The Best Way To Freeze Corn On The Cob
Summer is here, and with it comes delicious sweet corn on the cob. Corn is a staple for many American families during the summer months, whether it's grilled or boiled, it's always a crowd-pleaser. But what happens when you have too much corn on the cob? The solution is simple - freeze it! Freezing corn is a great way to make sure you always have it on hand, whether it's off-season or you want to enjoy it in the winter months. Here's the best way to freeze corn on the cob!
Choosing the right corn
When it comes to freezing corn on the cob, choosing the right corn is key. You want to choose fresh, young corn with tight husks and bright, plump kernels. The kernels should be tender and sweet, with no signs of over-ripeness or dehydration. Look for corn that has been recently harvested and avoid any corn with brown or wilted husks. If possible, buy your corn directly from a local farmer or farmer's market to ensure that it's as fresh as possible.
Cooking the corn
The next step is to cook the corn. You can either boil it or grill it, depending on your preference. Boiling is the most common method, as it's quick and easy. To boil corn on the cob, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the corn and let it cook for 4-6 minutes, or until it's tender enough to pierce with a fork. If you prefer grilled corn, simply grill the corn over medium-high heat until it's lightly charred on all sides.
Cooling the corn
Once the corn is cooked, it's time to cool it down. This is an important step, as it helps to prevent the corn from becoming mushy or overcooked. To cool the corn, remove it from the pot or grill and let it sit at room temperature until it's cool enough to handle. You can also run cold water over the corn to speed up the cooling process. Once the corn is cool, use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob. You can also leave the cob whole if you prefer, but cutting the kernels off makes them easier to store and use later.
Freezing the corn
Now that you have your corn kernels, it's time to freeze them. The best way to freeze corn on the cob is to use a vacuum sealer or freezer bags. If using freezer bags, make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it. Label the bag with the date and contents and store it in the freezer. Frozen corn will last for up to 8 months in the freezer.
Using frozen corn
Using frozen corn is incredibly easy. You can simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and use it in any recipe that calls for corn. Frozen corn can be used in soups, stews, casseroles, salads, and more. You can also heat it up in a skillet with a little butter or oil for a quick side dish. There's no need to thaw the corn if you're using it in a recipe that will be cooked, as it will thaw during the cooking process.
Conclusion
Freezing corn on the cob is a great way to make sure you always have this delicious summer staple on hand. By choosing the right corn, cooking it properly, and freezing it correctly, you can enjoy sweet corn all year round. Whether you're using it in a recipe or as a side dish, frozen corn is a versatile and convenient ingredient to have in your freezer.