Cooking Corn On The Cob In Water
When it comes to summer barbecues, one of the staple side dishes is corn on the cob. This delicious vegetable is easy to prepare and always a hit with guests. While grilling corn on the cob is a popular method, it's not always an option. For those without a grill or who prefer a different cooking method, cooking corn on the cob in water is a great alternative. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide for cooking corn on the cob in water.
Choosing The Right Corn
Before we dive into the cooking process itself, it's important to choose the right corn. When selecting corn on the cob, look for ears that are plump and heavy with tightly wrapped green husks. The tassels should be brown and slightly sticky to the touch. Avoid corn with dry, brown, or slimy tassels, as well as corn with yellow or shriveled kernels.
Preparing The Corn
Once you've chosen your corn, it's time to prepare it for cooking. Start by peeling back the husks and removing the silk. You can do this by gently pulling the silk away with your hands or using a soft-bristled brush to brush it away. Be sure to remove as much silk as possible to prevent it from getting in the way during the cooking process.
Next, rinse the corn under cold running water to remove any remaining silk or debris. Pat the corn dry with a paper towel, and then replace the husks over the corn. Soak the corn in a large bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This will help to prevent the husks from burning during the cooking process.
Cooking The Corn
Once the corn has soaked, fill a large pot with enough water to fully cover the corn. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Add the corn to the pot, making sure it's fully submerged in the water. Reduce the heat to medium-high and simmer the corn for 10-15 minutes, or until it's tender when pierced with a fork.
Remove the corn from the pot using tongs and transfer it to a plate or cutting board. Let the corn cool for a few minutes before removing the husks and silk. Serve the corn hot with butter, salt, and pepper, or your favorite seasoning.
Corn Alternatives
If you're looking for a delicious alternative to traditional corn on the cob, there are a few options to consider:
- Corn Salad: Cut the corn kernels off the cob and mix them with diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing summer salad.
- Corn Chowder: Simmer the corn kernels with diced potatoes, onions, and bacon for a hearty and creamy corn chowder.
- Corn Fritters: Mix the corn kernels with flour, eggs, and spices for a tasty corn fritter that can be fried or baked.
Conclusion
Cooking corn on the cob in water is a simple and easy way to enjoy this summer staple. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be able to prepare perfectly cooked corn on the cob every time. Whether you prefer to serve it with butter, salt, and pepper or experiment with different seasonings and preparations, corn on the cob is a delicious addition to any summer meal.