Cooking Corn On The Cob Boiling Time
Corn on the cob is a staple food in many household menus - it’s versatile, delicious, and can be cooked in a variety of ways. Boiling is one of the most common ways of cooking corn on the cob, and it’s also one of the easiest. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about boiling corn on the cob - from selecting the best ears to determining the perfect boiling time. So let’s get started!
The Best Type Of Corn For Boiling
Before you start boiling corn on the cob, it’s important to choose the right type of corn. You want to select ears that are fresh and haven’t been sitting on the shelf for too long. Look for husks that are green and tightly wrapped around the ear of corn. You can also gently press on the kernels to test their firmness - they should feel plump and tender.
The best type of corn for boiling is sweet corn. The kernels are larger, plumper, and sweeter than regular corn. You can find sweet corn in yellow, white, and bi-color varieties. The bi-color variety is the most popular and has a mix of yellow and white kernels.
Preparing The Corn
Once you’ve selected the best ears of corn, it’s time to prepare them for boiling. Start by removing the husks and silk from the ears. You can do this by pulling the husks down and tearing them off at the bottom. Then use a brush or your hands to remove the silk from the kernels. Rinse the ears under cold water to remove any remaining silk or dirt.
Boiling Time
The boiling time for corn on the cob can vary depending on the size and freshness of the ears. As a general rule, you should boil ears of corn for 10-15 minutes. However, you can adjust the boiling time based on the following criteria:
- If the ears are small, boil them for 8-10 minutes.
- If the ears are medium-sized, boil them for 12-15 minutes.
- If the ears are large, boil them for 15-20 minutes.
- If the ears are very fresh, boil them for 5-7 minutes.
It’s important not to overcook the corn, as it can become mushy and lose some of its flavor. To check if the corn is done, use tongs to remove an ear from the boiling water and pierce a kernel with a fork. If the kernel is tender but still slightly firm, the corn is ready.
Serving Suggestions
Corn on the cob is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Brush the cooked corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a classic and simple side dish.
- Drizzle the corn with lime juice and sprinkle with cotija cheese for a Mexican-inspired twist.
- Coat the corn in mayonnaise and sprinkle with chili powder and queso fresco for a flavorful take on elote (Mexican street corn).
- Top the corn with garlic butter, grated parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs for a flavorful and indulgent side dish.
Conclusion
Boiling corn on the cob is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this versatile and beloved vegetable. By selecting the best ears and using the proper boiling time, you can ensure that your corn on the cob is tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. So next time you’re in the mood for this classic side dish, give boiling a try - you won’t be disappointed!