The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate method of eating that can help with diabetes, epilepsy, autoimmune disorders, acid reflux, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and other issues. While corn is a high-carb food that is not keto-friendly, baby corn is an exception. Baby corn is tasty, filling, and low-carb, with an entire 15-oz can containing only 8g of carbohydrates, 6g of fiber, and 4g of protein. This makes it a suitable ingredient for keto-friendly recipes like cornbread.
What You'll Learn
Baby corn is keto-compatible
The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate method of eating. While regular corn is a no-go, baby corn is tasty, filling, and low-carb. An entire 15-ounce can of baby corn contains only 8 grams of carbohydrates, but 6 grams of fiber and 4 grams of protein. This means that baby corn has just 2 grams of net carbs per 100 grams, which is well within the keto diet's guidelines.
Baby corn is also a great ingredient to use in keto cooking. It is convenient, as it comes ready to use in cans, and its texture and flavor make it a tasty addition to keto-friendly dishes. For example, baby corn can be used in stir-fries, or to make keto cornbread.
Baby corn is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. It contains folate, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus, as well as vitamins A, C, B-6, and thiamin.
It is important to note that corn is considered a grain, and therefore may cause allergies or skin irritations for some individuals. However, if you are following a keto diet, baby corn can be a nutritious and tasty addition to your meals.
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Baby corn is low in calories
Baby corn is indeed low in calories. A 1/2-cup serving of baby corn contains only 25 calories, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In comparison, regular corn, which is considered a starchy vegetable, has over 60 calories in a 1/2-cup serving. Baby corn is closer in calorie content to non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and green beans.
Baby corn is also a good choice for those watching their weight. As a low-calorie food, it can help fill you up without adding excessive calories to your diet. Additionally, baby corn has a lower carb count than regular corn, with just 5 grams of carbs in a 1/2-cup serving. This makes it a good option for those on a keto diet, as it can help keep carb intake within the recommended range of no more than 50 grams of net carbs per day.
Baby corn is also a good source of essential nutrients. It provides vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron, which are important for immune health and transporting oxygen throughout the body. Furthermore, baby corn is fat-free and contains some protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and filling addition to any meal.
Baby corn is also versatile and convenient. It can be added to stir-fries, salads, and keto-friendly recipes like cornbread. Canned baby corn is readily available, but if you're concerned about sodium content, you may be able to find fresh baby corn at your local farmer's market.
In summary, baby corn is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich option that can be a tasty and healthy addition to your diet, especially if you're watching your weight or following a keto diet.
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Baby corn is a good source of fibre
Baby corn is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron. These vitamins help your body fight off infection, while iron is necessary for transporting oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.
Baby corn is also a low-starch food, with a calorie content similar to that of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and green beans. This makes it a good choice for those trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, as it can fill you up without costing too many calories.
In addition, baby corn is a good source of protein, with a 1/2-cup serving containing 1 gram. Protein is essential for making new cells, and when combined with baby corn's fibre content, it can help you feel full for longer.
The fibre in baby corn also offers a number of other health benefits. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, getting more fibre in your diet can lower your risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. Fibre has also been associated with lower body weights and can help keep you feeling full.
While baby corn is a good source of fibre and other essential nutrients, it is important to note that it is still considered a starchy vegetable due to its carb content. A 1/2-cup serving of baby corn contains 5 grams of carbohydrates, which is lower than regular corn but still significant for those on a low-carb diet.
However, for those on a ketogenic diet, baby corn can be a tasty, filling, and low-carb option. An entire 15-oz can of baby corn contains only 8 grams of carbohydrates but provides 6 grams of fibre and 4 grams of protein. This makes it a compatible food for those following a keto diet, which typically involves a high-fat, low-carb, and moderate-protein intake.
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Baby corn is a good substitute for sweet corn
Baby corn is harvested early, while the stalks are still small and immature, and it is typically eaten whole, including the cob. It is commonly used in stir-fry dishes and can be consumed raw, pickled, or cooked. The low starch content of baby corn means it has lower sugar and carb levels than its mature counterpart, making it a healthier option overall.
Baby corn is also easier to prepare and use in recipes. Unlike sweet corn, which needs to be cooked and removed from the cob, baby corn can be conveniently sourced from a can and chopped as needed. This makes it a time-saving ingredient for busy cooks.
In addition to its dietary benefits, baby corn has a positive impact on the environment. It is often grown as a secondary crop, utilizing the space between sweet corn or field corn plants. This efficient use of agricultural resources contributes to sustainable farming practices.
For those who enjoy the taste of corn but want to maintain their keto diet, baby corn is a versatile and flavorful solution. It can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, adding a crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness without the carb-laden consequences.
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Baby corn is easy to prepare
Baby corn is a keto-friendly food, and it's easy to prepare! It is tiny, sweet corn harvested before the corn has matured. This means it has a lower starch content and therefore lower sugar and carbs.
Baby corn can be eaten raw, or cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some simple methods to prepare baby corn:
Boiling
First, fill a saucepan with water and bring it to a boil. Then, add the baby corn to the pan, cover it, and reduce the heat to medium. Cook the corn for 4-5 minutes, until it is tender but still crisp. Drain the water and serve the baby corn hot with some melted butter, if desired.
Steaming
Fill a medium pot with 2 inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the baby corn in a steamer basket and set it over the pot. Cover and steam for 3-6 minutes, until tender but still crisp. Remove the corn from the heat and serve hot with butter or olive oil.
Stir-Frying
Heat some olive oil or another cooking oil of your choice in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the baby corn and cook for 2-4 minutes, stirring continuously, until tender and golden brown. Drain the oil and serve hot.
Roasting
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baby corn on a baking sheet lined with aluminium foil and drizzle with sesame oil. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and golden. Serve hot.
Baby corn is a versatile ingredient that can be added to stir-fries, salads, or enjoyed on its own as a snack. It is a tasty, low-carb option that fits well within a keto diet.
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Frequently asked questions
Baby corn is keto-friendly, unlike mature corn, which is not recommended on the keto diet. Baby corn is tasty, filling, and low-carb. An entire 15 oz can of baby corn contains only 8g of carbohydrates, but 6g of fiber and 4g of protein.
The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate method of eating. It involves eating foods high in fats and proteins and restricting your intake of carbohydrates.
The keto diet recommends eating foods high in healthy fats and proteins, such as olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds, and dark, leafy greens.