Par Boil Corn On Cob To Freeze
Summer is the season of corn on the cob, but what happens when you have too much of it? Instead of letting it go to waste, you can freeze it for later. Freezing corn on the cob is a simple process that involves par boiling the corn first. This step-by-step guide will teach you how to par boil corn on the cob for freezing.
What is Par Boiling?
Par boiling is the process of partially cooking food in boiling water. It is commonly used when prepping food for a later stage of cooking, such as grilling or roasting. The goal is to soften the food and make it easier to handle. In the case of corn on the cob, par boiling will help preserve its texture and flavor during freezing.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Start by shucking the corn on the cob. Remove the husks and silk, and rinse the ears under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
Step 2: Boil Water
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. The pot should be large enough to hold all the ears of corn you want to par boil. Add salt to the water if desired.
Step 3: Par Boil the Corn
Once the water is boiling, carefully add the ears of corn to the pot. Allow them to cook for 4-6 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size of the ears and how tender you want them to be. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can cause them to become mushy.
Step 4: Cool the Corn
Once the corn is done, remove it from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Immediately place the corn in a large bowl filled with ice water. This will stop the cooking process and prevent the corn from becoming overcooked.
Step 5: Dry and Freeze the Corn
After a few minutes in the ice water, remove the corn from the bowl and pat it dry with paper towels. At this point, you can cut the kernels off the cob if you prefer. Otherwise, place the ears of corn in airtight plastic bags or containers and label them with the date. Place them in the freezer and they will be ready to use anytime.
Conclusion
Par boiling corn on the cob before freezing is a great way to preserve the flavor and texture of this summer favorite. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your frozen corn on the cob will be just as delicious as if it was freshly cooked. So, next time you have an abundance of corn, don't let it go to waste. Freeze it and enjoy it later!
