Best Way To Put Up Corn On The Cob
When it comes to summer barbecues and backyard parties, corn on the cob is a classic staple that everyone enjoys. But, have you ever struggled with the best way to prepare and cook your corn? Look no further. This article will guide you through the best practices for putting up corn on the cob.
Choosing the Right Corn
The first step to putting up the perfect corn on the cob is choosing the right corn. When selecting your corn, look for ears that have bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the cob. The silks on the inside of the husk should be slightly moist, indicating fresh corn. Avoid ears that have brown or dry husks, as they may be old and tough. Additionally, the kernels should be plump and tightly packed, without any gaps or dents in the rows of kernels.
Preparing the Corn
Before cooking, remove the outermost layer of husk and the silk from the top of the corn. You can do this by gently peeling back the husk and silk, being careful not to remove too much of the husk. Once the silk has been removed, fold the husks back over the cob and secure them at the end with a piece of kitchen twine or a strip of aluminum foil. Soak the corn in a large bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes. This will add moisture to the husks and prevent them from burning during cooking.
Cooking the Corn
There are several ways to cook corn on the cob, including boiling, grilling, and roasting. Here are some tips for each method:
- Boiling: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 3-5 minutes, until the kernels are tender. Remove from the water and serve.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the corn on the grill, husks still attached, and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the husks are charred and the kernels are tender. Remove from the grill and allow to cool for a few minutes before removing the husks.
- Roasting: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Place the corn on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until the kernels are tender and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before removing the husks.
Serving the Corn
Now that your corn on the cob is cooked to perfection, it's time to serve it up. You can keep it simple with just a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt, or add some flavor with a variety of toppings. Here are some ideas:
- Butter and Salt: Classic and simple.
- Herbed Butter: Mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, or chives.
- Cheesy Corn: Grate some parmesan or cheddar cheese over the top of the corn while it's still warm.
- Mexican Style: Spread a mixture of mayonnaise, chili powder, and lime juice over the corn, then sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
With these tips and tricks, you can put up the perfect corn on the cob every time. Whether you're grilling in the backyard or hosting a summer party, this classic dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends.