Nothing screams summertime more than a steaming hot ear of corn on the cob. It’s fresh, sweet and crunchy, making it the perfect side dish for any outdoor BBQ or picnic. However, for those who have never cooked corn on the cob before, the process might seem complicated or intimidating. But fear not! In this article, we will walk you through the steps on how to cook corn on the cob so that you can enjoy this beloved summer favorite with ease.
Step 1: Buy Fresh Corn
The first step to cooking corn on the cob is to buy fresh ears of corn. When selecting corn, look for ears with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the cob. The tassels at the top of the ear should also be brown and slightly sticky. Avoid ears with dry or yellowing husks or brown tassels as this may indicate that the corn is old or overripe.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
Once you have purchased your fresh corn, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. First, peel away the outer layers of leaves, leaving only a few layers of husk still intact. Next, remove the silk by rubbing the ear of corn with a damp paper towel or using a vegetable brush to brush it away. Finally, trim the bottom of the ear of corn to remove any excess stem.
Step 3: Cooking the Corn
There are several cooking methods for cooking corn on the cob. Here are three popular ways to cook corn on the cob:
Boiling
– Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the corn.
– Add salt and sugar to the water for flavor. Some people also add milk or butter to the water.
– Bring the water to a boil and carefully drop in the ears of corn.
– Cover the pot and cook the corn for 5-7 minutes or until the corn is tender.
– Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove the corn from the pot and let it cool slightly before serving.
Grilling
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
– Peel back the husks of the corn and remove the silk.
– Brush the corn with melted butter or olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper if desired.
– Pull the husks back over the corn and tie the tops of the husks together with kitchen twine.
– Place the corn on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender.
– Carefully remove the husks before serving.
Microwaving
– Place one or two ears of corn on a microwave-safe plate.
– Cover the corn with a damp paper towel.
– Microwave the corn on high for 3-5 minutes or until the corn is tender.
– Let the corn cool slightly before serving.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Corn on the cob is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to add extra flavor to your cooked corn. Try one of these seasoning ideas:
– Butter and salt
– Garlic butter
– Lemon butter
– Parmesan cheese
– Old Bay seasoning
– Chili powder and lime juice
– Cilantro and lime juice
FAQs
Q. How long is corn on the cob good for?
A. Cooked corn on the cob can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Q. Can I freeze corn on the cob?
A. Yes! Cooked corn on the cob can be frozen for up to 6 months. To freeze, wrap each ear of corn in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Q. Is it necessary to boil the corn before grilling it?
A. No, you can grill corn on the cob without boiling it first. However, boiling the corn for a few minutes beforehand can help to ensure that the corn is fully cooked and tender on the inside by the time it is grilled to perfection on the outside.
Q. Is it safe to eat raw corn on the cob?
A. Raw corn on the cob is safe to eat, but it may not be as enjoyable as cooked corn. Raw corn can be tough and starchy, making it difficult to chew and digest.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to cook corn on the cob, you can enjoy this summertime classic with ease. Whether you prefer to boil, grill, or microwave your corn, the end result will always be a delicious and satisfying side dish that everyone is sure to love. So next time you fire up the grill or plan a picnic, don’t forget the corn on the cob!