Corn In The Husk In The Oven
If you are a fan of grilled corn on the cob, but don't have access to an outdoor grill, or simply don't feel like firing it up, you can still enjoy this summer staple by cooking corn in the husk in the oven. This method is easy, quick, and results in juicy, perfectly cooked corn that retains its natural sweetness and avoids any tough, chewy bits that can happen with boiled or overcooked corn. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to prepare and cook corn in the husk in the oven, so you can enjoy this delicious treat any time of the year.
Step 1: Choose and prepare your corn
Start by selecting fresh, plump ears of sweet corn that still have their husks intact. Look for husks that are bright green, tightly wrapped around the ears, and free of any brown or yellow spots or wormholes. Gently feel the top of each ear – it should feel full and firm, indicating that the kernels are plump and juicy. Once you have your corn, remove any loose or rough outer leaves from the husks, but leave the rest intact. You can also trim the silk at the top of the ear, but don't pull it off completely – it will help keep the steam and flavor inside the husk during cooking.
Step 2: Soak the corn
Before you put your corn in the oven, you need to make sure it gets enough moisture to steam and cook properly. To do this, soak the ears of corn in a large bowl or sink filled with cold water for at least 30 minutes, or up to two hours. This will ensure that the husks are fully saturated and won't dry out or burn in the oven. You can also add a tablespoon of sugar or salt to the water to enhance the natural sweetness and flavor of the corn.
Step 3: Preheat and roast the corn
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Take the corn out of the water and shake off any excess moisture. Place the ears directly on the middle rack of the oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, depending on the size and freshness of the ears. You can check for doneness by gently pulling back a small section of the husk – the kernels should be bright yellow, plump, and tender. If they are still white, hard, or not fully cooked, put the corn back in the oven and check every 5-10 minutes until they are done.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy
Once your corn is done, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before handling. The husks will be hot and steamy, so use oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands. To serve, simply peel back the husks and remove any remaining silk. You can slather the ears with butter, sprinkle them with salt, or dress them up with your favorite spices or herbs. Or, you can eat them plain and savor the natural sweetness and texture of the roasted kernels. Enjoy!
Conclusion
Cooking corn in the husk in the oven is a simple, tasty, and healthy way to enjoy this classic summer vegetable any time of the year. By following these easy steps, you can create perfectly cooked, juicy ears of corn that are bursting with flavor and nutrition. So the next time you're in the mood for corn on the cob, skip the grill and try this oven method – you won't be disappointed!