Learn how to cook corn on the cob in 6 different ways! Microwaving, boiling, steaming, pressure cooking, oven roasting, and grilling are different methods to transform kernels into sweet and tender bites.
Fresh sweet corn is a staple vegetable enjoyed all year long, but it peaks during the warm summer months. It’s no wonder they always make an appearance during cookouts and barbecues. It’s also not surprising that it’s a favorite handheld side dish. You get the benefits of a vegetable with the taste of a dessert!
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Corn on the cob can be prepared in the microwave, on the stove, in the Instant Pot, roasted in the oven, and on the grill. The biggest question is when do you peel the husk and silk, before or after cooking? You’ll soon find out!
How to cook corn on the cob
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Cooking corn transforms the raw starches and pectin in the plants’ cell walls into juicy, sweet, and crispy bites. According to Cook’s Illustrated, the ideal internal temperature doneness range is 150 to 170ºF (66 to 77ºC). This can be achieved using various cooking techniques.
The method you choose is based on what’s most convenient, how many people are being served, and what taste profile is desired. Grilling and oven roasting is the most practical methods for feeding a crowd and adding flavor. Microwaving, steaming, boiling, and pressure cooking provide similar textures, giving plump and juicy kernels. No matter how you like it, I’ve got a technique for you to master.
Microwaved Corn on the Cob
- Place unshucked cob in the microwave.
- Cook for 4 minutes, and add more time if needed until kernels are tender.
- Cool corn for 5 minutes before removing the husk and silk.
Boiled Corn on the Cob
- Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the corn.
- Bring to a boil.
- Shuck the corn.
- Add the corn to the boiling water, cover it, and reduce the heat to medium.
- Cook corn until the kernels are tender, 6 to 8 minutes.
Steamed Corn on the Cob
- Add water to a pot, so it does not rise above the steamer basket.
- Place the steaming basket and then the corn into the pot.
- Cover the pot and heat on high until the hot water starts to steam.
- Cook the corn until the kernels are tender, about 4 to 6 minutes.
Instant Pot Corn on the Cob
- Shuck the corn.
- Pour the water into the pressure cooker and place a trivet on top.
- Place the corn in the pot, stacking two on top.
- Cook at high pressure for 2 minutes.
- Quick-release the pressure.
- Carefully remove the lid and serve immediately.
Oven Roasted Corn on the Cob
- Preheat oven to 375ºF (191ºC).
- Shuck the corn.
- Place each ear of corn on a piece of aluminum foil.
- Place butter in the center, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Tightly wrap and roast directly on the oven rack, butter side up.
- Cook until kernels are tender, about 30 minutes.
- Allow corn to cool for at least 5 minutes before opening.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Preheat the grill over high heat (400 to 450ºF / 204 to 232ºC).
- Shuck the corn, or remove the silk and leave one layer of husk.
- Brush olive oil corn with olive oil, and then sprinkle with salt.
- Grill and cover. Cook for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping the corn every 2 to 3 minutes to char each side.
Buying corn
Fresh corn tastes the sweetest right after harvesting, so buy locally or from a farmer’s market if possible. Look for corn with a tight outer green husk that is not dried out and plenty of silk. Take a little peek at the tip of the ear for the firm and plump kernels.
The silk should also have moisture locked in. If you see any tiny holes in the husk, avoid them, those are from worms! But don’t peel back all of the husks. As the corn dries out, the natural sugars start to convert to starch and don’t taste as good.
How do you store corn on the cob?
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Store corn in the refrigerator in its husk. Make sure to wrap it tightly in a plastic bag, as dry air is the enemy. If the kernels dry out, they will taste starchy. Taking it a step further, you can wrap the cobs in damp paper towels and then place them inside a plastic bag to keep them moist. Eat corn on the cob within 3 days.
How do you prepare corn on the cob?
Depending on how you cook the corn, simply peel back the husk and remove the silk. Wash and then dry if you are oven-roasting or grilling. The corn husk can be left on for methods like microwaving and on the barbecue. Some people like to peel back the husk and remove the silk, while others leave it intact. Cooks choice.
Health benefits of corn
Corn or Zea mays kernels are low fat, fibrous, and a starchy complex carbohydrate. Eating straight from the cob provides a source of sustained energy and nutritional benefits. One serving is notable in potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C levels.
Yellow pigmentation provides antioxidants called lutein, which is good for eye health, and zeaxanthin for skin health. It has a higher amount of insoluble to soluble fiber, providing digestive benefits. If available, try to purchase organic corn for the most nourishing crop.
Corn recipes to try
- Grill corn to make elotes
- Make a Mexican street corn salad
- Add some to a vegetable salad
- Toss into the batter for cornbread
- Stir some into cauliflower corn chowder
Source: https://gardencourte.com
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