Botanical Name	Zea Mays
Alternative Names	Maiz Morado, Kculli, black Mexican corn, black maize, black Aztec corn
Origin	South America (Peru and Mexico)
Taste	Mildly sweeter than yeow corn
Texture	Nutty
Structure	15 to 30 cm long cobs
How to use	Boil, steam, or roast
Color	Due to the presence of anthocyanins
Nutritional Value	Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Dietary fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, and Vitamin B9.

Black corn, also known as black maize or black Aztec corn, is a variety of corn with dark purple to black-colored kernels. Maiz Morado, Kculli, and black Mexican corn are some other black corn alternative names. Moreover, its botanical name is zea mays, since it belongs to the same species as the yellow corn. This pigmented corn variety grows well in warm temperatures, requiring moderate to high rainfall. 

Taste/Texture: Black corn is mildly sweeter than regular yellow corn and has a nutty texture. It is known for its subtle flavor. 

Structure: The structure of black maize is similar to regular yellow corn, except for the dark color. The cobs are around 15 to 30 cm long, which may again vary depending on the type. Within 90 to 95 days, the kernels reach maturity, indicating they are ready for harvesting. 

How to Use: Boil, steam, or roast black corn but do not consume it raw. 

Black Corn Origin 

Black Corn in India

Since it grows well in warm temperatures, the government of Madhya Pradesh, India permitted farmers to cultivate black corn, along with red and brown. However, these corn varieties have been prepared at the agricultural university, located in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. The research team collected indigenous varieties from different regions of the state and prepared black, red, and brown varieties. 

The Reason Behind Black Corn’s Dark Color  

Wondered about the color of black corn? 

The dark purple to black color is due to the high concentration of anthocyanins. 

Anthocyanins are a group of antioxidants and pigments that give purple, red, and blue color to fruits, vegetables, flowers, and more. 

As a member of the flavonoid family, anthocyanins are rich in antioxidants, which are essential to fighting against free radicals that cause oxidative stress. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat chronic diseases caused by inflammation, such as type 2 diabetes and heart diseases. 

Some other health benefits of anthocyanins include lowered blood pressure, improved brain function, and reduced risk of certain cancers. 

Black Corn Benefits and Nutritional Value 

Black corn is rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. 

• Iron helps improve hemoglobin levels, prevents anemia, reduces fatigue, and improves concentration.  
• Magnesium regulates muscle and nerve functions, maintains blood sugar levels, and strengthens bones.  
• Phosphorus builds strong bones and teeth and protects the heart, nerves and urinary tract. 
• Dietary fiber lowers cholesterol and GI, keeps weight under control, and normalizes bowel movements. 
• Vitamin A fosters healthy vision, immune system, and bone health.  
• Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) helps manage diabetes, fight depression, improve memory, and reduce the risk of heart disease. 
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) plays a vital role in energy production and promoting healthy skin, eyes, nerves, and muscles. 
• Vitamin B3 (Niacin) improves blood fat levels, reduces blood pressure, boosts brain function, and helps treat acne.
• Vitamin B9 (Folate) produces red and white blood cells in bone marrow, maintains brain health, and reduces the risk of hypertension. 

Black Corn Usage

You can incorporate black corn in your recipes just like yellow corn. The two most classic yellow corn recipes followed in India are: 

1. Roasted corn topped with butter or ghee followed by salt and lemon. 
2. Boiled corn with salt, black pepper, and chat masala. 

Instead of yellow corn, you can use black corn for these recipes.  

Slice off cooked black corn kernels, and you can use them in salads, tacos, soups, burritos, salsas, and dips. Additionally, you can grind black corn into cornmeal and make Indian flatbread, chips, breads, fritters, and much more.

Conclusion 

With a rich history, black corn is a nutrient-dense cereal grain that offers a wide range of health benefits. Its high anthocyanin content not only gives it a vibrant color but also enhances its nutritional value, making it a powerful addition to your diet. If black corn is readily available in your area, incorporating it into your meals can help create a more colorful, nutritious, and balanced plate. 

FAQs

• Is black corn good to eat? 

Yes, black corn is good to eat, as it is rich in minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber. It is a rich source of iron, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin A, and vitamin B. 

• What is the difference between black corn vs yellow corn? 

The primary difference between black corn vs yellow corn is the dark color of the black corn, which is due to anthocyanins. It is a flavonoid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.