Instructions For Boiling Corn On The Cob
Corn on the cob is a summertime staple in the United States. Whether you are grilling, roasting or boiling, it is a versatile and delicious side dish that compliments any meal. Boiling corn on the cob is a quick and easy way to cook your corn and is a great option if you don't have access to a grill or oven. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to boil corn on the cob to perfection.
Ingredients
The ingredients required for boiled corn on the cob are simple and easy to find. You will need:
- 4-6 ears of fresh corn
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 4-6 cups of water
Make sure you buy fresh corn on the cob that has not been refrigerated for too long. Refrigerated corn can become dry and less flavorful. Also, avoid corn that has been pre-shucked because it can dry out and lose its sweetness.
Instructions
Follow these simple instructions to boil corn on the cob:
- Fill a large pot with 4-6 cups of water and add salt and sugar.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat on the stove.
- Add the fresh ears of corn to the pot of boiling water.
- Cover the pot with a lid and allow the corn to cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and use tongs to carefully remove the ears of corn from the pot.
- Drain the corn and serve hot with butter, salt, and pepper if desired.
It is important not to overcook your corn because it can become mushy and lose its flavor. Check the corn after 5 minutes of cooking and keep checking every minute after that until it is cooked to your desired tenderness. Some people prefer their corn to be more firm, while others prefer it to be softer.
Tips for Perfectly Boiled Corn
Here are some additional tips to help you get perfectly boiled corn on the cob every time:
- Use a pot that is large enough to fit all the ears of corn without overcrowding them.
- Don't add too much salt or sugar, it will make the corn taste overly salty or sweet.
- For added flavor, you can add herbs or spices to the boiling water such as garlic, thyme or rosemary.
- Don't cook the corn for too long, check it frequently to make sure it is cooked to your liking.
- For a healthier option, you can skip the butter and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil.
Corn on the Cob Variations
If you want to mix things up and try different variations of corn on the cob, here are some ideas:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush the corn with butter and a sprinkle of salt and grill over high heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Corn on the Cob with Spicy Butter: Mix softened butter with chili powder, garlic, and lime juice and spread on cooked corn.
- Corn on the Cob with Parmesan Cheese: Brush the cooked corn with melted butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Conclusion
Boiling corn on the cob is a simple and easy way to cook this summertime favorite. With a few tips and tricks, you can get perfectly boiled corn every time. Whether you prefer it with butter, salt, and pepper or want to try different variations, corn on the cob is a delicious and versatile side dish that everyone will love.