Best Way To Cook Sweet Corn On The Stove
Sweet corn is a favorite summer treat for many Americans. There are many ways to prepare sweet corn, but one of the most traditional and straightforward methods is cooking it on the stove. This article will provide you with the best way to cook sweet corn on the stove, plus a few tips to make it even more delicious.
Choosing The Best Corn
Before cooking sweet corn, it's essential to choose the best ears of corn to ensure the best taste. Here are some tips to help you select the best sweet corn:
- Look for ears that have tight, green husks with bright, fresh-looking silk at the end. The silk should be pliable, not dry or brown.
- Check for worms or other pests by peeling back a section of the husk slightly.
- Feel the ears for full, plump kernels by gently pressing on the husk.
Once you have selected the best ears of corn, it's time to start cooking!
Boil or Steam?
The traditional way of cooking sweet corn on the stove is boiling it in a pot of water. However, some people prefer to steam their corn instead. So which method is the best?
Both boiling and steaming can result in deliciously cooked sweet corn. Boiling corn tends to make it more tender, while steaming can preserve its crunchiness. It's up to you which method to choose, but for the sake of this article, we will focus on boiling sweet corn.
Preparing The Corn
Before boiling the corn, you need to prepare it. Follow these steps:
- Peel back the husks to remove the silk from the ears of corn.
- Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk.
- Trim off any damaged or brown parts of the husk.
Note: You can leave some of the husk on the corn if you prefer a more rustic look.
Boiling The Corn
Now it's time to boil the corn. Follow these steps:
- Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the ears of corn.
- Add salt to the water for flavor (optional).
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Add the ears of corn to the boiling water.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let the corn cook for five to seven minutes.
- Remove the corn from the water with tongs or a slotted spoon.
Once the corn is cooked, you can add butter, salt, and pepper, or any other seasonings you prefer. You can also leave the corn plain and let its natural sweetness shine through.
Tips To Make Your Sweet Corn Even More Delicious
If you want to take your sweet corn to the next level, try these tips:
- Brush the ears of corn with melted butter before boiling them for a richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the boiling water to enhance the sweetness of the corn.
- Grill the ears of corn after boiling for a smoky flavor.
- Top the corn with grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Now you know the best way to cook sweet corn on the stove! Whether you choose to boil or steam your corn, remember to select the best ears of corn, prepare them properly, and add any seasonings you like. With these tips and tricks, you can enjoy delicious sweet corn all summer long.
