Cooking Corn On The Cob On The Stove Top
Corn on the cob is a favorite summer treat, but not everyone has access to a grill or wants to heat up their oven during the hot season. Fear not, because cooking corn on the cob on the stove top is just as easy and delicious. Here, we'll explore different ways to cook corn on the cob on the stove top, and share some tips and tricks to ensure perfectly cooked corn every time.
Choosing and Preparing Corn
The first step to cooking corn on the cob on the stove top is choosing the right corn. Look for ears of corn that are bright green, firm, and have the husk tightly wrapped around them. Avoid corn that has brown or wilted husks, as they are likely to be overripe and not as fresh. You may also want to gently peel back a small section of the husk to check the kernels underneath, which should look plump and milky.
Once you've chosen the corn, remove the husks and silk. You can do this by cutting off the bottom of the ear of corn and pulling down the husks, or you can cut off the top and bottom and use a vegetable brush to remove the silk. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk.
Salt and Sugar Boiled Corn on the Cob
One popular way to cook corn on the cob on the stove top is to boil it in a pot of salted water. To add some sweetness to the corn, you can also add a tablespoon of sugar to the water. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the corn and let it cook for 5-7 minutes. Remove the corn from the water with tongs and let it cool for a minute before serving.
Buttered Corn on the Cob
If you're a fan of buttered corn, you can easily prepare it on the stove top. Melt some butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly browned and tender. If you prefer, you can also add some salt and pepper to the corn while it's cooking.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
For a smoky flavor, you can grill corn on the cob on the stove top. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the corn with a little bit of oil and place it in the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred and tender. You can also sprinkle some chili powder or other seasonings on the corn while it's grilling.
Microwaved Corn on the Cob
If you're short on time, you can also microwave corn on the cob. Place the corn in a microwave-safe dish and add a tablespoon of water. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the corn is tender. Let the corn cool for a minute before serving.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to ensure delicious corn on the cob every time:
- Don't overcook the corn, as it can become tough and chewy. 5-7 minutes is usually enough time to cook corn on the stove top.
- If you're using unsalted butter, add a pinch of salt to the corn to enhance its flavor.
- If you want to add some extra flavor to the corn, you can brush it with garlic butter, sprinkle it with Parmesan cheese, or drizzle it with honey.
- If you're cooking a large batch of corn, you can keep it warm in a slow cooker or warming tray until you're ready to serve.
Conclusion
Cooking corn on the cob on the stove top is easy and versatile, and there are many ways to prepare it to suit your taste. Whether you prefer boiled, buttered, grilled, or microwaved corn, you can enjoy this summer favorite any time of year. Just remember to choose fresh corn, and follow these tips and tricks for perfectly cooked corn on the cob every time.