Grilling corn is a simple and delicious way to enjoy the summer season. Corn on the cob is a great addition to any cookout, and it can be customized to suit any palate. Whether you like your corn grilled to perfection or charred on the outside, there are a few tips and tricks you should keep in mind to ensure that your corn comes out juicy and flavorful every time.
Here’s how to grill corn:
1. Choose the right corn. The best corn for grilling is fresh, in-season corn that has been picked within the last day or two. When selecting your corn, look for ears that have bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the kernels. The kernels should be plump and moist, with no shriveling or browning.
2. Preheat your grill. Preheating your grill is key to achieving the perfect grill marks on your corn. Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 450-500 degrees F) and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
3. Soak your corn. Soaking your corn in water can help prevent it from drying out while grilling. Fill a large bowl with cold water and add a tablespoon of salt. Remove the outer layers of husks and silk from your corn, then soak the ears in the bowl of salt water for 10-15 minutes.
4. Prepare your corn. Once your grill is heated and your corn is soaked, it’s time to prepare the ears for grilling. Pull back the husks on each ear of corn, but don’t remove them completely. Remove as much silk as you can, then fold the husks back over the kernels to create a covering.
5. Grill your corn. Place your corn on the grill grates and cook for 10-15 minutes, rotating the ears occasionally to ensure even cooking. The husks will char and smoke slightly, but this is normal. When the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
6. Serve your corn. Once your corn has cooled, peel back the husks and serve with your favorite toppings. Some popular corn topping options include butter, salt, pepper, and herbs, or you can get creative and try toppings like crumbled cheese, spicy mayo, or grilled onions.
FAQs:
Q: What’s the best way to remove silk from corn before grilling?
A: The easiest way to remove silk from corn is to use a clean, dry kitchen towel. Hold the top of the ear of corn with one hand and use the towel to rub the silk off the kernels with the other hand. If there are any stubborn strands of silk, a vegetable brush can be used to gently scrub them away.
Q: What’s the best way to season grilled corn?
A: Grilled corn can be seasoned in many different ways, depending on your personal taste. Basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and butter are always a good choice, but you can also add a variety of herbs and spices for a more flavorful twist. Some of the most popular corn seasonings include cumin, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or parsley. You can also try topping your grilled corn with crumbled cheese, hot sauce, or chopped roasted nuts.
Q: How do I know when corn is done grilling?
A: Grilled corn should be cooked until the kernels are tender and juicy. The exact cooking time will depend on the heat of your grill and the size of your ears of corn, but most corn will be done in 10-15 minutes. You can test the corn for doneness by piercing a kernel with a fork or knife. If it’s tender and juicy, it’s ready to eat.
In conclusion, grilling corn couldn’t be easier. With the right preparation and some simple seasoning, you can enjoy juicy, smoky corn on the cob at any summer cookout. And with endless possibilities for toppings and seasonings, you can customize your grilled corn to your heart’s content. So grab some fresh ears of corn and fire up the grill – it’s time to get grilling!
