Unveiling the sweet secret: is corn on the cob in season right now?
What To Know
- If you have access to a garden or farm, harvesting corn on the cob is a rewarding experience.
- As summer draws to a close, savor the last few weeks of corn on the cob season.
- Wrap the corn in foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Summertime is synonymous with backyard barbecues, picnics in the park, and the irresistible aroma of grilled corn on the cob. But if you’re wondering “is corn on the cob in season,” the answer is a resounding yes! This quintessential summer treat is at its peak from July to September, offering the perfect opportunity to savor its sweet, juicy kernels.
When is Corn on the Cob in Season in Different Regions?
The exact timing of corn season varies slightly depending on your location:
- Northeast: Mid-July to early September
- Midwest: Late July to mid-September
- South: Mid-June to early August
- West Coast: Late June to early September
How to Tell if Corn on the Cob is Fresh
When selecting corn on the cob, look for the following signs of freshness:
- Bright green husks: Dry, brown husks indicate that the corn is old.
- Tightly packed kernels: Loose or missing kernels suggest that the corn is past its prime.
- Silky tassels: Fresh corn will have bright, silky tassels at the top of the cob.
- Weight: A heavy cob means that the corn is full of juicy kernels.
Harvesting Corn on the Cob
If you have access to a garden or farm, harvesting corn on the cob is a rewarding experience. Here are the steps:
1. Check the silks: When the silks turn brown and dry, the corn is ready to harvest.
2. Twist and pull: Grasp the cornstalk near the cob and twist it gently to break it off.
3. Remove the husks: Peel back the husks and remove any silk strands.
Storing Corn on the Cob
To preserve the freshness of corn on the cob:
- Refrigerate: Store unhusked corn in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Remove the kernels from the cob and freeze them in airtight containers for up to 6 months.
Cooking Corn on the Cob
There are countless ways to cook corn on the cob, including:
- Boiling: Submerge the corn in boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Grilling: Wrap the corn in foil and grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Roasting: Place the corn directly on the grill grates and roast for 15-20 minutes, rotating occasionally.
- Microwaving: Wrap the corn in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes.
Seasoning Corn on the Cob
Enhance the natural sweetness of corn on the cob with these seasonings:
- Butter and salt: A classic combination that never disappoints.
- Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the corn for a savory twist.
- Garlic butter: Mix melted butter with minced garlic for a flavorful coating.
- Lemon zest: Add a touch of citrus brightness with freshly grated lemon zest.
Corn on the Cob Nutrition Facts
Corn on the cob is a nutritious addition to your summer diet:
- Calories: 125 per cob
- Carbohydrates: 29 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Vitamin C: 10% of the daily value
- Potassium: 20% of the daily value
Last Call for Corn on the Cob
As summer draws to a close, savor the last few weeks of corn on the cob season. Whether you’re grilling it, roasting it, or boiling it, this iconic summer treat is sure to bring joy to your taste buds.
What People Want to Know
Q: How do you reheat corn on the cob?
A: Wrap the corn in foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Q: Can you eat corn on the cob raw?
A: Yes, but it is not as sweet or tender as cooked corn.
Q: How long does it take to boil corn on the cob?
A: 5-7 minutes in boiling water.
Q: What is the best way to grill corn on the cob?
A: Wrap the corn in foil and grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, rotating occasionally.
Q: Can you freeze corn on the cob with the husks on?
A: No, it is best to remove the husks and freeze the kernels separately.
