The ancient history of corn is a fascinating tale, from its domestication to becoming the most produced crop in the world. Versatile and reliable, corn has played a vital role in feeding and supporting our growing population. Just when you thought corn couldn’t surprise you anymore, along comes Korean sweetcorn ice cream to prove otherwise.
Lotte, a renowned brand, has created a Korean sweetcorn ice cream that not only looks like corn but also tastes like it. Yes, it may sound strange at first, but trust me, it’s worth exploring. Unwrapping the vivid green packaging reveals a pale yellow ice cream sandwich shaped like a corn-on-the-cob. Encased in a wafer, it almost resembles a toy from a kid’s play kitchen. As you take a bite, the wafer gives way to a delightful chocolate shell that encloses smooth vanilla ice cream dotted with whole pieces of corn.
The taste is a delightful combination of sweet and corny, offering a unique and somewhat eccentric flavor profile. If you’re new to the world of corn ice cream, be prepared for a surprising revelation. However, if you’re already a fan, this buttery-sweet delight will undoubtedly win you over. It’s a corn ice cream experience like no other, bound to pique the curiosity of any ice cream aficionado.
A Corny Reception
The Korean corn ice cream has received mixed reactions, but if you enjoy the sweet combination of corn and ice cream, it might be right up your alley. Amongst the skeptical reviews, many individuals found their initial uncertainty turning into approval. One YouTube reviewer even exclaimed, “My mind is saying no, but my taste buds are saying yes.”
The buttery richness of the corn combined with the sweetness of the vanilla may initially surprise your taste buds, but after the first bite, you’ll find yourself craving more. That’s Rank perfectly captured this sentiment, stating, “My brain is telling me, dude, this sucks, but my tongue is like butter, yo.”
For those worried about an overload of sweetness, fear not. The vanilla and chocolate elements help balance the slightly savory notes of the corn, ensuring that the ice cream sandwich isn’t overly sweet. Still need convincing? Well, it turns out that Jung Kook from BTS considers this unique treat to be one of his favorite ice creams. Now, if that’s not a reason to give it a try, I don’t know what is!
It’s Not For Everyone
Of course, the Lotte corn ice cream won’t please everyone. As with any unique flavor, there are bound to be differing opinions. One reviewer on SeoulEats likened the wafer of the ice-cream sandwich to a “cheap ice cream cone” and described the overall taste as “soggy popcorn.” However, fear not, because the whole sweet corn pieces throughout the vanilla ice cream provide a satisfying contrast in texture, ensuring it’s not a completely soft affair.
Others expressed their opinion that the corn taste overpowered the ice cream. While this is a valid point, it’s important to remember that the ice cream is intended to be a sweet corn flavor, so a burst of corn flavor is to be expected.
Time to Embrace the Adventure!
If you’ve considered both sides and are feeling adventurous, I encourage you to head down to your nearest Asian supermarket and check the freezer section. You may find these intriguing ice cream treats waiting for you. H Mart is a great place to start your search, either in-store or through delivery. With Korean dishes like Tteokbokki storming the food scene, it’s time to embrace the unexpected and discover if this corny snack might just be the missing piece of your culinary puzzle. Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.
Read more: The Ultimate Ice Cream Brands, Ranked