Best Way To Roast Corn On The Cob
Roasting corn on the cob is a classic summertime tradition that many people look forward to all year. Whether you're at a backyard BBQ, a fair or a picnic, there's nothing quite like biting into a juicy, flavorful ear of roasted corn. But roasting corn on the cob can be tricky if you don't know what you're doing. In this article, we'll go over the best way to roast corn on the cob to ensure that you get the perfect ear every time.
Choose Fresh Corn
The first step to roasting perfect corn on the cob is choosing the right ears of corn. You want to look for fresh, plump ears of corn that have bright green husks and golden brown silks. The kernels should be tightly packed together and feel firm when you press on them. Avoid any ears of corn that have brown or yellow spots or a dry, withered appearance. These are signs that the corn is past its prime and won't be as sweet or flavorful when roasted.
Soak the Corn
Before you roast the corn, it's important to soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Soaking the corn helps to prevent the husks from burning and also helps to steam the kernels, which makes them more tender and juicy. Fill a large bucket or pot with enough water to cover the corn completely and let it soak for 30 minutes. If you're short on time, you can soak the corn in the sink or a large bowl, just make sure that it's fully submerged in water.
Choose Your Method
There are several ways to roast corn on the cob, each with its own pros and cons. The most popular methods are grilling, oven roasting and boiling. Grilling is great for imparting a smoky flavor to the corn, while oven roasting is perfect for when you don't have access to a grill. Boiling is the quickest and easiest method, but it can sometimes result in overcooked or soggy corn. Choose the method that works best for you based on your equipment and personal preferences.
Prepare the Corn
Once you've chosen your roasting method, it's time to prepare the corn for cooking. Start by peeling back the outer layers of the husk, but don't remove them entirely. Leave a few layers of husk intact to protect the corn from heat and steam. Remove the silks by pulling them downwards towards the stalk of the corn. If you're grilling or oven roasting the corn, you can also remove the remaining husk layers to expose the kernels. If you're boiling the corn, leave all the husk layers intact.
Roasting the Corn
Now it's time to roast the corn! If you're grilling the corn, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the corn directly on the grates. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning it occasionally, until it's lightly charred and tender. If you're oven roasting the corn, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and place the corn on a baking sheet. Roast the corn for 25-30 minutes, turning it once or twice, until it's golden brown and tender. If you're boiling the corn, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the corn. Boil the corn for 5-7 minutes, until it's bright yellow and tender.
Add Seasonings
Once the corn is roasted, it's time to add some flavor! Most people prefer to simply slather their corn with butter and salt, but there are plenty of other seasoning options to explore. Some popular seasonings for roasted corn on the cob include chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, parmesan cheese, and lime juice. Experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect combination.
Conclusion
Roasting corn on the cob is a great way to enjoy one of summer's most beloved treats. By following these tips, you'll be able to roast the perfect ear of corn every time. Just remember to choose fresh corn, soak it before roasting, choose your roasting method, prepare the corn properly, roast it to perfection, and add your favorite seasonings. With a little practice, you'll be a corn roasting pro in no time!