Baking Corn On The Cob In The Oven
Corn on the cob is a delicious and easy-to-prepare side dish that complements any meal. While boiling and grilling are the most popular methods of cooking corn on the cob, baking can be a great alternative – especially if you're short on time or prefer a more hands-off approach. Here's a comprehensive guide to baking corn on the cob in the oven, complete with tips, tricks, and tasty seasoning ideas.
Choosing The Right Corn
Before you start baking, you'll need to choose the right corn on the cob. Look for ears that are firm, plump, and free of blemishes or wormholes. The husks should be green and tightly wrapped around the kernels. If possible, buy the corn on the day you plan to bake it to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
Preparing The Corn
Once you've selected your corn, it's time to prepare it for baking. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Peel back the husks and remove any stray silk strands from the kernels. Do not remove the husks completely – they will help to trap moisture and prevent the corn from drying out. Rinse the corn under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
Seasoning The Corn
One of the great things about baking corn on the cob is that you can easily customize it with your favorite seasonings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Butter and salt
- Garlic butter
- Parmesan cheese and herbs
- Chili powder and lime juice
To apply your chosen seasoning, simply open up the husks slightly and brush the kernels with melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle the seasoning of your choice over the kernels, then rewrap the husks tightly around the corn.
Baking The Corn
Place the prepared ears of corn directly on the oven rack, spacing them out slightly to ensure even cooking. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the kernels are tender when pierced with a fork. If you prefer your corn to be slightly charred or caramelized, you can turn on the broiler for a few minutes at the end of the baking time.
Serving The Corn
Once your corn on the cob is baked to perfection, it's time to serve it up! To remove the husks, simply grab the top and bottom of the ear and gently twist and pull until the husks come off. Some stray silk strands may still be stuck to the kernels, but you can easily remove them with a clean kitchen towel or a vegetable brush. Serve your delicious baked corn on the cob with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Tips And Tricks
- For extra succulent corn, you can soak the ears in cold water for 15-30 minutes before baking. This will help to prevent the kernels from drying out and becoming tough.
- If you're short on time, you can microwave your corn on the cob instead of baking it. Simply wrap each ear in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 2-4 minutes, or until heated through.
- Don't throw away the corn husks – they can be used to wrap tamales, make corn husk dolls, or even as natural food wrappers for grilling or baking other foods.
Conclusion
Baking corn on the cob in the oven is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this quintessential summer vegetable. Whether you prefer it seasoned with butter and salt, garlic butter, or a more exotic blend of spices, the oven method is sure to produce tender, flavorful corn every time. Give it a try at your next barbecue or family dinner and see for yourself!