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Length Of Time To Cook Corn On The Cob

Nothing tastes quite like a fresh, tender and juicy cob of corn straight from the grill or the pot. However, if you're not sure how long to cook them for, you may end up with undercooked corn that is hard and chewy, or even overcooked corn that is mushy and tasteless. In this article, we'll discuss the length of time to cook corn on the cob, and share some tips to help you get the perfect result every time.

How to choose the right corn?

Choosing The Right Corn

Before we dive into cooking, it's important to select the right corn. Corn on the cob is best when it is fresh, so try to purchase corn that is still in the husk and avoid any that have brown or slimy spots on the husk. The kernels should be firm and tightly packed together, and if you gently peel back the husk, the silk should be light brown and moist. If you're not able to cook the corn right away, store it in the refrigerator in the husk until ready to cook.

Boiling Corn on the Cob

Boiling Corn On The Cob

Boiling is one of the easiest ways to cook corn on the cob. Follow these steps:

  1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the corn.
  2. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
  3. Add the corn to the pot.
  4. Cover the pot with a lid and let the corn cook for 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove the corn from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

When boiling corn on the cob, it's crucial to avoid overcooking. Overcooked corn will become mushy and lose its sweetness. Similarly, undercooked corn will be hard and difficult to chew. The ideal cooking time depends on the size of the corn and your preference, so you may need to experiment to find the perfect timing. Generally, smaller cobs take less time to cook than larger ones.

Grilling Corn on the Cob

Grilling Corn On The Cob

Grilling corn on the cob adds a delicious smoky flavor that makes it a favorite for many people. Here's how to do it:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Peel back the corn husks, but do not remove them completely.
  3. Remove the silk from the corn.
  4. Brush the ears of corn with butter or oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper if desired.
  5. Wrap the husks back around the corn.
  6. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
  7. Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

One of the advantages of grilling corn on the cob is that it's easier to tell when it's done. The corn should be lightly charred on the outside and tender on the inside. If you find that the husks are starting to burn before the corn is done, you can wrap them in foil instead.

Microwaving Corn on the Cob

Microwaving Corn On The Cob

Microwaving is a quick and convenient way to cook corn on the cob. Here are the steps:

  1. Place the corn on a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a few tablespoons of water around the cobs.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small gap for steam to escape.
  4. Microwave the corn on high for 3-5 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave.
  5. Remove the dish from the microwave and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Microwaving corn on the cob produces steamed corn that is tender and juicy. However, some people find that it lacks the flavor of boiled or grilled corn. If you're short on time or don't want to dirty a pot, microwaving can be a good option.

Conclusion

Cooking corn on the cob is easy once you know the right length of time and the correct method for your preference. Whether you prefer boiled, grilled or microwaved corn, it's important to avoid overcooking or undercooking, which can affect the flavor and texture. Follow the steps outlined above, experiment with cooking times, and enjoy the delicious taste of fresh corn on the cob.

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