Grilled Corn On The Cob With Mayonnaise
When it comes to summer barbecues, few things are more delicious than grilled corn on the cob with mayonnaise. This classic dish is a staple at backyard gatherings across the United States, and for good reason: it's simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we'll explore the history of grilled corn on the cob, the benefits of using mayonnaise as a topping, and a step-by-step recipe for creating this timeless dish.
The History of Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn has been a staple food in the Americas for thousands of years, and evidence of its cultivation can be found dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Maya and Aztec. However, it wasn't until the 1800s that American farmers began to cultivate the sweet, juicy corn varieties that we know and love today.
Grilled corn on the cob became popular in the United States in the early 1900s, as families began to gather around backyard barbecues for summertime meals. Over the years, different regions of the country have developed their own unique ways of preparing and seasoning grilled corn, but one topping that has remained a constant favorite is mayonnaise.
The Benefits of Using Mayonnaise as a Topping
Mayonnaise may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of grilled corn on the cob, but trust us – it's a game-changer. Here are just a few benefits of using mayonnaise as a topping:
- It adds a tangy, creamy flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn
- It helps other toppings (such as cheese, spices, or hot sauce) stick to the corn
- It creates a barrier that keeps the corn from drying out and becoming tough on the grill
- It's a versatile topping that can be customized to suit your taste preferences
Overall, mayonnaise is a simple yet effective way to take your grilled corn on the cob to the next level.
A Step-by-Step Recipe for Grilled Corn on the Cob with Mayonnaise
Now that we've convinced you of the benefits of using mayonnaise as a topping for grilled corn on the cob, let's get to the good stuff: the recipe itself. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 ears of fresh corn
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Here's how to prepare the corn:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the husks from the corn, leaving the stem intact. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any silk.
- Brush the corn with a thin layer of mayonnaise, making sure to cover all sides.
- In a small bowl, mix together the parmesan cheese, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the corn, using your hands to make sure it sticks to the mayonnaise.
- Grill the corn over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is charred in spots and tender all the way through.
- Serve the corn hot, with a squeeze of lime juice and any additional toppings you like (such as hot sauce, chopped herbs, or more parmesan cheese).
And there you have it – a simple yet flavorful recipe for grilled corn on the cob with mayonnaise. This dish is perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, or any time you want to enjoy the flavors of summer. Give it a try and see why this classic dish has stood the test of time!