What is dried corn?
In this brief article, we will provide an answer to the question, “What is dried corn”? We will further elaborate on the taste and health benefits of dried corn.
What is dried corn?
Dried corn is just like normal corn. The main difference between both is the absence of moisture in dried corn. This moisture is removed under slow heating. After removing moisture, corn becomes hard.
What is the taste of dried corn?
Although water is absent in dried corn, the taste of dried corn is almost the same as that of normal corn. The taste of dried corn is sweet. It is also a bit crunchy.
The difference between normal and dried corn is the difference in texture. The kernels of dried corn are clear and provide a fresh taste in cooking.
Dried corn is also called Hominy. This harvesting of dried corn is carried out at the matured stage. These corns can also be dried manually.
What methods are used to dry corn?
These are the methods used in drying corn.
Airflow: To remove moisture from the corn, the air is very effective. First, corn is placed in a bin. Then by using fans, the air is forced into the bottom section of this bin. Before using this method, you must make sure that air reaches all parts of the corn.
Otherwise, this uneven drying of corn can result in spoilage. A fan is chosen according to the type of corn and its drying requirement.
In case a large fan is used, then we will require more energy. This energy need is fulfilled in the form of electricity from the fan motor and electricity from the air heater. But small-sized fans take a lot of time to dry. Due to this, a higher flow rate is required. More cost will be required for this.
Batch and continuous flow drying: To carry out this method, corn is dried in the drying bin in daily batches. After drying, these are cooled. Then it is transferred to the storage bin.
This method can pass air in a large quantity through a shallow corn depth. Thus dryness of corn takes place easily. There is no need for the storage of wet corn in this method.
Layer drying: The drying of newly harvested corn takes place in layers in this method. Firstly an initial corn layer is placed in a drying bin. After that additional layers of wet grains are added periodically. To carry out this method, a bin, a fan, a heating unit, and a perforated drying floor are required along with a sweep auger.
One of the main benefits of this technique is that it is very efficient when it comes to the amount of heat required for drying. Besides this, corn also stays in the storage bin after drying. Less cost is required to carry out this process. The disadvantage of this system is that it is very slow.
The slowness of the system may also affect the harvesting rate, and eliminate the possibility of multiple uses of the same bin during the drying season.
What are the health benefits of dried corn?
These are the health benefits of dried corn.
Presence of carbs: The prime component of corn is carbs. Among these carbs, starch is present in abundance. The Glycemic index of dried corn is low, thus it keeps blood sugar levels in control.
Fibers: Hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin are the main fibers present in dried corn. These fibers keep us full for a longer period. Thus aid in losing weight.
Proteins: Zein is present in abundance in dried corn. This protein finds several uses in the production of adhesives, inks, and coating for candies.
Manganese: A sufficient amount of manganese present in dried corn is essential to carry out normal functions of the body.
Phosphorus: Phosphorus present in dried corn plays an essential role in the growth of the body. Besides this, it also regulates our body tissues.
Protects from cardiovascular diseases: Dried corn has the potential to provide protection against cardiovascular diseases mainly diverticular disease. In this disease, pouches are made in the walls of the colon. Flatulence and cramps are the common symptoms of this disease.
What are the downsides of dried corn?
These are the downsides of dried corn.
Mycotoxins: A high amount of mycotoxin present in dried corn enhances the risk of cancer and neural tube defects. These defects can lead to the death of an individual.
Phytic acid: Phytic acid present in dried corn is injurious for health. This is because it stops the absorption of some minerals like iron and zinc.
Other FAQs about Corn that you may be interested in.
How long does cooked corn on the cob last in the fridge
How long does cooked corn last
Conclusion
In this brief article, we have provided an answer to the question “What is dried corn”? We have further elaborated on the taste and health benefits of dried corn.
