The Best Way To Store Corn On The Cob
Summer is here, and one of the most popular vegetables that people love to eat during this season is corn on the cob. The sweet, juicy kernels are a favorite for many, and there is nothing quite like the taste of a freshly cooked ear of corn. However, if you have too much corn and don't know how to store it properly, you risk losing those juicy flavors before you have a chance to enjoy them. In this article, we will explore the best way to store corn on the cob to keep it fresh and tasty for as long as possible.
How to Choose the Right Corn
The first step to storing corn on the cob is to choose the right ears. When picking your corn, look for bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the ear. The corn should feel firm to the touch, and the silk should be slightly moist to indicate freshness. The kernels at the top of the ear should look plump and full, and there should be no signs of mold or discoloration.
How to Store Corn on the Cob
Once you have picked the perfect corn on the cob, it's important to store it correctly to preserve its quality. Here are some of the best ways to store corn on the cob:
1. Refrigeration
The refrigerator is the best place to store corn on the cob if you want to keep it fresh for longer. Simply wrap each ear of corn in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing the bag. This will help keep the corn moist and fresh, and it should last for up to a week in the refrigerator.
2. Freezing
If you have too much corn on the cob and want to store it for longer than a week, freezing is a great option. To freeze corn on the cob, you will first need to blanch it to preserve its quality. Here's how to do it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the corn on the cob and cook for 4-6 minutes.
- Remove the corn and place it in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Pat the corn dry and wrap each ear in aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped corn in a freezer bag and seal it tightly.
Your frozen corn on the cob should last for up to 8 months in the freezer.
3. Canning
Canning is another great way to store corn on the cob. It requires a bit more effort, but the end result is worth it. Here's how to can corn on the cob:
- Husk the corn and remove the silk.
- Cut each ear of corn in half and pack it into sterilized jars.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt to each jar.
- Pour boiling water over the corn, leaving 1 inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
- Seal the jars and process them in a pressure canner for 55-90 minutes (depending on your altitude).
Your canned corn on the cob should last for up to a year in a cool, dark place.
Conclusion
Corn on the cob is a delicious and healthy summer vegetable that's perfect for grilling, boiling, or roasting. With these storage tips, you can make sure that your corn stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Whether you choose to refrigerate, freeze, or can your corn on the cob, these methods will help you preserve its quality and flavor. Enjoy your sweet, juicy corn all summer long!