Shoepeg Corn

An heirloom variety of sweet corn with kernels tightly formed on the cob that do not grow in straight rows but irregular, jagged groupings. Named for the small wooden pegs that held shoe soles in place during the 1800's, Shoepeg Corn has small and narrow shaped kernels that are white in color, providing a slighter sweeter, milky flavor than the traditional yellow sweet corn kernels. A common ingredient for vegetable dishes in the southern U.S., Shoepeg Corn has a nice texture that complements many vegetable salads, salsas, and creamed corn side dishes. It is available fresh in some areas, but is most often found as a canned corn. In addition to the Shoepeg name, this variety of corn is also known as Country Gentleman Corn.