Best Corn On The Cob Recipe Ever
If you're looking for a summer staple to add to your barbeque party, look no further than the classic corn on the cob. This simple yet delicious treat can be enjoyed by all ages, and with the right ingredients and preparation, can elevate your meal to a new level. In this article, we'll share with you the best corn on the cob recipe ever, complete with expert tips and techniques to achieve golden perfection every time.
Choosing the Right Corn
It all starts with choosing the right corn. Look for fresh ears of corn on the cob that have bright green husks and moist, silky tassels. Avoid any that have dried out or browned husks or kernels that are shriveled or discolored. You can also gently press on the kernels to make sure they are plump and not dented. The goal is to find corn that is as fresh as possible, ideally picked the same day.
Preparing the Corn
Once you have your fresh ears of corn, it's time to prepare them for cooking. Start by soaking the ears in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to keep the husks from burning on the grill and also prevents the corn from drying out. After soaking, remove any excess silk and pull back the husks, but don't remove them completely. You want to keep them intact to create a pocket for the butter and seasonings.
Add Flavorful Seasonings
One of the keys to making the best corn on the cob ever is to add flavorful seasonings. You can keep it simple with just butter and salt, but we recommend going a step further with a spice blend or infused butter. Some great options include garlic butter, chipotle lime seasoning, or a mix of smoked paprika and cumin. Be generous with the seasonings and make sure to spread them evenly over the kernels and under the husks.
Cooking Methods
There are several ways to cook corn on the cob, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most popular methods are grilling, boiling, and roasting. Grilling adds a smoky flavor and char to the corn, while boiling is quick and easy. Roasting in the oven or on a stovetop also creates a unique flavor profile that can't be replicated with other methods. Choose the method that best suits your taste and available equipment.
Grilling Corn on the Cob
For grilling corn on the cob, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the grill and rotate every few minutes, making sure to char all sides evenly. This should take around 10-15 minutes, depending on the heat of your grill and the size of the ears. Once done, remove the corn from the grill with tongs and serve immediately.
Boiling Corn on the Cob
Boiling corn on the cob is the easiest and quickest method. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the kernels are tender. Remove from the water and serve immediately with butter and seasonings.
Roasting Corn on the Cob
To roast corn on the cob in the oven, preheat to 425°F. Place the prepared ears on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until kernels are tender and slightly charred. If roasting on the stovetop, heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and roast for 10-15 minutes, rotating every few minutes. Remove from heat and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have your perfectly cooked corn on the cob, it's time to serve it up. You can keep it simple and serve it with just butter and salt, or get creative with toppings like crumbled feta cheese, chopped herbs, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Corn on the cob pairs well with a variety of grilled meats, vegetables, and salads, making it a versatile addition to any summer spread.
In Conclusion
And there you have it, the best corn on the cob recipe ever. By following these expert tips and techniques, you can create golden perfection every time, whether you choose to grill, boil, or roast your corn. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to find your perfect flavor combination. With this recipe in your arsenal, your summer barbeques are sure to be a hit.