Corn on the cob is a favorite summertime vegetable that is commonly found at barbeques, cookouts, and other outdoor gatherings. While traditional methods of cooking corn on the cob involve boiling, grilling, or roasting, not everyone has access to an outdoor grill or wants to heat up their kitchen with boiling water. Fortunately, there is a quick and easy method to cook corn on the cob, and that is in the microwave.
Microwaving corn on the cob is a fast and efficient way to cook the vegetable without sacrificing any flavor. Not only does cooking corn on the cob in the microwave preserve its natural sweetness and texture, but it also takes less than five minutes to cook. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook corn on the cob in the microwave, as well as some frequently asked questions about the process.
How To Cook Corn On The Cob In The Microwave: Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Choose High-Quality Corn.
Selecting the right type of corn is an essential first step to cooking it perfectly in the microwave. Pick fresh, tender, and sweet corn that is in-season. Look for ears that are plump and feel heave in your hand, not shriveled, or slimy.
Step 2: Husk the corn.
Remove the outermost layer of the corn husk and discard it. To do this, cut off the end with a sharp knife and then peel away the husk. Discard any loose silk and rinse the corn under cold water. You can also trim away any excess leaves or silk that might have gotten stuck to the cob.
Step 3: Wrap the corn in a damp paper towel.
Take a damp paper towel and wrap it around the corn cob. The paper towel helps to trap in moisture and prevent the corn from drying out as it cooks. The dampness from the paper towel also steams the corn as it cooks, which helps to maintain its natural sweetness.
Step 4: Place the corn on a microwavable dish.
Place the wrapped corn on a microwave-safe dish, such as a microwaveable plate or bowl. The dish should be large enough to accommodate the corn, and it should be deep enough to catch any excess moisture that accumulates during the cooking process.
Step 5: Microwave the corn on high heat for 3-5 minutes.
Set the microwave to high heat and microwave the corn for 3-5 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave. If your microwave has a high power setting (over 1000 watts), then cook the corn for 3 minutes. If your microwave runs on low power (less than 700 watts), cook the corn for 5 minutes. For medium power (800-1000 watts), 4 minutes should be enough.
Step 6: Remove the corn from the microwave and let it rest.
Carefully remove the corn from the microwave and let it rest for a few minutes before removing the paper towel. The corn will be hot, so use caution when handling it. Once you have removed the paper towel, you can dress the corn with butter, salt, and any other seasonings that you like.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Corn On The Cob In The Microwave
Q: Can I microwave the corn with the husk on?
A: It is not recommended to microwave corn with the husk on. The husk can catch fire in the microwave and can also prevent the moisture from penetrating the kernels, resulting in uneven cooking. Removing the husk also allows the corn to steam and cook evenly.
Q: Do I need to add water to the dish when microwaving corn on the cob?
A: No, you do not need to add water to the dish when microwaving corn on the cob. The natural moisture and steam trapped by the damp paper towel should be enough to cook the corn.
Q: How long does it take to microwave two corn on the cob?
A: It takes the same amount of time to microwave two corns on the cob as it does to cook one. However, you may need to increase the cooking time by an additional minute or two if you’re cooking multiple ears of corn at once to ensure that they cook evenly.
Q: Can I microwave frozen corn on the cob?
A: Yes, you can microwave frozen corn on the cob. However, you may need to increase the cooking time by an additional minute or two since frozen corn on the cob takes longer to cook than fresh corn.
Q: Can I use a plastic wrap instead of a paper towel?
A: It is not recommended to use plastic wrap as a substitute for a paper towel when microwaving corn on the cob. Plastic wrap is not as breathable as a paper towel and can release harmful chemicals when heated. It would be best to stick to the paper towel method when microwaving corn on the cob.
In conclusion, cooking corn on the cob in the microwave is quick, easy, and can be done all year round. It’s a convenient way to enjoy the natural sweetness and unique taste of corn without the hassle of boiling or grilling. By following the steps outlined in this article, and keeping in mind the frequently asked questions, you’ll be able to cook perfect corn on the cob every time. Enjoy!
