Corn On The Cob On The Pellet Smoker
Nothing beats the smoky flavor of grilled corn on the cob during the summer months. However, not everyone has access to a traditional grill, and even those who do may not have the time or patience to wait for the charcoal or gas to heat up. This is where the pellet smoker comes in handy. It is a versatile appliance that can be used to smoke or grill different meats and vegetables, including corn on the cob.
What Is A Pellet Smoker?
A pellet smoker is a type of grill that uses wood pellets as fuel. The pellets are made from compressed sawdust, which gives them their distinct wood flavor. The pellets are loaded into a hopper, which feeds them into a fire pot, where they are burned to create heat and smoke. The smoker is controlled by a digital controller, which regulates the temperature and controls the amount of smoke produced.
Preparing the Corn on the Cob
Before cooking the corn on the pellet smoker, it is essential to prepare it properly. This involves removing the husk and silk from the corn and rinsing it under cold water. Once cleaned, pat the corn dry with paper towels and brush it with a thin layer of oil. This will help the corn to cook evenly and prevent it from sticking to the grates.
Smoking the Corn on the Cob
When smoking corn on the cob, it is best to use a low and slow cooking method. This means setting the pellet smoker to a temperature between 225°F and 250°F and cooking the corn for around 30-45 minutes. The corn can be placed directly on the grates, or you can wrap them in foil if you prefer a softer texture.
While the corn is cooking, you can add some wood pellets to the hopper to create more smoke flavor. Hickory and mesquite are popular options, but you can also experiment with different wood flavors to find your favorite combination.
Serving the Corn on the Cob
Once the corn on the cob is cooked to your liking, remove it from the pellet smoker and let it cool for a few minutes. You can then serve it as is, or you can brush it with some melted butter and sprinkle it with your favorite seasonings, such as salt, pepper, or paprika. Some people also like to add a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of cotija cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Corn on the cob is a classic summer treat that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Smoking it on the pellet smoker is an easy and delicious way to infuse it with a smoky flavor that will elevate your taste buds to the next level. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and healthy side dish that will impress your family and friends. So, fire up your pellet smoker and get ready to enjoy some delicious smoked corn on the cob!