How To Freeze Corn

Freezing Corn

What is the correct way to freeze corn? Does it always have to be blanched?
ANSWER - Frozen corn on the cob is prepared by blanching small ears (1 1/4 inches or less in diameter) for 7 minutes in boiling water; medium size ears (1 1/4 to l 1/2 inches in diameter) for 9 minutes, and large ears (over l 1/2 inches in diameter) for 11 minutes. Cool in several changes of cold water and drain. To package, fill into quart or half-gallon freezer bags. Squeeze out air, seal, label, and freeze.

For frozen cut corn, blanch for 4 minutes, cool, and cut kernels from the cob at about three-fourths of their depth. Fill pint- or quart-size freezer bags to a level of 3 to 4 inches from their tops. Squeeze out air, leaving a 1-inch headspace, label, and freeze.



Corn kernels can also be individually frozen before packaging so that small portions can be removed from the freezer bags. Spread corn kernels on a cookie sheet or shallow pan and place in the freezer for a few hours until they are firm. Remove from the freezer and scrape the kernels into a freezer bag. Squeeze out air, seal, label, and return the frozen corn to the freezer.

Research has shown that unblanched super sweet corn can be held in frozen storage for up to 8 months without significant loss of flavor quality. Beyond 8 months of frozen storage, however, the blanched corn was preferred by a taste panel. The storage life of frozen corn is likely to vary depending on the variety used and growing conditions for a particular year.

So a good rule of thumb is that if the corn is to be eaten within the same year it is grown, it may not require blanching. However, for longer term frozen storage, blanching will result in a higher quality product. 


For more information read Let's Preserve Sweet Corn at the link below.


Let's Preserve Sweet Corn