Are you looking to add something special to your next BBQ? Consider serving corn on the cob! This summertime favorite is easy to prepare and has an irresistible, smoky taste.
Grilling corn on the cob can be done in two ways: soaked in water or directly over heat. Choose which method works best for you!
Preparation
Grilled corn has a delicious, smokey flavor and tender, slightly charred kernels – and it’s so simple to make at home – no brining, boiling, or shucking required!
Before grilling, select ears of peak-season corn with tightly green husks and golden brown tassels (the hairy bit at the top).
Remove the silk and several outer layers of the husk, then fold the remaining husks over the corn. Doing this helps prevent your cob from drying out on the grill and allows it to char more efficiently.
Soak the corn in water for 15-20 minutes, then place it on the grill (if using either gas or charcoal grill) over hot grate heat of about 450degF to 500degF, turning each cob every few minutes until all sides are charred and ready to serve!
For a more elegant touch, brush both sides of the corn with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Or add extra butter and other seasonings of your choice, such as lemon-infused compound butter.
If you don’t have access to a grill, achieving the same effect with a cast iron pan will do. First, husk the corn before brushing it with oil or butter, then grill until tender.
Cooking time will depend on how well you like your corn, but it should only take a few minutes to achieve a soft and lightly charred texture. Be sure to flip the cobs over every few minutes, ensuring even cooking and preventing overcooking.
It’s also worth remembering that corn can lose moisture on the grill, so be sure to remove it when the kernels are tender but still juicy. Overcooked corn will become shriveled and dry; to get the best flavor from your corn, don’t overcook it!
Heat
You can reheat corn on the cob in various ways, such as in the microwave, stovetop, or grill. Before experimenting with these recipes, be aware of how much heat is required for each method.
To start, grasp firmly onto the feathered end of the cob and pull down toward its stem end, pulling both husks and silk apart until they are entirely separated.
Once all husks and silks have been removed, rinse the corn thoroughly with cool water. You may squeeze some lemon juice into the water for an added zesty kick!
Next, you can boil the corn in salted boiling water for around 5-7 minutes to obtain tender, juicy kernels that can be enjoyed right off the cob.
This is one of our go-to ways to reheat corn without heating up the kitchen or needing special equipment – just what you already have! Remember to top it off with some butter and seasoning before enjoying it!While this method requires more preparation time, the results are worth it for their delicious taste.
Reheating corn in the oven is as easy as wrapping it in aluminum foil and placing it on a baking dish. The thickness of the foil helps retain moisture, ensuring that each ear cooks evenly.
After wrapping the corn in foil, broil it for approximately 5 minutes to warm through and check if they have warmed through. Finally, mix them with spice or garlic butter and serve immediately.
For those without access to an oven or grill, the microwave can be an excellent alternative for reheating leftover corn on the cob. Place it on a microwave-safe plate with a damp paper towel covering it, set the timer for 15 seconds increments, and rotate each time; this will guarantee all sides are cooked perfectly while significantly reducing cooking time.
Cooking Time
Grilling corn on the cob is an excellent way to enhance its flavor and texture. Plus, it’s a quick way to transform it from being a side dish into something genuinely nutritious!
When cooking corn on the cob, timing is critical. This will determine how well it’s cooked and how juicy each kernel is.
Grilling corn on the cob is best done over direct heat to get it charred and blackened. Doing this prevents your kernels from drying out or becoming shriveled.
To achieve the ideal charring on your corn, brush it with butter or oil before grilling it. This helps the kernel caramelize and char without sticking to the grill grates, extracting that rich, buttery flavor.
Another way to achieve an attractive char on your corn is to wrap it in foil before cooking. This helps keep the husks intact while making handling hot corn much easier.
If you don’t have access to a grill, you can still achieve great char on your corn by heating a cast iron pan or skillet and placing the corn inside. Be sure to turn the corn frequently, so all sides get an even sear and don’t burn or stick.
Once the corn has finished grilling, remove its husk and silk and slather on some flavored butter or plain butter for an extra smoky flavor. You can also season the corn before serving by mixing salt and pepper.
You have three basic options when making corn on the cob: fresh corn still wrapped in its husk, de-husked corn, or frozen corn. Each has its advantages and drawbacks, but ultimately the result will be delicious!
Checking
Grilling corn on the cob can be done in many ways, but it’s essential to cook it sparingly. Cooking corn too long can result in tough and chewy kernels; thus, Jones recommends checking its ears every few minutes until they’re cooked according to your preferences.
When cooking corn, the amount of time depends on several factors, including its freshness and sweetness. According to experts, if your corn is exceptionally fresh and sweet, she recommends not cooking it for more than 20 minutes.
Steaming, microwaving, or grilling your corn may help expedite the process; however, check its doneness regularly to save good produce. Place cooled corn into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top. Seal these bags and label them with the date and contents.
Roasting corn on the grill is an excellent option for those who enjoy a smoky flavor. Not only does this keep the cobs from burning, but it also results in tender, grilled kernels that are extra juicy and sweet.
This technique is ideal for those with limited time but still want to enjoy fresh, grilled corn. First, shuck the cobs and remove their husks; then, wrap each ear of corn in foil before grilling it.
After 15 minutes, remove from heat and serve your roasted corn with butter for a creamy, delicious finishing touch.
Try spreading blue cheese butter on your grilled corn for a quick and delicious side dish. It’s the ideal way to bring out the sweetness of summertime corn.