Hiw To Cook Corn On The Cob
There's nothing quite like biting into a juicy, sweet ear of corn on the cob during the summer months. But cooking corn on the cob perfectly can be tricky. Do you boil it? Grill it? How long does it need to cook for? Here's a comprehensive guide on how to cook corn on the cob perfectly every time.
Choosing Your Corn
The first step to cooking perfect corn on the cob is choosing the right ears. Look for ears that have bright green, tightly wrapped husks and golden-brown silk. The husks should feel slightly damp and the kernels should be plump and tightly packed. Avoid ears with dry, brown husks or kernels that are shriveled or have brown spots.
Boiling Your Corn
Boiling is the most traditional method of cooking corn on the cob. Here's how to do it:
- Start by shucking the corn and removing all of the silk.
- Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the corn and bring it to a boil.
- Add the corn and cover the pot.
- Cook the corn for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the corn from the pot with tongs and serve.
If you prefer your corn a little softer, you can cook it for up to 10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook it, as this can cause the kernels to become mushy.
Grilling Your Corn
Grilling your corn on the cob is a great way to add some smoky, charred flavor. Here's how to do it:
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.
- Peel back the husks of the corn, but leave them attached at the base.
- Remove all of the silk from the cob.
- Brush the corn with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper if desired.
- Wrap the husks back around the corn and tie them with a piece of kitchen twine or a strip of aluminum foil.
- Place the corn on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
If you want a little extra char on your corn, you can remove the husks completely and grill the cobs directly on the grates. Just be sure to keep an eye on them so they don't burn.
Microwaving Your Corn
If you're short on time or don't want to heat up your kitchen, you can also cook corn on the cob in the microwave. Here's how:
- Start by shucking the corn and removing all of the silk.
- Wrap the corn in a damp paper towel.
- Place the corn on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the plate from the microwave and let the corn cool for a few minutes before serving.
Microwaving your corn won't give you the same charred flavor as grilling, but it's a quick and easy way to cook corn on the cob.
Conclusion
Corn on the cob is a delicious and versatile summer staple, and with these tips, you'll be able to cook it perfectly every time. Whether you prefer boiling, grilling, or microwaving your corn, the key is to choose the right ears and watch the cooking time carefully. Happy cooking!