Multicolored Indian Corn

by Dora Sofia Caputo

Title

Multicolored Indian Corn

Artist

Dora Sofia Caputo

Medium

Photograph - Photographs

Description

Multicolored Indian Corn - Dora Sofia Caputo
Image captured at a recent Agricultural and Harvest County Fair in New York.
The sound of rustling leaves and the aroma of smoke from wood-burning fireplaces are hallmarks of autumn. Really, the fall harvest season wouldn't be complete without ears of Indian corn embellishing the decor in homes and businesses. From wreaths to centerpieces, Indian corn seems to be everywhere in October and November. Everywhere, that is, except on a dinner plate. It's corn, but can you actually eat it? And where did it come from?
According to folklore, these colorful ears were named after the indigenous people of North America. They'd been cultivating it for years when they introduced it to the Europeans who arrived in the Western Hemisphere in the 15th century. But "Indian corn" isn't exclusive to the North American continent. Experts say that it grew in China, India and South America for centuries. And our ancestors didn't decorate with it -- they ate it.
Unlike the typical niblets or corn on the cob that you serve at mealtime, Indian corn isn't sweet. It's also got a pretty starchy texture when it's cooked. You could compare it to hominy, which is used to make grits. Indian corn can be ground to make flour, or the whole kernel can be reserved for popcorn. Ears with larger kernels are typically used for flour or cornmeal production, while those with small, pointy kernels are perfect for popcorn.
But Indian corn's texture and composition aren't the most unusual things about it -- its color is. Most of us are used to seeing bright yellow or golden ears of corn. How could blue, red, gold and yellow kernels co-exist on the same cob? The Indian corn you commonly find at the grocery store is one of several hybrid varieties developed within the last 50 years. These calico-patterned or speckled varieties of Indian corn result from cross-pollination of single-shaded plants. In addition to the multicolored ears, there are solid ears in shades of white, ruby, blue and black.

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October 13th, 2014

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