Cooking Fresh Corn On The Cob On The Grill
When it comes to summer grilling, one of the most beloved staples is fresh corn on the cob. There's nothing quite like the smoky, charred flavor of corn cooked on a grill, and it's an easy and delicious addition to any backyard BBQ or summer meal. In this article, we'll take you through everything you need to know to cook the perfect fresh corn on the cob on the grill.
Choosing Your Corn
First things first: selecting the right corn. When shopping for corn on the cob, look for ears that are firm and plump, with tight, green husks. The kernels should be plump and juicy, and the silk should be moist and free of brown spots. If possible, choose corn that was picked that day or the day before for maximum freshness.
Preparing Your Corn
Once you've chosen your corn, it's time to prep it for grilling. Start by peeling away the outer husks and removing as much of the silk as possible. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk.
Next, decide whether you want to leave the husks on or remove them entirely. Leaving the husks on can help keep the corn moist and protect it from burning, but it can also make it harder to get a good char on the kernels. If you leave the husks on, be sure to remove as much silk as possible and fold the husks back up around the corn.
If you choose to remove the husks, you can wrap the corn in foil or use a grilling basket or tray to keep it from falling through the grates.
Seasoning Your Corn
Once your corn is prepped and ready to go, it's time to season it. There are countless ways to flavor fresh corn on the cob, but some classic options include:
- Butter and salt
- Garlic butter
- Cajun seasoning
- Lime and cilantro
- Parmesan cheese
To season your corn, simply brush it with melted butter or oil and sprinkle your desired seasoning over the kernels. Be sure to season both sides of the corn for maximum flavor.
Grilling Your Corn
Now for the fun part: grilling your corn on the cob. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place your seasoned corn directly on the grates. If you're using a grilling basket or tray, place that on the grill instead.
Cook the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. Be sure to keep an eye on the corn to prevent burning, especially if you left the husks on.
Serving Your Corn
When your corn is cooked to perfection, it's time to serve it up. You can skip the plates and simply hand out ears of corn, or remove the kernels from the cob and serve them in a bowl. Some additional toppings or garnishes to consider include:
- Chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives
- Hot sauce or chili flakes
- Lime or lemon wedges
- Crumbled cheese, such as feta or cotija
However you choose to serve it, fresh corn on the cob is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering.
Conclusion
Cooking fresh corn on the cob on the grill is a summer tradition that never goes out of style. By selecting the right corn, prepping it properly, seasoning it to your liking, and grilling it to perfection, you can create a mouthwatering and crowd-pleasing side dish that everyone will love. So fire up the grill, grab some corn, and get ready to savor the flavors of summer.
