Let's Eat Corn!

Corn is one of the foods containing carbohydrates, and it can even be used as a rice substitute. Therefore, it can be said that corn is a staple food. This food also has a higher fiber content than rice. Some types of corn have a lower glycemic index compared to white rice. In particular, whole corn or minimally processed corn tends to have a lower glycemic index. Interestingly, corn belongs to the grass family.

Historically, corn originated in Mexico nearly 10,000 years ago. Evidence of this is the discovery of ancient corn archaeological remains there. These findings demonstrate the domestication process of corn from a wild plant called teosinte (a wild grass believed to be the ancestor of corn). Through teosinte, we can see the corn we consume today. This shows that the indigenous peoples of Mexico developed corn varieties adapted to their environmental conditions and needs.

Corn exists all over the world because it was spread through trade and exploration. In Indonesia, corn arrived because it was brought by the Portuguese centuries ago, around the 16th century. At that time, they introduced corn to the people of Java and Maluku. Since then, corn began to be cultivated in Indonesia. Therefore, corn became an important food crop after rice. Subsequently, Indonesia became one of the largest corn producers in the world.

I myself have been familiar with corn since childhood. In the past, I liked to buy grilled corn on the roadside in the afternoon. It tasted delicious, especially when added with spiciness. At that time, the distinctive taste of grilled corn made me happy. Enjoying it was a pleasant moment. The aroma of grilled corn always evokes beautiful memories through its distinctive taste.

Corn rice is one way we enjoy corn. It tastes good with a slightly coarse texture and a savory taste. Combined with sweet potato leaf sambal or gudangan (Javanese boiled vegetables with peanut sauce), the taste is unparalleled. I even found fried corn rice. Although I initially thought it was strange, when I tried it, it turned out to be delicious.

Corn is an important food source. For many people, corn is a source of livelihood. In addition to being human food, corn is also used as animal feed. Thus, corn is very meaningful. A source of life for farmers, a source of inspiration for artists, and an art for chefs.

In the last few months, I've enjoyed eating boiled corn. Its deliciousness is addictive. It's very, very delicious. Initially, I ate corn that was so sweet that I couldn't believe there was such corn. But from that disbelief, I became addicted to eating corn. That's my story about corn. Let's eat corn!