Grilled Corn On The Cob In The Husk
The smell of freshly grilled corn on the cob is an iconic summer staple in the United States. And while there are many ways to grill corn, one of the easiest and most delicious is grilling it in the husk. This method not only imparts a smoky flavor to the corn but also keeps it moist and juicy. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of grilling corn on the cob in the husk, from choosing the right corn to serving it up on a plate.
Choosing the Right Corn
When it comes to grilling corn on the cob, you want to choose ears of corn that are fresh and as close to in-season as possible. Look for ears that are bright green, with tightly wrapped husks and plump kernels. Avoid ears that have dry, brown husks or kernels that feel shriveled or mushy.
It's also important to choose corn that is non-GMO and grown using sustainable farming practices. This ensures that you're getting the best-tasting, healthiest corn while supporting ethical agriculture.
Preparing the Corn
Before grilling, you'll need to prep the corn by removing the outermost layer of husks, but leaving the inner husks intact. Carefully peel back the husks without detaching them from the base of the ear, and remove the silk threads from the corn by hand or with a brush. Rinse the ears under cold water to remove any remaining silk or debris.
Once the corn is prepped, you can soak the ears in cold water for at least 30 minutes to prevent the husks from burning on the grill. You can also add flavor to the soaking water by adding spices or herbs like garlic, thyme, or rosemary.
Grilling the Corn
Now it's time to grill the corn. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. Place the ears of corn on the grill grates, making sure they are not touching. Close the lid and let the corn cook for 15 to 20 minutes, turning the ears occasionally. The husks will char and may even catch on fire, but this is normal and won't harm the corn.
After 15 to 20 minutes, the corn should be cooked through and tender. Use tongs to carefully remove the ears from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. The inner husks will hold in the steam and heat, so be careful when peeling them back to avoid burning yourself.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled corn on the cob in the husk is delicious on its own, but you can also dress it up with a variety of toppings and seasonings. Some popular options include:
- Butter and salt
- Cotija cheese and chili powder
- Lime juice and cilantro
- Garlic butter and parsley
Another fun way to serve grilled corn on the cob is to cut the kernels off the cob and use them in salads, salsas, or as a garnish for tacos and other dishes.
Conclusion
Grilled corn on the cob in the husk is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy one of summer's most iconic foods. By following the steps outlined in this article, you'll be able to grill up perfectly juicy, smoky ears of corn that are sure to delight your taste buds. So fire up the grill, grab some fresh corn, and get ready to savor the flavors of summer!
