It is the peak of harvesting fresh, sweet corn and no other place would focus on this agricultural commodity than Bunkie, Louisiana.  Sweet corn is grown commercially in fields and many home gardens.  You can find fresh corn at roadside stands or visit farmer’s markets—Bunkie: 1st & 3rd Saturday in June (318) 346-2575; and Marksville: every Saturday morning in June (318) 253-8599—for the golden product.

I have selected a couple of recipes featuring corn since it is fresh and plentiful.  I also like it simply fresh boiled with a little butter or oven roasted as well.

Maque Chou (Tina Blood/Feeding the Flock II)

12 Ears Tender Fresh Corn
1 Large Onion, Chopped
1 Bell Pepper Or Banana Pepper
1 Fresh Tomato, Diced Small
1 Clove Garlic, Minced
1 Cup Milk
1 Stick Margarine
Creole Seasoning
Tasso

Cut corn off cob.  Heat margarine in Dutch oven; add onion, pepper, garlic and tasso; sauté until tender.  Add corn, tomato and season to taste.  Cook mixture over medium heat for 1 ½ hours.  Stir constantly, adding a little mild from time to time to keep mixture soft.

Corn Fritters (Feeding the Flock II)

2 Cups Fresh Corn
2 Eggs
1 Tablespoon (or more) Sugar
2-3 Chopped Green Onions
3-4 Crisp Bacon Slices(Save Drippings)
Salt and Pepper, To Taste
Oil (For Frying)
1/2 To 1 Cup Flour

Combine all ingredients.  Make a test fritter for taste and adjust ingredients to your liking.  Fry in oil with a little of the bacon drippings mixed in.

Recipes were selected from Lone Pine Assembly of God cookbook Feeding the Flock II which is one of the many cookbooks offered for sale at the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism gift shop located at 8592 Hwy 1, Ste. 3 in Mansura.  Call us for shipping information at (800) 833-4195 or (318) 964-2025.