What To Know
- Grilling corn on the cob is a summertime staple, and there’s nothing quite like the smoky, charred flavor that comes from grilling it with the husk on.
- To check if the corn is cooked through, gently peel back a husk and poke a kernel with a fork.
- You can use a smoker or even a grill with a smoking box.
Grilling corn on the cob is a summertime staple, and there’s nothing quite like the smoky, charred flavor that comes from grilling it with the husk on. But how do you achieve that perfect balance of sweetness and char without ending up with burnt husks? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of grilling ears of corn with husk, from selecting the right corn to achieving that irresistible smoky flavor.
Choosing the Perfect Corn
The foundation of any delicious grilled corn starts with selecting the freshest, sweetest corn. Here’s what to look for:
- Freshness: Choose corn that has been harvested recently. Look for ears with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the kernels. Avoid corn with dry, brown husks, as these are signs of old corn.
- Kernel Size: Feel the kernels. They should be plump and firm, not soft or shriveled.
- Silks: The silks, which are the threads attached to the kernels, should be fresh and moist. Avoid corn with dry or discolored silks.
- Weight: A heavy ear of corn usually means it’s full of kernels.
Prepping Your Corn for Grilling
Once you have your perfect corn, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. This involves removing the outer layer of husks and cleaning the silks.
1. Remove Outer Husks: Peel back the outer layer of husks, but leave the inner layers intact. This helps protect the kernels during grilling.
2. Clean the Silks: Carefully remove the silks from the ear of corn. You can use your fingers or a sharp knife to do this. A gentle tug should easily remove the silks.
3. Soak the Corn: Soaking the corn in cold water for about 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent the husks from burning and adds moisture to the kernels.
Grilling Time: The Art of Perfect Char
Now comes the fun part: grilling your corn. Here’s how to achieve that perfect balance of smoky flavor and tender kernels:
1. Prepare Your Grill: Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, let the coals turn gray before placing the corn on the grill.
2. Place the Corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates with the husks still intact.
3. Grilling Time: Grill the corn for about 15-20 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking. The husks will start to char and brown, and you’ll notice the kernels become tender.
4. Check for Doneness: To check if the corn is cooked through, gently peel back a husk and poke a kernel with a fork. If it’s tender and juicy, it’s ready.
Enhance Your Grilled Corn with Flavor
Plain grilled corn is delicious, but adding a little extra flavor can elevate it to a whole new level. Here are some ideas:
- Butter and Salt: A classic combination that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Simply brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt after grilling.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices like paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, or cumin. You can sprinkle them directly on the corn before grilling or mix them with butter and brush onto the corn after grilling.
- Citrus: Add a touch of brightness with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice.
- Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on the corn for a savory touch.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Corn Grilling Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics, get creative with your grilling techniques. Here are a few ideas to try:
- Wrap in Foil: For extra moisture and flavor, wrap the corn in aluminum foil before grilling. You can add butter, herbs, or spices inside the foil.
- Grill with Skewers: If you’re worried about the corn rolling around on the grill, skewer it with metal or wooden skewers before grilling.
- Smoke It: For a truly unique flavor, try smoking your corn. You can use a smoker or even a grill with a smoking box.
The Sweet Finale: Serving Your Grilled Corn
Your perfectly grilled corn is ready to be enjoyed. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a Side Dish: Grilled corn is a delicious side dish for any barbecue or summer meal.
- In Salads: Add grilled corn to salads for a burst of flavor and texture.
- In Tacos: Top your tacos with grilled corn for a unique and flavorful twist.
- As a Snack: Enjoy grilled corn on its own as a satisfying and healthy snack.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I grill corn with the husks on in the oven?
A: Yes, you can grill corn with the husks on in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and bake the corn for about 30-40 minutes, turning halfway through.
Q: What if the husks burn before the corn is cooked?
A: If the husks start to burn before the corn is cooked, you can wrap the corn in aluminum foil for the remaining cooking time. This will help prevent the husks from burning further and allow the corn to cook through.
Q: How long can I store grilled corn?
A: Grilled corn can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or grill it until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze grilled corn?
A: Yes, you can freeze grilled corn. Cool the corn completely after grilling, then remove the kernels from the cob and freeze in a freezer-safe bag.
Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: You can still enjoy the smoky flavor of grilled corn without a grill. Simply wrap the corn in aluminum foil with butter, herbs, or spices, and bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for about 30-40 minutes.
Grilling corn with husk is a simple yet rewarding culinary experience. With these tips and tricks, you can easily create a delicious and memorable summer dish. So fire up your grill and get ready to enjoy the sweet and smoky goodness of perfectly grilled corn on the cob!
