Best Time To Buy Corn On The Cob
If you are a fan of sweet corn on the cob, then you know that not all corn is created equal. While corn can be found year-round in grocery stores, the best time to buy sweet corn on the cob is during its peak season. In the United States, sweet corn is typically in season from June to October, with August being the best time to buy. Here's everything you need to know about buying sweet corn on the cob during its peak season.
Why is August the Best Time to Buy Sweet Corn?
August is the best time to buy sweet corn on the cob because this is when it's at its freshest and most flavorful. During this time, farmers markets and grocery stores are stocked with locally grown sweet corn, which means it's been picked at just the right time and hasn't been sitting in storage for weeks.
Not only is sweet corn at its peak in August, but it's also at its most affordable. Prices for sweet corn typically drop during peak season, making it a great time to stock up and enjoy this tasty summer treat.
How to Choose the Best Sweet Corn on the Cob
When shopping for sweet corn on the cob, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you're getting the best quality corn:
- Look for ears that have bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the ear of corn. The husks should be free of mold or worm damage.
- The tassels (the part of the corn you pull off before cooking) should be brown and slightly sticky to the touch.
- Gently press on the kernels to see if they are plump and firm.
- Peel back a portion of the husk to ensure that the kernels are creamy and not too mature or starchy.
How to Store Sweet Corn on the Cob
The key to keeping sweet corn fresh is to keep it cool and moist. If you're not going to cook your sweet corn within a day or two of buying it, you can store it in the refrigerator. Simply wrap the ears of corn in damp paper towels and place them in a plastic bag. This will help to maintain their moisture and freshness for up to a week.
How to Cook Sweet Corn on the Cob
Cooking sweet corn on the cob is a summer favorite, and there are many ways to prepare it. Here's a simple method for cooking sweet corn on the cob:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add the sweet corn to the pot and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the kernels are tender.
- Use tongs to remove the sweet corn from the pot and let it cool for a minute or two.
- Peel back the husks and remove the silks.
- Enjoy your sweet corn on the cob with butter, salt, and pepper!
Conclusion
Now that you know the best time to buy sweet corn on the cob, how to choose the best quality corn, how to store it, and how to cook it, you'll be able to enjoy this summer staple to its fullest. So head to your local farmers market or grocery store in August and stock up on this delicious and affordable summer treat!