BLUE HOPI CORN I RARE

$3.99

Seed - A Little History

The Hopi community is located primarily in northeastern Arizona, United States. Their territory, known as the Hopi community, is located within the larger Navajo community.

The Hopi are known for their rich culture, agricultural traditions, and deep connection to the land. Their way of life and spiritual beliefs are closely tied to their environment, which includes sustainable farming practices and the cultivation of traditional corn varieties, such as Hopi Blue Corn.

Hopi blue corn has a long history, dating back centuries. The Hopi cultivate it not only for its taste and nutritional value, but also for its cultural and spiritual implications. Corn is considered a sacred food, essential to their way of life and rituals.

Features
Hopi blue corn is generally smaller than commercial varieties. It is often used to prepare traditional dishes, such as tortillas, breads or porridges. Its color is due to the presence of antioxidants, which gives it health benefits.

Also, Hopi blue corn can be eaten fresh. However, when harvested young, the corn can be steamed or boiled and eaten like sweet corn. Its taste is slightly different from yellow or white corn varieties, with a unique texture and flavor.

Conservation and revival of interest
With the modernization of agriculture and the dominance of hybrid corn varieties, Hopi Blue Corn was nearly lost to extinction. However, conservation efforts and a renewed interest in traditional farming practices have helped preserve the crop. Today, it is valued by chefs and consumers concerned about food biodiversity.

Conclusion
Hopi Blue Corn is more than just a food; it represents a cultural heritage, identity, and connection to the land for the Hopi First Nations. Its preservation is crucial not only for the Hopi, but for global agricultural diversity.

Seed - Properties

Blue Hopi corn has several interesting medicinal and nutritional properties:

  • Antioxidants: Its blue-violet color is due to the presence of anthocyanins, which have antioxidant properties, helping to fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
  • Nutrient-rich: It is a good source of vitamins (such as B vitamins), minerals (such as magnesium and zinc) and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties: Some studies suggest that anthocyanins may also have anti-inflammatory effects, which may be beneficial for overall health.
  • Digestive Health: Due to its fiber content, Blue Hopi Corn can support digestion and gut health.
  • Sustainable Energy: Like other types of corn, it provides complex carbohydrates, offering a sustainable source of energy.

Seed - How do we cook?

Here are some tasty recipes using Hopi Blue Corn, which you can prepare on the barbecue or on other types of cooking. Also the leaves and silks: The leaves (called "husks") and silks are consumed in herbal tea or added to cooking corn, it can be used to wrap food in some traditional dishes.

  •  Grilled Corn on the Cob on the Barbecue
    Ingredients :

Hopi Blue Corn Cobs (Fresh)
Butter
Salt
Spices of your choice (paprika, chili powder, etc.)
Instructions :

Preheat the barbecue to medium heat.
Remove the leaves and silks from the corn cobs.
Brush the ears with butter and sprinkle with salt and spices to taste.
Wrap each cob in aluminum foil (optional) to prevent burning.
Place the cobs on the barbecue and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
Serve warm with a little extra butter if desired.

  •  Vegetable and corn skewers
    Ingredients :

Hopi Blue Corn Kernels (Cooked or Hulled)
Vegetables of your choice (peppers, zucchini, onions)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Herbs (thyme, rosemary, etc.)
Instructions :

Preheat the barbecue.
In a bowl, mix the vegetables with the olive oil, salt, pepper and herbs.
Thread vegetables and corn kernels onto skewers, alternating between skewers.
Grill the skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning regularly, until tender and lightly charred.
Serve hot as a side dish.

  • Barbecued Corn Cakes
    Ingredients :

1 cup Hopi Blue Cornmeal
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
Spices of your choice (cumin, coriander, etc.)
Olive oil
Instructions :

In a bowl, mix the corn flour, salt and spices. Gradually add the water until you get a soft dough.
Form patties into any size you like.
Brush the patties lightly with olive oil.
Heat the barbecue to medium heat and place the patties on the grill.
Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve with salsa or sauce of your choice.

These recipes showcase the unique flavor of Hopi Blue Corn while providing a delicious cooking experience on the barbecue or other cooking methods. Enjoy!

 

Seed - How do we grow it?

  • Soil preparation
    Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the nutrients.
    Till the soil to make it light and airy.
  • Crop rotation
    Avoid planting corn in the same location every year. Crop rotation helps prevent disease and improve soil health.
  • Spacing
    Plant in well-spaced rows to allow good air circulation and light access. Spacing also allows for better pollination.
  •  Watering
    Water regularly, especially during the active growing season. Corn needs constant moisture, but avoid overwatering.
  • Fertilization
    Use a balanced fertilizer (NPK) at the beginning of growth and a fertilizer rich in potassium during ear formation.
  •  Pollination
    Corn is wind pollinated. To improve pollination, plant corn in blocks rather than single rows.
  • Harvest
    Harvest on time, when the kernels are well formed and the silks are brown. For corn to be dried, wait until the cobs are completely dry on the plant.

Our seeds are vigorous, open-pollinated and adapted to the Quebec climate.

  • Species: Zea mays I family Poaceae
  • Sowing: early May (under cover, outdoor greenhouse) or early May indoors
    Seeds: 2 seeds per pot, beginning of May and put the plants in the ground at the end of May, beginning of June
  • The pots will be ready to put in the ground at the beginning of June.
  • Sowing depth: 2 – 3 cm
  • Germination time: 5-13 days
  • Soil: Slightly acidic, humus-rich, loose, fresh and well-drained
  • Location: Requires very hot cultivation and plenty of sun
  • Spacing between plants: 10-15 cm
  • Height at maturity: 120 and 210 cm
    Maturity: 70-90 days | Productive
    Seed per envelope: +/- 35

Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of purchase.

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