Corn has been a popular vegetable for thousands of years because of its versatility in menus ranging from soups and chowders to on the cob fresh off the barbecue or grill.
Unfortunately, corn really does not get the credit it should for its health benefits, given its sweetness and so often smothered with butter. Full of fiber, corn makes you feel full longer between meals. It has been suggested that corn helps protect against colon cancer, given the fact it feeds healthy bacteria in the digestive tract. Even popcorn they say, has its benefits besides being a delightful choice for movies. It has been known to lower the risk of diverticulitis.
But for the eyes, corn is rich in vitamin C, that antioxidant that protects body cells from damage and wards off heart disease. Yellow corn is loaded with lutein and zeaxanthin both of which help present any damage to the lens that leads to cataracts. It’s the color that matters in corn and so many other fruits and vegetables because it’s really the color that has the chemical that carry the antioxidants. Corn also has vitamins B, E and K, and those great mineral, magnesium and potassium.
Chef Rob is a chef who often appears on ZOOM programs from libraries and other organizations and is worth watching. His Turkey Corn Chowder provides plenty of carrots, corn, and scallions that are so good because of the protein it produces essential for the retina enabling it to absorb more light and prevent night blindness and other disorders.
Turkey Corn Chowder with Scallions
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 stalks celery, diced
1 red potato, diced
3 Cups turkey broth
2 Cups canned corn, drained (or 2 ears fresh, shucked)
3 Cups heavy cream
1 ½ Cups cooked turkey, chopped
5 scallions, chopped
7 Tbls. Flour
7 Tbls. Water
Bring broth, carrots, celery, and potato to a boil, then cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Add heavy cream and bring to a boil again.
Whisk together flour and water and add mixture slowly to the pot until you have a creamy consistency.
Add corn and turkey, pepper to taste.
Put in bowls and garnish with scallions.
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