Cope's Corn: A Classic Canned Cream Corn
Canned corn offers a quick and convenient way to enjoy this popular vegetable year-round. And when it comes to canned corn, one of the most iconic brands is Cope's corn. With its distinctive label featuring a corn farmer, it has been a staple in many pantries for generations.
History of Cope's Corn
Cope's corn traces its roots back to 1899 when Italian immigrant Joseph Cope founded a small canning company in Centerville, Indiana. They specialized in canning the tender sweet corn kernels grown across Indiana and Illinois farms at the peak of freshness to be enjoyed year-round.
Recognizable for its vintage label, Cope's cream style corn became popular as American home cooking expanded in the 20th century. It remains family-owned and continues hand-packing corn to this day.
What Makes Cope's Corn Special
There are a few key things that distinguish the Cope's brand from generic canned corn and contribute to its loyal following:
- Smooth, creamy texture from whole corn pureeing
- Prime sweet corn selection and timing
- Minimal processing to preserve nutrition and flavor
- Signature sweet and buttery taste
- Very affordable pricing for consistent quality
Nutrition Profile of Canned Corn
Understanding the nutrition packed inside a can of corn allows you to enjoy it to its fullest as part of a healthy diet.
Calories and Macronutrients
A standard serving of canned or cooked corn contains around 100-120 calories consisting mostly of digestible carbs and a small amount of plant-based protein. Fat content is very low at under 1g per serving.
Fiber, Vitamins and Minerals
Canned corn offers good amounts of satiating fiber at 4g per serving. It also provides antioxidants like vitamins C and E plus folate, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, iron and more minerals.
Corn as Starch vs Whole Grain
The natural sugars in corn convert to starch during canning. So while corn counts as a starchy vegetable, it provides vitamins and minerals similar to whole grains that support health.
Taste, Texture and Uses for Canned Corn
Understanding the best practices for incorporating canned corn like Cope's into recipes allows you to maximize both its convenience and flavor value.
Ideal Uses in Cooking and Baking
The smooth, creamy texture makes canned corn ideal for:
- Chilis, stews, soups
- Casseroles, stir fries, fried rice
- Quesadillas, tacos, burritos
- Corn cakes, breads, muffins
- Fruit salsas, salads, slaws
Tips for Bringing Out Best Flavor
Allowing canned corn's signature sweetness to shine through comes down to a few simple tips:
- Look for no salt added or low sodium options
- Rinse before use to remove excess starch
- Fold into dishes at end to prevent overcooking
- Season with herbs, spices and acidic ingredients
- Balancing sweetness with heat brings out the best
Storage and Preparation of Canned Corn
Proper storage, use and reheating helps canned corn like Cope's maintain prime texture, safety and taste.
Shelf Life
Sealed, commercially canned corn will stay fresh in a cool, dry pantry for 2-5 years thanks to the canning process killing off bacteria and sealing out new contaminants.
Reheating Safely
To enjoy canned corn while avoiding risk of botulism poisoning:
- Refrigerate after opening
- Use opened cans within 4 days
- Discard any bulging or leaking cans
- Heat fully to boiling when reheating
Freezing and Thawing
For even more convenience from your canned corn purchase, transfer any leftovers to an airtight freezer bag or container. It will keep for 6-12 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Comparing Can vs. Frozen vs. Fresh Corn
Understanding how canned corn differs from its other forms allows you to choose the best option for your needs.
Nutrition
Fresh corn has slightly higher vitamin C content which degrades over time after picking. But minerals, fiber and other vitamins are comparable across versions.
Cost
Pound for pound, canned and frozen corn is more affordable than fresh corn on the cob. Cope's corn offers especially good value year-round.
Convenience
Canned corn requires zero prep - just open and use! Frozen needs thawing first. Fresh corn takes more time to cook and debusk.
Taste
The sweet flavor and creamy texture of products like Cope's corn makes it perfect when you crave that classic corn taste. Fresh and frozen offer added crunch.
Is Canned Corn Healthy?
With all its nutrition and benefits, Cope's corn and other canned cream style corn can be part of a balanced, healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation. It offers a budget-friendly way to incorporate veggies and nutrients into favorite recipes!
FAQs
Is Cope's corn gluten-free?
Yes, Cope's corn and most canned cream style corn products are naturally gluten-free and safe for gluten sensitive diets.
Does canned corn go bad?
Properly sealed, unopened canned corn stays fresh for 2-5 years stored in a cool, dry pantry. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3-4 days.
Is canned corn better than frozen?
Both canned and frozen corn offer similar nutritional value. Canned corn provides more convenience while frozen corn has a fresher taste and texture.
Should canned corn be rinsed?
Yes, rinsing canned corn before cooking removes some excess starch and enhances the naturally sweet flavor. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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