Grilling is one of my favorite ways to cook during the summer, and nothing beats the taste of fresh corn on the cob.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a quick and easy side dish, grilling corn on the cob is a great way to add a delicious touch to any meal.
However, getting the perfect results can be a little tricky if you’re not familiar with the process.
That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate guide for grilling corn on the cob, so you can impress your guests with delicious, perfectly cooked corn every time.
Before you get started, it’s important to choose the best corn possible.
Look for ears that are firm, plump, and not too dried out.
You’ll also want to make sure the husks are still attached and have a bright green color.
Once you’ve got your corn, it’s time to get prepping and grilling.
With a few simple tips and tricks, you’ll be able to cook up a delicious, crowd-pleasing side dish in no time.
So fire up the grill and let’s get started!
Select the Best Corn
You can’t go wrong with choosing the freshest corn available at your local farmers market or grocery store. When it comes to selecting the best corn for grilling, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, consider the different varieties of corn available. While sweet corn is the most popular choice, there are also white, yellow, and bi-color varieties to choose from. Each has its own unique flavor profile, so it’s worth trying different types to see which you like best.
Another factor to consider is the freshness of the corn versus its shelf life. While it’s tempting to choose corn that looks pristine and perfect, it’s important to remember that corn starts to lose its sweetness as soon as it’s picked. Look for corn that has been picked within the past day or two, and avoid any that look dried out or have brown spots.
Additionally, consider opting for organic corn over GMO varieties. While there’s some debate over whether organic corn is truly better for grilling, choosing organic ensures that your corn is free from harmful pesticides and other chemicals.
Prep the Corn
First things first, grab a sharp knife and carefully peel back the layers of the husk like unwrapping a gift to reveal the sweet, golden kernels inside.
Once the husk is removed, it’s time to remove the silks. This can be done by using a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to gently rub the corn. Make sure to remove all the silks as they can burn on the grill and leave a bitter taste.
After removing the silks, it’s time to season the corn. There are many options for seasoning, including butter, salt, pepper, and herbs such as cilantro or parsley. For a smoky flavor, you can also brush the corn with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle it with smoked paprika.
Whatever seasoning you choose, make sure to evenly coat the corn and wrap it back up in the husk. This will help keep the moisture in and prevent the corn from drying out on the grill.
With these simple prep steps, you’ll be able to grill up some delicious and flavorful corn on the cob.
Key Takeaway: Properly preparing corn on the cob by removing the husk and silks, seasoning it, and wrapping it back up in the husk will result in delicious grilled corn. Expert Tips: 1. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the husk without cutting into the kernels. 2. Make sure to remove all of the silks to prevent them from burning. 3. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings for unique flavors. 4. Wrapping the corn back up in the husk helps retain moisture during grilling.
Grill the Corn
Once the husk has been seasoned and wrapped back up, it’s time to fire up the grill and get ready for some mouthwatering goodness.
Before grilling the corn, it’s important to preheat the grill to a medium-high temperature. This will ensure that the corn cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
Next, place the corn directly on the grill grates. Rotate the corn every 2-3 minutes, until the husk is charred and the kernels are tender. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
To add some extra flavor, consider brushing the corn with melted butter or olive oil during the last few minutes of grilling.
Once the corn is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, unwrap the husk and enjoy!
With these simple steps, you can grill corn on the cob that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Check for Doneness
Now it’s time to make sure your corn is perfectly cooked by checking for doneness. Grilling corn on the cob can be a bit tricky, but with the right grilling techniques, you can ensure that your corn is cooked perfectly.
The key to checking doneness is to look for the right color and texture. You want your corn to be golden brown with charred spots, and the kernels should be tender and juicy. One way to check for doneness is to use a fork to pierce one of the kernels. If it slides easily into the kernel, your corn is done.
Another way is to gently press on the kernels with your fingers. If they give a little and feel tender, your corn is ready to be taken off the grill. Once your corn is done, it’s time to add seasoning options. Whether you prefer butter, salt, pepper, or a combination of all three, seasoning your corn can elevate the flavor and make your dish truly delicious.
Key Takeaway: To check for doneness, look for golden brown color with charred spots and tender, juicy kernels. Use a fork or gently press on the kernels to ensure they are cooked. Season your corn with butter, salt, pepper, or a combination for added flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
To fully savor your perfectly grilled corn, don’t forget to serve it hot and drizzle it with your favorite seasoning. There are so many creative toppings you can use to take your corn to the next level. From classic butter and salt to more adventurous options like chipotle mayo or parmesan cheese, the possibilities are endless. You can also turn your grilled corn into a complete dish by adding other ingredients like beans, avocado, or tomatoes. Here are some ideas to get you started:
| Topping | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Chimichurri | A tangy herb sauce made with parsley, garlic, and vinegar | Grilled corn with chimichurri and feta cheese |
| Elote | Mexican street corn with mayo, cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder | Grilled elote-style corn with cilantro and lime |
| Parmesan | Shredded parmesan cheese with black pepper and lemon juice | Grilled corn with parmesan and lemon pepper |
Experiment with different combinations and see what you like best. Grilled corn is not only delicious but also versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative with it.
If you’re looking for more corn dishes, there are plenty of options to choose from. Corn can be used in salads, soups, stews, and even desserts. Some popular recipes include corn chowder, cornbread, corn fritters, and corn pudding. Corn is also a great addition to summer salads, adding sweetness and crunch to any dish. Whether you’re making a simple side or a complex entree, corn is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any meal.
To Sum Up ðŸ’
Well, I have to say, after writing this ultimate guide on how to grill corn on the cob, I feel like a bit of a corn expert.
It’s amazing how much there is to know about something so seemingly simple. But let me tell you, once you’ve tasted perfectly grilled corn on the cob, you’ll never go back to boiling it in a pot.
So go ahead, impress your friends and family at your next BBQ with your newfound corn-grilling skills. They may think you’re just grilling some corn, but little do they know, you’re a corn mastermind.
And who knows, maybe you’ll even start to see corn in a whole new light. It’s not just a side dish, it’s a culinary masterpiece.
Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill corn on an indoor grill or do I need an outdoor grill?
Oh, dear me, I’m positively tickled by the notion of indoor grilling! But to answer your question, yes, you can grill corn on the cob indoors, just as you can outdoors. It’s all about the equipment and technique, my dear.
How long can I keep uncooked corn on the cob before grilling it?
To ensure optimal shelf life, store uncooked corn on the cob in the fridge with the husks on. Pre-grilling preparation involves soaking the corn for at least 30 minutes. These steps ensure delicious results.
Should I remove the husk before or after grilling the corn?
When grilling corn on the cob, I prefer to remove the husk before cooking. The pros include faster cooking time and a smokier flavor. However, alternative cooking methods like steaming or boiling require the husk to be kept on for moisture retention.
What are some recommended seasonings or toppings for grilled corn on the cob?
For grilled corn toppings, I recommend butter, salt, and pepper for a classic option. For something more adventurous, try cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder. Don’t forget to experiment with herbs like thyme or cilantro for added flavor.
How should I store leftover grilled corn on the cob?
Leftover grilled corn? Oh, the horror! But fear not, fellow corn connoisseur. The best storage method is in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat by grilling or microwaving. Creative uses? Cut kernels off cob for salads or mix into salsa.
Looking for other BBQ Guides and tips? You should check out some of these articles!
