What To Know
- The husk acts as a natural steamer, trapping moisture and infusing the corn with a subtle sweetness.
- Serve the corn hot off the grill with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy kick.
Summer is synonymous with backyard barbecues, and what better way to elevate your grilling game than with perfectly grilled corn on the cob? But let’s face it, the traditional method of grilling corn in its husk can be a bit hit-or-miss. Sometimes it’s undercooked, sometimes it’s burnt, and sometimes it just doesn’t have that irresistible char we crave. That’s where the art of grilling husked corn comes in. This technique unlocks a world of flavor and texture, delivering juicy, smoky, and oh-so-delicious corn that will have everyone asking for more.
Why Husked Corn?
You might be wondering, why go through the extra effort of grilling husked corn when you can simply remove the husk and grill it directly? Well, the answer lies in the magic of the husk itself. The husk acts as a natural steamer, trapping moisture and infusing the corn with a subtle sweetness. The result is corn that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Plus, the husk creates a protective barrier, preventing the corn from burning and ensuring even cooking.
Choosing the Right Corn
The first step to grilling perfect husked corn is selecting the freshest, most flavorful ears. Here’s what to look for:
- Look for plump, firm ears. Avoid any corn that feels soft or has signs of damage.
- Check the husks. The husks should be fresh and green, not dry or brown.
- Feel the silks. The silks should be attached to the ear and not easily pulled away.
- Look for ears with a good balance of kernels. You want ears with evenly spaced, plump kernels.
Preparing the Corn
Once you’ve chosen your corn, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Remove the outer layer of husks. This will help the corn cook more evenly.
2. Trim the silks. Use a sharp knife or your fingers to remove the silks.
3. Soak the corn. Submerge the corn in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to rehydrate the husks and ensures the corn cooks evenly.
4. Optional: Add flavor. For an extra layer of flavor, you can add seasonings to the soaking water. Try herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil, or add a splash of citrus juice.
5. Pat the corn dry. Remove the corn from the water and pat it dry with paper towels.
Grilling the Corn
Now comes the fun part! Here’s how to grill husked corn to perfection:
1. Preheat your grill. Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. Place the corn on the grill. Arrange the corn on the grill, ensuring there’s enough space between each ear for even cooking.
3. Close the lid. Let the corn cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure all sides are cooked evenly.
4. Check for doneness. The corn is done when the husks are slightly charred and the kernels are tender.
5. Remove from the grill. Carefully remove the corn from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Your Grilled Corn
There are endless ways to enjoy your perfectly grilled husked corn. Here are a few ideas:
- Simple and Classic: Serve the corn hot off the grill with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Delight: Mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy treat.
- Herby Freshness: Top with fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives for a burst of flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory combination.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your grilled husked corn is a hit:
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Give each ear of corn plenty of space to cook evenly.
- Use a grill brush. Clean your grill grates before grilling to prevent sticking.
- Keep an eye on the corn. Check the corn frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn.
- Let the corn rest. Allow the corn to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
Beyond the Backyard
Grilled husked corn isn’t just for backyard barbecues. It’s also a delicious and impressive addition to any summer gathering, picnic, or potluck. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with just about anything, from grilled meats and fish to salads and sandwiches.
The Sweet End of the Grill
Grilling husked corn is more than just a cooking technique; it’s a journey of flavor and texture. From the simple act of choosing the right corn to the satisfying char of the husks, each step brings you closer to a truly unforgettable culinary experience. So, grab your grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to savor the sweet and smoky goodness of perfectly grilled husked corn.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I grill husked corn without soaking it?
A: It’s highly recommended to soak husked corn before grilling. Soaking rehydrates the husks, which helps to steam the corn and prevents it from drying out.
Q: How long can I soak husked corn?
A: You can soak husked corn for as little as 30 minutes or as long as overnight. The longer you soak it, the more tender the corn will be.
Q: Can I grill husked corn on a gas grill?
A: Absolutely! Gas grills are great for grilling husked corn. Just make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high heat before placing the corn on the grates.
Q: What if my corn is a bit dry?
A: If your corn is a bit dry, you can try adding a little bit of water to the grill grates before placing the corn on them. This will help to create a steamy environment and prevent the corn from drying out.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the husks?
A: Yes! You can add herbs, spices, citrus zest, or even a bit of butter to the husks before grilling. This will infuse the corn with additional flavor.
