Best Way To Clean Corn On The Cob

Corn on the cob is a summertime staple in the United States. Whether it's grilled, boiled, or roasted, everyone enjoys fresh sweet corn. But cleaning the corn on the cob might seem like a daunting task for some. However, cleaning corn on the cob is a straightforward process that doesn't take too much time. In this article, we will cover the best way to clean corn on the cob, so you can enjoy it without any hassle.

Why Clean Corn On The Cob?

Corn on the cob is grown in the fields, and it's exposed to dirt, dust, and pesticides. That's why cleaning it before you eat it is crucial. Corn also has silky threads that need to be removed before cooking, and the husks that protect the corn can also be contaminated by bacteria. Washing corn on the cob helps to remove any dirt, dust, and bacteria that might be present before cooking and eating.

How To Choose Fresh Corn

Before cleaning the corn on the cob, it's essential to choose the freshest corn. Fresh corn has plump and firm kernels, and the husks are bright green and tightly wrapped around the corn. Avoid corn with brown or dry husks, or yellow or mushy kernels. If you can, smell the corn. Fresh corn has a sweet and earthy smell. Choose corn that's in season and grown locally for the best flavor and quality.

How To Clean Corn On The Cob

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean corn on the cob:

Related Corn

Remove the husks: Hold the corn on one end and gently pull the husks down towards the stem. Strip off the tassels or silk from the ear of corn.
Rinse the corn: Rinse the corn under cold running water to remove any remaining silk threads or dirt.
Inspect the kernels: Check the corn kernels for any brown or discolored spots, and cut them off with a knife.
Soak the corn: Soak the corn in cold water for at least 15 minutes to remove any dirt or debris that might be stuck on the corn.
Rinse the corn again: Rinse the corn under cold running water to remove any remaining dirt.
Dry the corn: Pat the corn dry with a clean towel or paper towel before cooking or grilling.

Alternative Ways To Clean Corn On The Cob

Here are some alternative ways to clean corn on the cob:

Use a corn brush: A corn brush is a simple tool that helps to remove the silk threads from the corn. Hold the corn on the stem and brush the silk threads off with the corn brush.
Microwave the corn: You can microwave the corn with the husks on for 3-4 minutes to steam it. Once the corn is done, the husks and silk threads will easily come off with a gentle pull.
Grill the corn: Grilling the corn with the husks on helps to retain the moisture and flavor. Soak the corn in cold water for 15 minutes, and then grill it on medium heat for 15-20 minutes. Once it's done, remove the husks and silk threads.

Conclusion

Cleaning corn on the cob is an essential step before cooking and eating it. It's a simple process that requires a few minutes of your time, but it ensures that your corn is safe to eat and free from any dirt or debris. Follow the steps we've outlined in this article, and you'll have a delicious and safe corn on the cob to enjoy.