Perfect Boiling Time For Corn On The Cob
There is nothing like a sweet, juicy ear of corn on the cob, especially during the summer months. However, boiling corn on the cob can be tricky. If you boil corn for too long, it can become mushy and lose its delicious crunch. If you don't boil it long enough, it can be tough and flavorless. So, what is the perfect boiling time for corn on the cob?
How to Choose the Perfect Corn
Before we dive into the perfect boiling time for corn on the cob, let's talk about how to choose the perfect corn.
Look for ears that have bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the corn. The silks should be slightly damp, but not slimy or dry. Gently squeeze the ear of corn to make sure it feels firm and plump. If there are any soft or mushy spots, choose a different ear.
How to Prepare Corn on the Cob
Once you have chosen your perfect ears of corn, it's time to prepare them for boiling.
First, remove the husks and silk from the corn. If you're having trouble removing the silks, try rubbing the ear of corn with a damp paper towel. Be sure to remove all of the silk, as it can be tough and unpleasant to eat.
Next, fill a large pot with enough water to cover the ears of corn. Add a tablespoon of salt for every quart of water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Perfect Boiling Time for Corn on the Cob
Now, the moment you've been waiting for - the perfect boiling time for corn on the cob.
For perfectly cooked corn on the cob, boil the ears for 4-6 minutes. If you have larger ears of corn, you may need to boil them for up to 8 minutes. Don't overcook the corn, as it can become mushy and lose its sweet flavor.
After the corn has boiled for the appropriate amount of time, remove it from the pot with tongs and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve with butter and salt, if desired.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don't have a pot large enough to boil ears of corn or you want to mix things up, there are alternative cooking methods.
Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush each ear of corn with melted butter and season with salt and pepper. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is slightly charred and tender.
Oven Roasting: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place each ear of corn on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and slightly browned.
Conclusion
Boiling corn on the cob is easy once you know the perfect boiling time. Remember to choose fresh ears of corn, remove the husks and silk, and boil the ears for 4-6 minutes. If you want to mix things up, try grilling or roasting your corn in the oven. No matter how you cook it, corn on the cob is the perfect summer treat.
