Corn Wheels

Time: About 20 minutes

Big Idea:
Discover how a simple summertime favorite—corn on the cob—can be transformed into a fun and flavorful snack with creative seasoning blends! In this hands-on cooking activity, kids will practice basic kitchen skills like cutting, steaming, measuring, and mixing while exploring how herbs, spices, and oils change the taste of food. It’s a delicious way to learn about food science, cultural flavors, and healthy eating—right from your own kitchen!

What You’ll Need:
• 2 ears of corn on the cob, shucked
• ½ cup water
• ½ tsp coarse salt

Seasoning Blends (Choose One or Try Several!):
Cheesy Pizza Corn Wheels
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning mix

Herb Ranch
• 1 Tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1/2 tsp dried dill
• 1/4 tsp coarse salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder

Sweet BBQ
• 1 Tbsp butter or coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp onion powder or garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp coarse salt

Cinnamon “Churro”
• 1 Tbsp butter or coconut oil, melted
• 2 tsp coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp coarse salt

Part 1: Make the Corn

1. Cut Corn into Wheels:
   With adult supervision, use a long serrated knife to trim about 1/4-inch off each end of the corn cob. Then, carefully cut each cob into 5 to 6 thick rounds. These are your corn “wheels”!
2. Steam the Corn:
   Place the corn wheels into a pot with ½ cup of water and sprinkle the salt on top. Cover with a lid and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until the corn is tender. Drain the corn and place it into a large mixing bowl.

Part 2: Make the Seasonings and Coat the Corn

1. Choose a Seasoning Mix:
   Select one of the seasoning blends listed above. Use measuring spoons to portion out the ingredients into a small bowl. Mix well.
2. Coat the Corn:
   Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the warm corn wheels and gently toss until coated. Then sprinkle in half of your seasoning mix and toss again. Taste and adjust with more seasoning if desired. Enjoy your flavorful corn snack warm!

Discussion Topics:

1. Where Does Corn Come From?
   Talk about how corn grows and what part of the plant we eat. Is corn a vegetable, grain, or both?
2. Which Flavor Was Your Favorite and Why?
   Compare the sweet, savory, and herby flavors. What did you like best? Would you change anything next time?