One of the most interesting and delicious ways to cook corn is by grilling it. Grilled corn has a unique smoky flavor and a slightly charred texture that enhances the sweetness of the corn. Here's a step-by-step guide to grilling corn:
Ingredients and Supplies:
- Fresh corn on the cob (with husks intact)
- Butter or olive oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper (optional)
- Other seasonings or herbs of your choice (optional)
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the corn: Start by removing any loose or excess outer husks from the corn, leaving a few inner layers to protect the kernels while grilling. You can also pull back the husks slightly and remove the silk threads from the corn.
Soak the corn (optional): For added moisture and to prevent the husks from burning, you can soak the corn in cold water for about 15-30 minutes before grilling.
Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350-400°F (175-200°C).
Season the corn (optional): You can add some flavor by brushing the corn with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkling salt, pepper, or your favorite seasonings over the kernels.
Grill the corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Cook the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning the ears occasionally to ensure even cooking and charring.
Check for doneness: The corn is done when the kernels are tender and have some charred spots on them. Be careful not to overcook, as it can make the corn mushy.
Serve and enjoy: Once the corn is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill. You can serve it as is, with or without the husks, or you can peel back the husks to use them as handles for easy eating.
Optional variation - Foil-wrapped corn: If you prefer a more tender and steamed-like corn, you can wrap each ear of corn in aluminum foil before placing them on the grill. This method helps retain moisture and steam the corn, giving it a different texture from directly grilling with the husks.
Once the grilled corn is ready, you can serve it as a tasty side dish with a sprinkle of lime juice, grated cheese, or additional seasonings for an extra burst of flavor. Grilled corn is a popular and delightful summer treat that can be enjoyed at barbecues, picnics, or as part of any outdoor meal.