup by adding other ingredients, including vegetables, herbs, and aromatic spices.

How to Buy Glass Gem Corn?

Wondering how to buy Glass Gem corn? Sadly, it’s not available in most of the grocery stores or supermarkets near your area.

It can be pretty challenging to get this corn from stores.

Fortunately, online stores like Amazon and Etsy sell Glass Gem corn.

They will deliver the item directly to your given address.

Another better option would be getting from independent farmers.

Some of the renowned sellers are:

• Sow True Seeds, North Carolina.
• Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds, Missouri.
• Premier Seeds Direct, United Kingdom.

Depending on your convenience, get the corn from a suitable mode.

You can also buy the seeds and grow them in your backyard.

If you have a spacious outdoor, planting these seeds would be great.

That way, you can have it whenever you want.

Moreover, you can store the dried Glass Gem corn seeds for longer.

But ensure that it’s kept in a tightly sealed container.

For gardening enthusiasts, you can grow Gem Glass corn and harvest it.

While doing so, ensure that it receives sufficient sunlight.

It may not be a simple process as you have to give time, get rid of weeds, and water it regularly.

But it’s worth giving it a shot if you’re up for it.

Gardening is therapeutic as it keeps your mind occupied and de-stress.

Besides, you can monetize it by selling the corn if you have enough to spare.

Final Thought

Glass Gem corn is famously known for its colorful kernels.

It’s a beautiful sight, but the taste might be bland with higher starch content.

It’s also not the best choice to have it in its natural state because of the chewy texture.

Hence, the kernels are dried mainly for processing.

The processed corn is applicable in various recipes.

Concluding the article, we hope it was helpful and answered your questions about Glass Gem corn and its taste.

Give it a shot if you haven’t tried this corn yet.

You can order online or visit your local farmers.