Grilling corn on the cob is a summertime classic that adds a smoky and delicious flavor to this beloved vegetable. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a tasty side dish, learning how to grill corn can elevate your outdoor cooking game. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to grill corn to perfection, from choosing the best corn to preparing it, grilling, and adding some creative toppings for a mouthwatering experience.
Selecting the Perfect Corn:
Before you start grilling, you’ll want to pick out the best ears of corn.The following advice will help you choose the best ones:
- Freshness: Look for fresh corn on the cob. The fresher it is, the sweeter and juicier it will be when grilled. Ideally, buy corn from your local farmers’ market or a trusted grocery store during the peak corn season, which is usually in the summer.
- Husk Quality: Examine the husks. Avoid ears with dry or brown husks, as they may indicate older or less fresh corn.
- Kernels: Feel the kernels through the husk by gently pressing your fingertips against the ear. You should be able to feel plump, evenly spaced kernels. Irregular or missing kernels may indicate that the corn is not at its best.
- Avoid Wormholes: Check for any small holes or damaged areas on the corn. These can be a sign of insect damage, so it’s best to choose ears without such blemishes.
- Once you’ve decided on your corn, it’s time to get it ready for the grill.
Take these actions:
- Peel the Husks Off: Each ear of corn should have its outer husk gently peeled out while still being attached at the base. As a result, the corn will develop a natural handle that will make turning the grill over simpler.
- Take the silks off: The silk threads (the tiny, hair-like strands) should be carefully removed from the corn. To help get rid of any tenacious silks, you can either do this by hand or using a brush. Ensure that the corn is clean and silk-free.
- Optional: Before grilling, some people like to soak their corn in water for 15 to 30 minutes.
Grilling Corn:
Follow these steps for perfect grilled corn:
- Oil or Butter: Lightly brush each ear of corn with oil or melted butter. This step adds flavor and helps prevent sticking to the grill grates.
- Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the corn for some basic seasoning. You can also get creative with spices and herbs like paprika, garlic powder, or fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or basil.
- Grill with Husks: Place the corn with the husks directly on the grill grates. If you soaked the corn, it’s okay if some water drips onto the grill; it will create steam and enhance the flavor. Close the grill lid.
- Rotate Frequently: Turn the corn every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on it to prevent the husks from catching fire. If they do start to char, move the corn to a cooler part of the grill.
- Grill Until Tender: Grill the corn for about 12-15 minutes, or until the kernels are tender and have developed some nice grill marks. The husks will also become slightly charred.
- Serve Hot: Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool for a minute or two. Then, peel back the husks (using the handle you left at the base) and use it as a natural holder. You can also tie the husks with kitchen twine for a neater presentation.
Creative Corn Toppings:
Grilled corn is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by adding some creative toppings. Here are a few ideas:
- Butter and Herbs: Spread a generous amount of herb-infused butter over the hot grilled corn. Top with fresh chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or dill.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Slather the corn with a mixture of mayonnaise, chili powder, lime juice, and cotija cheese. It’s a burst of flavor and a popular street food in Mexico.
- Garlic Parmesan: After grilling, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes over the corn.
- Buffalo Corn: Drizzle hot sauce and crumbled blue cheese over the grilled corn for a spicy kick.
- Pesto Corn: Brush the corn with homemade or store-bought pesto sauce for a burst of fresh, herbal flavor.
- Asian-Inspired: Brush the corn with soy sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an Asian twist.
In Conclusion: Grilling corn on the cob is a straightforward process that can yield a delicious and versatile side dish for your outdoor gatherings or weeknight dinners. The key to success lies in selecting fresh corn, properly prepping it, grilling it to perfection, and adding creative toppings to suit your taste. So, fire up your grill, grab some ears of corn, and get ready to savor the smoky, sweet goodness of grilled corn all summer long. Your taste buds will thank you!
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