Say goodbye to bland corn: master the art of making corn on the cob irresistible

Summertime is synonymous with the sweet, juicy goodness of corn on the cob. Whether you’re grilling, boiling, or roasting it, there’s something about this quintessential summer treat that just screams “summertime.” But if you’re not careful, your corn on the cob can end up being tough, dry, or bland.

Fear not, corn enthusiasts! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from selecting the perfect ears to cooking them to perfection. By following these tips, you’ll be able to make corn on the cob that is so delicious, you’ll want to eat it every day of the week.

Selecting the Perfect Corn

The first step to making delicious corn on the cob is selecting the perfect ears. Look for ears that are:

• Fresh: The husks should be bright green and tightly wrapped around the cob. Avoid ears with brown or yellow husks, as this indicates that they are old.
• Firm: The kernels should be plump and tightly packed. Avoid ears with loose or missing kernels.
• Evenly sized: The ears should be about the same size so that they cook evenly.

Removing the Husks and Silk

Once you’ve selected your corn, it’s time to remove the husks and silk. To do this, simply peel back the husks and remove the silk using your hands or a brush. Be careful not to remove too much of the husk, as this can make the corn dry out during cooking.

Cooking Methods

There are three main ways to cook corn on the cob: grilling, boiling, and roasting. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best suits your needs.

Grilling: Grilling corn on the cob gives it a slightly smoky flavor. To grill corn, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the husks and silk from the corn, then brush it with olive oil. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.

Boiling: Boiling corn on the cob is the most traditional method. To boil corn, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the kernels are tender.

Roasting: Roasting corn on the cob in the oven is a great way to get a crispy exterior and a tender interior. To roast corn, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the husks and silk from the corn, then brush it with olive oil. Place the corn on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the kernels are tender and slightly browned.

Seasoning

Once your corn is cooked, it’s time to season it. There are endless ways to season corn on the cob, but some of our favorites include:

• Butter and salt: This classic combination is always a winner. Simply slather your corn with butter and sprinkle with salt.
• Garlic and herb butter: Add some extra flavor to your corn by making garlic and herb butter. Simply mix together some softened butter, minced garlic, and your favorite herbs.
• Chili lime: For a spicy and tangy twist, try seasoning your corn with chili lime. Simply combine some chili powder, lime juice, and salt.
• Bacon: Add some bacon to your corn for a smoky and savory flavor. Simply cook some bacon until crispy, then crumble it over your corn.

Serving

Corn on the cob is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course. Here are a few ideas for serving corn on the cob:

• As a side dish: Corn on the cob is the perfect side dish for any summer meal. Serve it with grilled chicken, burgers, or ribs.
• As an appetizer: Cut corn off the cob and serve it in a bowl with your favorite dip.
• As a main course: Corn on the cob can be a hearty and satisfying main course. Top it with your favorite toppings and enjoy.

Storing

Corn on the cob is best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store corn on the cob, remove the husks and silk and wrap it in plastic wrap.

The Ultimate Corn on the Cob Recipe

Now that you know how to make corn on the cob delicious, here’s a recipe for the ultimate corn on the cob:

Ingredients:

• 6 ears of corn
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup minced garlic
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Remove the husks and silk from the corn.
2. In a small bowl, combine the butter, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the butter mixture evenly over the corn.
4. Grill, boil, or roast the corn until the kernels are tender.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Information You Need to Know

Q: How can I make my corn on the cob more flavorful?

A: There are several ways to make your corn on the cob more flavorful. Try adding some butter, salt, and pepper to the kernels. You can also try adding some herbs, spices, or cheese.

Q: How can I keep my corn on the cob from drying out?

A: To keep your corn on the cob from drying out, cook it in a way that keeps it moist. Grilling or roasting the corn in the oven are good options. You can also add some butter or oil to the corn before cooking it.

Q: How can I make my corn on the cob more tender?

A: To make your corn on the cob more tender, cook it for a longer period of time. You can also try soaking the corn in water for a few hours before cooking it.