Sweet corn on the bbq: the ultimate guide to smoky perfection
What To Know
- Squeeze the juice of a lime over the corn and sprinkle it with chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
- A grill basket can help to keep the corn from falling through the grill grates.
Summertime is synonymous with backyard barbecues, and no barbecue is complete without juicy, grilled sweet corn. Cooking sweet corn on the barbecue is a quick and easy way to enjoy this seasonal treat. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you grill the perfect sweet corn every time.
Choosing the Right Corn
The key to great grilled corn is starting with fresh, high-quality corn. Look for ears that are plump, heavy, and have tightly packed kernels. Avoid ears with brown or black spots, as these indicate that the corn is old or damaged.
Prepping the Corn
Before grilling, you’ll need to remove the husks and silk from the corn. To do this, hold the ear vertically and use a sharp knife to cut off the base of the husk. Then, pull the husk down the length of the ear, removing the silk as you go.
Seasoning the Corn
Once the corn is prepped, it’s time to season it. There are many ways to season corn, but some of the most popular options include:
- Butter and salt: Brush melted butter over the corn and sprinkle it with salt.
- Garlic and herbs: Combine melted butter with minced garlic and chopped herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme. Brush the mixture over the corn.
- Lime and chili: Squeeze the juice of a lime over the corn and sprinkle it with chili powder or cayenne pepper.
Grilling the Corn
Preheat your barbecue to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled sweet corn can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to complement your barbecue main course. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- With grilled meats: Serve grilled corn alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- With salads: Add grilled corn to a salad for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- With dips: Serve grilled corn with dips like ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or salsa.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Corn
- Use fresh corn: Fresh corn will grill better and have a sweeter flavor than older corn.
- Don’t overcook the corn: Overcooked corn will be tough and chewy.
- Season the corn generously: Seasoning the corn before grilling will help to enhance its flavor.
- Grill the corn over indirect heat: If your barbecue has a lid, close it while grilling the corn to create indirect heat. This will help the corn cook evenly.
- Use a grill basket: A grill basket can help to keep the corn from falling through the grill grates.
Final Thoughts
Grilling sweet corn is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this summertime staple. By following these tips, you can grill the perfect corn every time. So fire up your barbecue and get grilling!
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How do I know when the corn is done grilling?
A: The corn is done grilling when the kernels are tender and slightly charred. You can also test the corn by piercing a kernel with a fork. If the kernel is soft, the corn is done.
Q: Can I grill corn without husking it?
A: Yes, you can grill corn without husking it. However, the husk will burn and char, so you will need to remove it before eating the corn.
Q: How do I store grilled corn?
A: Grilled corn can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store the corn, wrap it in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container.
