Freeze Corn On The Cob Without Cooking
There are few things better than sweet, juicy corn on the cob during the summer months. Whether you're grilling it or boiling it, fresh corn on the cob is a delicious addition to any meal. But what do you do when you have too much corn on hand and you don't want it to go to waste? Freezing corn on the cob is a fantastic option that will allow you to enjoy it all year long! In this article, we'll take you through everything you need to know about freezing corn on the cob without cooking it first.
Benefits of Freezing Corn on the Cob
Freezing corn on the cob is a fantastic way to preserve the taste and texture of fresh corn. When corn is in season, it can be incredibly inexpensive. By freezing it, you can enjoy it all year long without spending a fortune! Additionally, freezing corn on the cob is an easy way to always have a healthy side dish on hand. Corn is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
What You'll Need
Before you start freezing corn on the cob, make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. Here are the things you'll need:
- Fresh corn on the cob
- Freezer bags or containers
- A pot of boiling water
- A large bowl of ice water
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
Step-by-Step Guide to Freezing Corn on the Cob
Now that you have everything you need, it's time to start freezing corn on the cob!
Step 1: Choose Fresh Corn
When it comes to freezing corn on the cob, it's important to start with fresh corn. Look for corn that is firm, plump, and has bright green husks. Avoid corn that is soft, discolored, or has brown spots.
Step 2: Husk and Clean the Corn
Remove the husks and silks from the corn. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silks or debris.
Step 3: Blanch the Corn
Blanching helps preserve the taste and texture of the corn. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 4-6 minutes.
Step 4: Cool the Corn
Once the corn has cooked for 4-6 minutes, remove it from the boiling water and place it in a large bowl of ice water. This will help stop the cooking process and cool the corn down quickly.
Step 5: Cut the Corn
Once the corn has cooled down, use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob.
Step 6: Store the Corn
Place the kernels in freezer bags or containers. Be sure to label the bags or containers with the date and contents. Store the corn in the freezer for up to 12 months.
Tips for Freezing Corn on the Cob
Here are a few additional tips to help you freeze corn on the cob successfully:
- If you have a lot of corn to freeze, consider investing in a corn kerneler. This handy tool removes the kernels from the cob quickly and easily.
- You can also freeze whole ears of corn if you prefer. Simply blanch the ears of corn, let them cool, and then place them in freezer bags or containers.
- Make sure your freezer is set to 0 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
Conclusion
Freezing corn on the cob without cooking it is an easy and convenient way to enjoy fresh corn all year long. Follow these simple steps and you'll have delicious, sweet corn at your fingertips whenever you want it. Don't let your excess corn go to waste – freeze it and enjoy it later!