How to Cook Corn on the Cob, 3 Ways
Three easy methods for making the most of your summer corn.
Fresh, delicious corn on the cob is a classic summer side. It pairs wonderfully with burgers, ribs, BBQ, and is fantastic for a fun summer cookout, or back yard barbecue. Fresh corn—when prepped and prepared at its freshest—will render crisp, sweet kernels that will make everyone come back for seconds!
Fromg boiling to grilling, here are three great ways to cook this delicious summer veggie, as well as tips and tricks for preparation.
1 Removing the Husk
Starting at the top of the cob, pull back as much silk and husk as possible. Pull all the way to the bottom of the stem, until all of the husks are at the end of the cob.
2 Break Off Cob Stem and Husks
Once you’ve pulled all of the husk and silk to the bottom of the cob, firmly break off the cob stem. The husks and stem will immediately come off in one piece. Discard all husk, silk and stems.
3 Remove Any Remaining Silk
Pull off any remaining corn silk. It is helpful to run the cob under cold water, and gently pull off any remaining strands that are stuck between the kernels.
4 Trim Tips of Cobs if Necessary
If the corn cobs have brown or discolored tips, use a serrated knife to remove the discolored kernels. If there is no browning or discoloration, the corn can be cooked as-is, with no trimming necessary. Rinse the corn, and gently pat dry with paper towels. The corn is now ready to cook.
5 Cooking Method #1: Boiled Corn
Boiling corn on the cob is the most traditional cooking method. It is very simple and requires just a couple steps. First, fill a large stockpot two-thirds full of water. Add a couple teaspoons of salt, and 3-6 cobs of corn. Heat the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Boil corn, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes.
Once the corn is done cooking, the kernels will become bright yellow. Transfer the cobs to a serving plate. They will be very hot, so let them cool slightly for 5-10 minutes before serving.
6 Cooking Method #2: Slow Cooker-Steamed Corn
Using a slow cooker to steam fresh corn is a wonderfully simple, convenient and hands-off cooking method. This is especially true when preparing the corn for a party, cookout or any other get-together.
Start by adding 3-6 prepped cobs of corn to a slow cooker. Add 4 cups of water to the bottom of the slow cooker. Set slow cooker to the high heat setting. Once water begins to simmer, set a timer for 15 minutes.
After steaming for 15 minutes, remove the cobs from the slow cooker, and serve right away. Corn can also be kept warm in the slow cooker for serving at a party. Be sure to turn off the heat to prevent over-cooking.
7 Cooking Method #3: Grilled Corn
Grilling is a fantastic way to cook this summer veggie, especially if you’re grilling other food like burgers and chicken. It will result in smoky-sweet kernels that are a nice change to the standard corn flavor.
Begin grilling corn by brushing the prepped cobs with olive oil. Avoid using butter, as it will burn when placed on the hot grill grates. Place cobs on hot grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side.
Turn the corn often, to prevent over-char on any one side. Cook until all sides have a medium brown. Remove from grill, and serve right away.
