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Coconut-creamed corn and grains: a delicious side dish

Coconut-creamed corn and grains is a vibrant vegan dish that beautifully balances the sweetness of fresh corn with the creamy richness of coconut milk. Infused with aromatic ginger, garlic, and a hint of heat from serrano chilli, this recipe is a delightful celebration of flavours that is both comforting and nourishing. The addition of cooked grains like freekeh or quinoa not only enhances the texture but also makes this dish a wholesome option for any meal.

Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or as a colourful side at gatherings, this dish is packed with nutrients and flavour. The crispy onions sprinkled on top add a satisfying crunch, while a squeeze of lime brightens the entire experience. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or as a hearty main for a plant-based feast that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients for Coconut-creamed corn and grains

  • 30 ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 serrano chilli or jalapeño, thinly sliced

  • 1 piece (7.5 cm) fresh ginger, peeled, cut into matchsticks

  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • 2 spring onions, thinly sliced, plus more for serving

  • 2.5 ml ground turmeric

  • 4 ears of corn, shucked, kernels removed

  • 240 g cooked grains (such as freekeh, farro, or quinoa)

  • 240 ml unsweetened coconut milk, plus more for serving

  • kosher salt

  • 60 ml store-bought crispy onions or shallots (such as Lars Own, French’s, or Maesri)

  • lime wedges (for serving)

How to make Coconut-creamed corn and grains

  1. Heat oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Cook the chilli, ginger, garlic, and 2 sliced scallions, tossing occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

  2. Add the turmeric and cook, stirring frequently, until darkened and fragrant, about 30 seconds.

  3. Add the corn and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook, tossing occasionally, until the corn begins to lightly brown, about 5 minutes.

  4. Add the grains to the frying pan and cook, tossing often, until heated through and beginning to crisp around the edges, about 2 minutes.

  5. Pour in 125 ml of coconut milk and season with salt. Bring to a simmer and cook, adding 1–2 tablespoons of water if needed to loosen, until the flavours have melded, about 3 minutes.

  6. Divide the corn mixture between plates or shallow bowls and drizzle with more coconut milk. Top with crispy onions and additional scallions.

  7. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Oct 2025 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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