Make Corn On The Cob On The Grill
Grilling is a quintessential part of summer. And what better way to enjoy your time outside than by making corn on the cob on the grill? Grilled corn is a fantastic side dish that's simple to make and packed with flavor. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love. In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect corn on the cob on the grill.
Choosing Your Corn
Before you start grilling, it's essential to choose the right kind of corn. The freshest corn will give you the best results. Look for ears of corn that are tightly wrapped in green husks, with plump kernels that are in even rows. Avoid corn with brown or dry silks, as this indicates that the corn is past its prime. When selecting corn on the cob to grill, buy them unshucked and leave the husks on.
Preparing the Corn
Before you start grilling, you need to prepare the corn. Start by removing the outer layers of the husk, but leave the inner layers attached to the cob. This will create a natural barrier between the corn and the grill, which will help to prevent the corn from burning. Remove the silk by pulling it off with your hands or using a brush. Once the silk is removed, soak the corn in cold water for at least 15 minutes. This will help to prevent the husks from catching fire while grilling.
Grilling the Corn
When it comes to grilling corn on the cob, there are two main methods: direct heat and indirect heat. Direct heat involves grilling the corn directly over the flames, while indirect heat involves grilling the corn next to the flames. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, depending on the type of grill you have and your personal preferences.
If you're using direct heat, preheat your grill to high heat. Place the corn on the grill and cook it for 10 to 15 minutes, turning it occasionally, until the husks are charred and the kernels are tender. If you're using indirect heat, preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the corn on the grill, away from the flames, and cover the grill. Cook the corn for 20 to 25 minutes, turning it occasionally, until the husks are charred and the kernels are tender.
Serving Suggestions and Recipe Ideas
Once you've grilled your corn on the cob, it's time to serve it up. You can enjoy the corn as is, with a little butter and salt. Or, you can get creative and add your favorite seasonings and toppings. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
- Mexican-style Corn on the Cob: Brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with chili powder, cayenne pepper, and cotija cheese.
- Bacon-wrapped Corn on the Cob: Wrap the corn with bacon before grilling and serve with a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Garlic and Herb Corn on the Cob: Brush the corn with garlic and herb butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley and thyme.
Grilled corn on the cob is a fantastic side dish that's easy to make and always a hit. Whether you prefer it with butter and salt or loaded up with toppings, there's no wrong way to enjoy this summer staple. So fire up the grill, grab some fresh corn, and get ready to impress your guests with your grilling skills.