Corn On Cob Microwave Wet Paper Towel
Summer is just around the corner, and nothing screams "summer" more than grilling corn on the cob. But what if you don't have access to a grill or don't feel like firing it up? Fear not, as you can still enjoy delicious corn on the cob by microwaving it with a wet paper towel. In this article, we'll explore the science behind this method and share some tips on how to do it right.
The Science Behind Microwaving Corn on the Cob with a Wet Paper Towel
Microwave cooking can be tricky as it tends to dry out the food, making it tough or rubbery. This is especially true for corn on the cob, which is high in water and prone to drying out in the microwave. However, by wrapping the corn in a wet paper towel, you create a mini steam room that helps keep the corn moist and tender.
The wet paper towel acts as a shield, preventing the corn from drying out while also steaming it. As the water in the paper towel heats up, it turns into steam, which helps create a moist environment for the corn to cook in. This means that the corn will cook evenly and stay juicy, just like it would on the grill.
How to Microwave Corn on the Cob with a Wet Paper Towel
Now that you know the science behind microwaving corn on the cob with a wet paper towel, let's dive into the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Start by shucking the corn, removing the husks and silk. Rinse the corn under running water to remove any remaining silk or dirt.
Step 2: Soak the Paper Towel
Wet a paper towel and wring out any excess water. You want the paper towel to be damp, but not dripping wet.
Step 3: Wrap the Corn in the Wet Paper Towel
Place the corn on the damp paper towel and wrap it tightly, making sure the entire cob is covered.
Step 4: Microwave the Corn
Place the wrapped corn on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave. The general rule of thumb is to microwave the corn for 1 minute per ear of corn. For example, if you're microwaving two ears of corn, you would microwave them for 2 minutes.
Step 5: Let the Corn Rest
After microwaving, let the corn rest for a few minutes before unwrapping it. This will allow the steam to distribute evenly throughout the cob, ensuring that it's cooked all the way through.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Serve the corn on a plate or in a bowl, and enjoy your tender, juicy, and delicious corn on the cob!
Tips for Microwaving Corn on the Cob with a Wet Paper Towel
Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect corn on the cob:
- Use a damp paper towel, but not a soaking wet one. Too much water can make the corn soggy or mushy.
- Make sure the entire cob is covered by the paper towel to create a mini steam room.
- Microwave the corn for 1 minute per ear of corn, but adjust the time based on your microwave's wattage and the size of your corn.
- Let the corn rest for a few minutes after microwaving to allow the steam to distribute evenly throughout the cob.
Conclusion
Microwaving corn on the cob with a wet paper towel is a quick, easy, and convenient way to enjoy delicious summer corn without a grill. By wrapping the corn in a wet paper towel, you create a mini steam room that helps keep the corn moist and tender. Hopefully, this article has helped you understand the science behind this method and given you some tips on how to do it right. So, go ahead and try it out for yourself!
