Freezing Corn On The Cob Without Blanching
Corn on the cob is a summertime staple, but it's not always easy to use up an entire ear of corn before it spoils. Luckily, freezing corn on the cob is a simple and effective way to preserve it for later use. While most methods call for blanching the corn before freezing, it is possible to freeze corn on the cob without blanching it first. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to freeze corn on the cob without blanching, so you can enjoy fresh corn all year long.
Why Freeze Corn On The Cob?
Freezing corn on the cob is a great way to preserve its fresh flavor and texture for later use. It's also an excellent way to save money by buying corn in season when it's less expensive and freezing it for use during the off-season when the price is higher. Additionally, freezing corn on the cob allows you to enjoy this summertime favorite all year long, regardless of where you live.
How To Freeze Corn On The Cob Without Blanching
Here are the steps you need to follow to freeze corn on the cob without blanching:
Step 1: Choose Fresh Corn
The first thing you need to do is choose fresh corn. Look for ears of corn that are firm and plump with bright green husks. The silk should be moist and light brown, and the kernels should be plump and tightly packed. Avoid ears of corn with brown or dry silks, soft spots, or discolored kernels.
Step 2: Husk The Corn
Remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn. You can either do this by hand, or you can use a corn stripper or a sharp knife. Make sure to remove all of the silk, as it can cause freezer burn if left on the corn.
Step 3: Prepare The Corn For Freezing
Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk. Pat it dry with a paper towel. Next, cut the ears of corn in half or leave them whole, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Pack The Corn For Freezing
Place the ears of corn into airtight freezer bags, and make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it. Alternatively, you can wrap each ear of corn tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container.
Step 5: Label And Freeze The Corn
Label the bags or containers with the date and contents, and then place them in the freezer. For best results, use frozen corn within eight to ten months.
Tips For Freezing Corn On The Cob Without Blanching
Follow these tips to ensure the best results when freezing corn on the cob without blanching:
- Choose fresh corn with bright green husks and plump kernels.
- Remove all of the silk from each ear of corn.
- Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk.
- Pat the corn dry with a paper towel.
- Cut the corn in half or leave it whole, depending on your preference.
- Use airtight freezer bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the bags or containers with the date and contents.
- Use frozen corn within eight to ten months for best results.
Conclusion
Freezing corn on the cob without blanching is a simple and effective way to preserve this summertime favorite for later use. By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy fresh corn all year long. So, the next time you find yourself with more corn than you can use, don't let it go to waste. Freeze it for later, and enjoy the taste of summer no matter what time of year it is.
