What To Know
- This sweet and savory treat is a crowd-pleaser, but mastering the art of how to grill ears of corn can be a bit tricky.
- Fold the husks back over the ear, securing them with a piece of kitchen twine or a rubber band.
- Grilled corn is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level with a variety of toppings and seasonings.
Summertime and grilling go hand in hand, and what better way to elevate your barbecue than with perfectly grilled ears of corn? This sweet and savory treat is a crowd-pleaser, but mastering the art of how to grill ears of corn can be a bit tricky. Fear not, because this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from selecting the perfect corn to achieving that irresistible char.
Choosing the Right Corn
The foundation of any delicious grilled corn lies in choosing the right ears. Opt for corn that is fresh, plump, and heavy for its size. Here are some tips for picking the perfect corn:
- Look for fresh husks: The husks should be green and tightly wrapped around the ear. Avoid any corn with dry or brown husks, as this indicates it’s not as fresh.
- Check for silk: The silk, the thread-like strands at the top of the ear, should be moist and not dry.
- Give it a squeeze: A good ear of corn should feel firm and plump when you gently squeeze it.
Prepping the Corn for Grilling
Once you’ve selected your corn, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. This involves removing the husks and silks, but there are a few different methods you can choose from:
Method 1: The Traditional Approach
1. Remove the husks: Peel back the husks, leaving about an inch at the bottom intact.
2. Remove the silks: Pull off the silk strands, making sure to get rid of any remaining pieces.
3. Rewrap the husks: Fold the husks back over the ear, securing them with a piece of kitchen twine or a rubber band.
Method 2: The No-Husk Method
1. Remove the husks and silks: Completely remove the husks and silks from the corn.
2. Soak in water: Soak the corn in cold water for 15-20 minutes.
3. Pat dry: Remove the corn from the water and pat it dry with paper towels.
Grilling Techniques for Flavorful Corn
Now that your corn is prepped, it’s time to get grilling! Here are two popular methods to achieve perfectly grilled corn:
Method 1: Direct Grilling
1. Preheat your grill: Heat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place the corn on the grill: If you’re using the husk-on method, place the corn directly on the grill grates. If you’re using the no-husk method, use a grilling basket to prevent the corn from rolling around.
3. Grill for 10-15 minutes: Turn the corn every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
4. Check for doneness: The corn is done when the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
Method 2: Indirect Grilling
1. Preheat your grill: Heat your gas or charcoal grill to medium heat.
2. Create an indirect heat zone: If using a gas grill, turn off one or two burners. If using a charcoal grill, move the coals to one side.
3. Place the corn on the grill: Place the corn in the indirect heat zone, away from the direct flames.
4. Grill for 20-25 minutes: Turn the corn every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking.
5. Check for doneness: The corn is done when the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
Enhancing Flavor with Toppings and Seasonings
Grilled corn is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level with a variety of toppings and seasonings. Here are some ideas:
- Butter and salt: A classic combination that never fails.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, chives, or basil add a burst of flavor.
- Spicy chili powder: For a kick of heat, sprinkle on some chili powder.
- Lime juice: A squeeze of lime juice adds a refreshing citrus touch.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or cotija cheese adds a creamy and salty flavor.
Serving Your Grilled Corn Masterpiece
Once your corn is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve it up! Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a side dish: Grilled corn is a perfect accompaniment to any barbecue or summer meal.
- In salads: Add grilled corn to salads for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- On top of tacos or burritos: Use grilled corn as a topping for tacos or burritos for a unique twist.
A Farewell to Ordinary Corn: The End of Your Grilling Journey
Congratulations, you’ve successfully mastered the art of how to grill ears of corn! From choosing the perfect corn to adding your own creative touch, you’re now equipped to create a truly memorable grilling experience. So, fire up the grill, grab your favorite toppings, and enjoy the sweet, smoky, and irresistible flavors of perfectly grilled corn.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I grill corn in the husk without soaking it?
A: While you can grill corn in the husk without soaking it, soaking it for 15-20 minutes helps to ensure that the husks steam the corn, resulting in more tender and flavorful kernels.
Q: How do I know when the corn is done?
A: The corn is done when the kernels are tender and slightly charred. You can also test the kernels by gently pressing on them with your fingernail. If the kernels give way easily, the corn is done.
Q: Can I grill corn on a gas grill?
A: Yes, you can grill corn on a gas grill. Simply preheat the grill to medium-high heat and follow the grilling instructions provided above.
Q: Can I grill corn in the oven?
A: While grilling is the preferred method for achieving that smoky char, you can also roast corn in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the corn for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Q: What are some other creative toppings for grilled corn?
A: Get creative with your toppings! Some other ideas include crumbled bacon, chopped tomatoes, avocado slices, or a drizzle of honey.
