Cooking Time For Corn On The Cob In Microwave
Are you tired of waiting for a pot of water to boil just to cook corn on the cob? Well, fret no more! The microwave is your new best friend when it comes to cooking this delicious summer staple. Not only is it quick and convenient, but it also preserves the flavor and nutrients of the corn. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to cook corn on the cob in the microwave perfectly every time.
Choose The Right Corn
The first step to any great dish is choosing the right ingredients. When it comes to corn on the cob, you need to select the freshest corn you can find. Look for ears with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the corn. The silk should be light brown and slightly sticky. The kernels should also be plump and well-filled, without any yellowing or shriveling. For the best flavor, opt for sweet corn varieties like yellow or white corn.
Prepare The Corn
Start by removing the husk and silk from the corn. Cut off the stem end if it's too long or ragged. Rinse the corn under cold running water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Place the corn on a microwave-safe dish or plate. You can cook one or several ears of corn at a time, depending on the size of your microwave and dish. For even cooking, arrange the corn in a single layer, with some space between them to allow for steam to circulate.
Add Water
To ensure that the corn cooks evenly and stays moist, you need to add some water to the plate. Pour about two tablespoons of water over each ear of corn. You can also use a spray bottle to mist the corn with water. This will help create steam, which will cook the corn from the inside out. Cover the corn with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. If using plastic wrap, make sure to leave a corner open for steam to escape.
Cooking Time
The cooking time for corn on the cob in the microwave varies depending on the wattage of your microwave and the size and quantity of the corn. As a general rule, you can cook one ear of corn on high power for about 3-4 minutes. For two ears, cook for 5-6 minutes; for three ears, cook for 7-8 minutes. If you're cooking a large batch, you may need to cook them in batches or increase the cooking time accordingly. To test if the corn is fully cooked, insert a fork or knife into the thickest part of the corn. If it goes through easily, the corn is done.
Serving Suggestions
Once the corn is cooked, carefully remove it from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel. Let it cool for a minute or two before serving, as it will be very hot. You can enjoy it plain, with just a sprinkle of salt and pepper, or jazz it up with some butter, herbs, spices, or grated cheese. Another option is to cut the kernels off the cob and use them in salads, soups, stir-fries, or casseroles.
Final Thoughts
Cooking corn on the cob in the microwave is easy, fast, and convenient. You don't need to wait for a pot of water to boil or deal with messy husks and silks. Plus, you can cook as many or as few ears of corn as you want. Just remember to choose fresh and sweet corn, add water, cover, and cook for the appropriate time. With these tips, you'll be able to enjoy delicious corn on the cob all year round, without breaking a sweat. Happy cooking!
