Unlock the Secret to Perfectly Cooked Corn: How to Grill Unhusked Corn Easily!

Summertime is synonymous with backyard barbecues, and no grill-out is complete without a side of sweet, smoky corn on the cob. While many opt for the traditional method of shucking and grilling, there’s a whole new world of flavor and convenience waiting to be unlocked by grilling unhusked corn. This method not only delivers tender, juicy kernels bursting with smoky goodness, but also simplifies the grilling process, leaving you more time to enjoy your company and the warm summer evenings.

The Magic of Unhusked Corn

Grilling unhusked corn might seem unconventional, but it’s a technique that yields surprisingly delicious results. Here’s why:

• Enhanced Flavor: The husks act as a natural steamer, trapping moisture and intensifying the corn’s natural sweetness. The smoke from the grill permeates the husks, adding a smoky depth to the flavor that’s hard to replicate otherwise.
• Convenience: No more messy shucking! Simply soak the corn, toss it on the grill, and let the husks do their magic. This eliminates the need for extra prep work and allows you to focus on other grilling tasks.
• Visual Appeal: Grilled unhusked corn looks stunning on the table, with its charred husks and vibrant kernels. It’s a presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.

Choosing the Perfect Corn

Selecting the right corn is crucial for a successful grilling experience. Here’s what to look for:

• Freshness: Choose corn that’s been recently picked, with vibrant green husks and plump kernels. Avoid corn with brown spots or wilted husks.
• Size: Opt for ears that are about 6-8 inches long. Smaller ears might cook too quickly, while larger ones may require longer grilling times.
• Variety: While any variety of corn can be grilled, sweet corn varieties like Silver Queen, Golden Bantam, or Sugar Snap are particularly well-suited for grilling.

Prepping the Corn for Grilling

Before you toss the corn on the grill, a little prep work will ensure optimal results:

1. Soaking: Submerge the corn in a large bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to hydrate the kernels and prevent them from drying out during grilling.
2. Trimming: Trim the ends of the corn stalks. This will allow the heat to penetrate the kernels more evenly.
3. Removing Silk: While you can leave the silk on, removing it will prevent it from burning and creating a bitter taste. Simply pull the silk off with your fingers or use a brush to remove it.

Grilling the Unhusked Corn

Now comes the fun part – grilling the corn! Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). If using a gas grill, heat all burners to medium-high. For charcoal grills, arrange the coals in a single layer for even heat distribution.
2. Grilling Time: Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking.
3. Checking for Doneness: The corn is done when the husks are slightly charred and the kernels are tender. You can test for doneness by gently pressing on a kernel; it should yield easily to pressure.
4. Resting: Remove the corn from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the kernels to cool slightly and prevents them from becoming too dry.

Serving and Enjoying

Once the corn has rested, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Here are some tips for serving:

• Shucking: Carefully peel back the husks. Be sure to remove any charred pieces of husk that may have stuck to the kernels.
• Seasoning: While grilled unhusked corn is delicious on its own, you can enhance its flavor with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, or your favorite seasonings.
• Sides: Grilled unhusked corn pairs perfectly with a variety of grilled meats, vegetables, and salads.
• Presentation: For a visually appealing presentation, serve the corn on a platter with a sprig of fresh herbs or a wedge of lime.

Beyond the Basics: Flavor Variations

Grilling unhusked corn opens up a world of flavor possibilities. Experiment with these variations to elevate your grilling game:

• Herbed Corn: Before grilling, rub the corn with a mixture of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary.
• Spiced Corn: Add a touch of spice to your corn by rubbing it with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
• Citrusy Corn: Infuse your corn with citrusy notes by grilling it with a few slices of lemon or orange.
• Sweet and Savory: For a sweet and savory twist, brush the corn with a mixture of honey and soy sauce before grilling.

Time to Grill!

Grilling unhusked corn is a simple yet rewarding technique that yields delicious, smoky, and flavorful results. With a few basic steps and a touch of creativity, you can elevate your next barbecue to a whole new level of deliciousness. So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy the sweet taste of summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen corn for grilling?

A: While you can technically grill frozen corn, it’s not recommended. Frozen corn often becomes mushy during the grilling process. It’s best to use fresh corn for optimal results.

Q: Can I grill unhusked corn on a gas grill?

A: Absolutely! Gas grills work just as well as charcoal grills for grilling unhusked corn. Simply preheat the grill to medium-high heat and follow the same steps as for charcoal grilling.

Q: How long can I keep unhusked corn in the fridge before grilling?

A: Unhusked corn can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to grill it as soon as possible for optimal flavor and freshness.

Q: Can I add butter to the corn after grilling?

A: Yes, you can definitely add butter to the corn after grilling. Simply melt some butter in a small saucepan and brush it over the corn. You can also add other seasonings like salt, pepper, or herbs to the butter for added flavor.

Q: What can I do with the husks after grilling?

A: Once you’ve removed the husks from the corn, you can compost them or use them as a natural fertilizer for your garden.