Best Way To Freeze Corn On Cob
Summer is the time for corn on the cob. It's one of those childhood memories that always comes to mind when we think of summer. The grilling or the boiling of the corn and the butter melting down the sides. However, the corn season is limited, and buying and freezing ears of corn can be an excellent way to enjoy corn all year round. Frozen corn is perfect for soups, chili, salsa, and casseroles. In this article, we will discuss the best way to freeze corn on the cob.
Choose The Right Ears Of Corn
The first step in freezing corn on the cob is to choose the right ears of corn. Choose fresh, ripe, and blemish-free ears of corn. The corn should be picked at its peak, which is when the kernels are plump, bright, and milky. Avoid selecting corn that has brown or yellow kernels or a brown or yellow husk.
Prepare The Corn For Freezing
Preparing the corn for freezing involves shucking the ears of corn and removing the silk. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk. After rinsing, inspect the ears of corn for any remaining silk. You can use a toothbrush to remove any stubborn silk. Once the ears are clean, pat them dry with a paper towel.
Blanch The Corn
Blanching is the process of boiling vegetables briefly in water and then quickly cooling them in ice water. Blanching helps to stop the enzyme activity that would otherwise cause the corn to break down and lose its flavor, texture, and color. To blanch corn on the cob, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once the water boils, carefully add the ears of corn to the pot. Allow the corn to boil for 4-6 minutes, depending on the size of the ears of corn. After boiling, quickly transfer the corn to a large bowl of ice water. Let the corn cool for 10 minutes before draining.
Cut The Corn Off The Cob
After blanching and cooling the corn, it's time to cut the kernels off the cob. You can use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob or a corn stripper. Place a large mixing bowl on a damp towel to prevent it from sliding around. Hold the ear of corn upright in the bowl and, using a sharp knife, cut the kernels off the cob. Once you've cut all the kernels, use the back of the knife to scrape the cob to get all the remaining bits of corn.
Package The Corn For Freezing
It's essential to package the corn correctly to ensure it stays fresh and doesn't develop freezer burn. You can use freezer bags or airtight containers. If using freezer bags, make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. It's best to put the bags or containers in a single layer in the freezer initially, so they freeze more quickly. Once frozen, you can stack them neatly, but make sure to label them with the date and contents.
Conclusion
Freezing corn on the cob is an excellent way to enjoy fresh, delicious corn all year round. The process is easy, and with a little effort, you can have freshly frozen corn ready for your next meal. By following the above steps, you can keep the corn fresh and tasty for up to six months. So why not stock up on fresh corn this summer and freeze it for later use?
