How To Cook Corn On The Cob

Corn on the cob is a favorite summertime treat that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a fun snack. Grilled, boiled, or roasted, corn on the cob is easy to cook, delicious, and packed with fiber and vitamins. Whether you grow it in your garden or buy it at the market, here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook corn on the cob perfectly every time.

1. Choose Your Corn

The first step in cooking corn on the cob is to choose the right ears. Look for ears that are fresh, green, and have the husks still attached. The husks should be free of wormholes or discoloration and tightly wrapped around the kernels. When selecting sweet corn, gently press the kernels to check for firmness and plumpness. Avoid corn with shriveled or discolored kernels as it may be past its prime.

2. Shuck The Corn

Shucking corn on the cob means removing the husks and silk from the ears. To do this, grip the top of the husks with one hand and pull it downward towards the base, peeling back the layers to reveal the corn kernels. Remove the silk by brushing the ears with a stiff-bristled brush or running them under cold water. Make sure to remove all the silk as it can burn and stick to the kernels when cooking.

3. Boil Corn On The Cob

Boiling corn is a traditional and easy way to cook it. To boil corn on the cob, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add salt to the water and carefully drop in the shucked corn. Boil the corn on high for 8-10 minutes, or until the kernels are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the corn in a colander and season with butter, salt, and pepper to taste.

4. Grilled Corn On The Cob

Grilling corn on the cob is a popular method that brings out the natural sweetness of the kernels and infuses them with a smoky flavor. To grill corn on the cob, preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Brush the shucked ears with butter or olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the ears on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning them every few minutes, until they are charred and tender. Serve hot with additional butter and herbs.

5. Roast Corn On The Cob

Roasting corn on the cob is another option for those who don't have a grill or a large pot. To roast corn on the cob, preheat the oven to 375 F. Brush the shucked ears with melted butter, and sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Wrap each ear in aluminum foil, sealing the ends tightly. Place the ears on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the kernels are tender when pierced with a fork. Carefully unwrap the foil and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Cooking Corn On The Cob

- To make boiled corn even more flavorful, add a tablespoon of sugar to the cooking water to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn.

- When grilling or roasting corn, use a high-fat butter such as clarified butter or ghee as they have a higher smoke point and won't burn as quickly.

- Experiment with different seasonings such as chili powder, garlic, cumin, or lime juice to add a kick to your corn on the cob.

- If you're short on time, microwave corn on the cob by leaving the husks on and cooking on high power for 2-4 minutes.

In summary, cooking corn on the cob is a straightforward process that can be done in a variety of ways. Whether boiled, grilled, roasted, or microwaved, corn on the cob is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. With these tips and tricks, you can cook the perfect corn on the cob every time and enjoy this summer staple to its fullest.