How to Cook Corn on the Cob: A Complete Guide!

Corn on the cob is a delicious and healthy food that is enjoyed globally. Most people prefer to eat it during summertime when the corn is fresh and sweet. Corn on the cob is available all year worldwide, but to enjoy the best flavor, harvest time is what you want. Whether it’s cooked on a grill or boiled in a pot of water, it’s an easy-to-prepared food that everyone loves. In this article, we will teach you how to cook corn on the cob, step-by-step. So, let’s get started!

1. Buying the Right Corn

The first step to delicious corn on the cob is buying the right corn. Here are some things you should look for while buying:

A. Freshness

When buying corn, look for the freshest corn possible. The fresher the corn, the better it will taste. Check the husks – they should be bright green and tightly wrapped around the cob. If the husks turn yellow or brown, it means the corn is not fresh and may have already started to dry out.

B. Size

Select ears of corn that are medium to large size, as small ears may not be fully developed or may have underdeveloped kernels. Medium and large ears of corn, however, yield perfect kernels that will cook evenly and have sweet and crispy kernels.

C. Variety

Choose the variety of corn that you prefer to eat, such as sweet corn or white corn. The region in which the corn was grown may also influence the flavor and overall quality of the corn.

2. Preparing the Corn

Once you have the right corn, it’s important to prepare it before cooking. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

A. Shucking the Corn

Remove the husk and silk from each ear of corn by pulling them off from the top to the bottom. Remove as much silk as possible, but don’t worry if you can’t get it all off.

B. Cleaning the Corn

After removing the husks and silk, rinse the corn under cold running water to remove any remaining silk.

C. Trimming the Corn

Trim both ends of the cob to remove any excess leaves or stray threads.

3. Boiling Corn on the Cob

Boiling corn on the cob is the most common and easiest way to cook it. Follow these steps for perfect boiled corn:

A. Preparation

Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the corn. Add salt to the water and bring it to a boil over high heat.

B. Cooking the Corn

Once the water is boiling, carefully add the corn in the pot, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the pot and boil for 6-10 minutes.

C. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the corn from the pot with tongs and immediately serve with butter, salt, or any other seasonings you desire.

4. Grilling Corn on the Cob

Grilling corn on the cob is another method of cooking that gives it a smoky flavor. Follow these simple steps:

A. Preparation

Heat the grill to high heat. Peel back the corn husks, remove the silk, and rinse the corn under cold water.

B. Seasoning the Corn

Add any seasoning you desire, like butter or garlic salt, onto the kernels.

C. Cooking the Corn

Place the corn on the hot grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.

D. Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the corn from the grill, let it cool for a few minutes then serve hot.

5. Microwaving Corn on the Cob

Microwaving corn on the cob is an alternative method of cooking that is quicker than boiling. Here’s how:

A. Preparation

Remove the husk and silk from the corn. Wrap the ear in a damp paper towel, and place it on a microwave-safe plate.

B. Cooking the Corn

Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the kernels are cooked through and tender.

C. Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the corn from the microwave, let it cool a few minutes then serve hot.

FAQs

Q1. How long does it take to cook corn on the cob?

It typically takes 6-10 minutes to boil corn, 10-15 minutes to grill it, and 3-5 minutes to microwave it.

Q2. How do you know when corn on the cob is cooked?

The kernels should be tender when pricked with a sharp knife. You should also be able to see the juice burst out of the kernels when cooked. Overcooking the corn will make the kernels tough instead of tender.

Conclusion

Corn on the cob is a delicious side dish that everyone loves. While it’s easy to cook and prepare, following the steps outlined above will ensure perfectly cooked and sweet corn. Whether you choose to boil, grill, or microwave it, the results will always be delicious. Try cooking corn on the cob using different methods to see which way you like it best. Happy cooking!