Best Way To Cook Corn On Cob On Grill
Summer is here, and one of the best ways to enjoy the warm weather is to fire up the grill and cook some delicious food for family and friends. One summertime favorite is corn on the cob, and grilling it adds a smoky and savory flavor that is hard to beat. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to cook corn on the cob on the grill, so you can impress your guests with a delicious and perfectly grilled dish.
Choosing the Right Corn
The first step to grilling corn on the cob is to choose the right type of corn. Fresh corn is the best for grilling, and it should be as ripe as possible without being overripe. Look for ears of corn that have bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the corn. The corn should feel firm and the kernels should be plump and milky when you press on them. Avoid ears of corn that have yellowed husks or dried-out kernels, as they will not be as sweet or flavorful when grilled.
Preparing the Corn
Once you've chosen your corn, you need to prepare it for grilling. Start by removing the outer layers of the husk, leaving only one or two layers intact. This will help protect the corn from burning and also add flavor as the husks will char and crisp on the grill. If desired, you can also remove the silks from the corn by gently peeling them back and pulling them off.
Next, soak the corn in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This will help keep the corn moist and prevent it from drying out on the grill.
Seasoning the Corn
One of the best things about grilling corn on the cob is that you can season it however you like. Some classic options include brushing the corn with melted butter and sprinkling it with salt and pepper, or adding garlic powder, cumin, or chili powder for a more flavorful kick. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or rosemary, to add even more flavor to the corn.
Grilling the Corn
When it comes to grilling corn on the cob, there are a few different methods you can use. One popular option is to grill the corn directly on the grill grates, which will give it a nice char and smoky flavor. Another option is to wrap the corn in foil and grill it, which will steam the corn and keep it moist. Here are the steps for both methods:
Grilling Directly on the Grill Grates
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the corn directly on the grill grates, with the husks still intact. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping every 5-7 minutes, until the husks are charred and the corn is tender.
- Using tongs, carefully peel back the husks and remove any remaining silk.
- Brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper, or your desired seasonings.
- Return the corn to the grill and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the butter is melted and the corn is lightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Grilling in Foil
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Remove the outer layers of the husk from the corn, leaving only one or two layers intact.
- Brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper, or your desired seasonings.
- Wrap the corn in aluminum foil, making sure it is tightly sealed.
- Place the foil-wrapped corn on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping every 5-7 minutes, until the corn is tender.
- Remove from the grill and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Unwrap the corn and serve with additional butter and seasonings, if desired.
Conclusion
Grilling corn on the cob is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this summertime favorite. By choosing the right corn, preparing it properly, and seasoning it to your liking, you can create a perfectly grilled dish that will impress your guests. Whether you grill the corn directly on the grill grates or in foil, the result is a smoky and savory flavor that is hard to beat. So fire up the grill and give this method a try, and see why grilled corn on the cob is a summertime classic.
