Perfectly Grilled Corn on the Cob
Who doesn’t love biting into a juicy, slightly charred ear of corn on the cob? Grilling corn brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delicious smoky flavor that can’t be replicated. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a summer evening, perfectly grilled corn on the cob is a must-have. In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks to help you achieve corn perfection on your grill.
Choosing the Right Corn
When it comes to grilling corn on the cob, selecting the right corn is crucial. Look for ears of corn that have bright green husks, tightly wrapped, and free from any blemishes or mold. The kernels should be plump and evenly spaced. Opt for fresh, local corn whenever possible for the best flavor and texture.
Preparing the Corn
Before grilling, you’ll need to prepare the corn by removing the husks and silks. Gently peel back the husks, leaving them attached at the base, and remove the silks. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk strands. This step ensures that your corn cooks evenly and allows the grill’s heat to penetrate the kernels.
Soaking the Corn
Soaking the corn before grilling is a game-changer. It helps prevent the husks from burning and keeps the corn moist and tender. Fill a large container or sink with cold water and submerge the corn for at least 30 minutes. The water penetrates the husks, creating steam when grilled, resulting in perfectly cooked corn.
Seasoning Options
Now comes the fun part – seasoning your corn! There are endless options when it comes to flavoring your grilled corn. You can keep it simple by brushing the ears with melted butter and sprinkling them with salt and pepper. Or, you can get creative and experiment with different seasonings like chili powder, garlic powder, or grated Parmesan cheese. The choice is yours!
Grilling Techniques
When it’s time to grill the corn, there are a few techniques you can try. One popular method is grilling the corn directly on the grates. Simply place the corn on a preheated grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. Another option is to wrap each ear of corn in aluminum foil with a pat of butter before grilling. This method creates a steamy environment that results in incredibly juicy corn.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled corn on the cob is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by adding some toppings. Brush the grilled corn with lime juice and sprinkle it with crumbled feta cheese and fresh cilantro for a Mexican twist. Or, slather the corn with a mixture of mayonnaise, chili powder, and lime zest for a tangy and spicy flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
Grilling corn on the cob brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that elevates this summer staple. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly grilled corn every time. So fire up your grill, grab some corn, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering treat that will impress everyone at your next cookout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long should I soak the corn before grilling?
A: It’s best to soak the corn for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Q: Can I grill corn without removing the husks?
A: Yes, you can grill corn with the husks on, but it won’t have the same charred flavor.
Q: Can I grill frozen corn on the cob?
A: Yes, you can grill frozen corn on the cob. Just make sure to thaw it first.
Q: How do I know when the corn is done?
A: The corn is done when the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
Q: Can I grill corn on a gas grill?
A: Absolutely! Gas grills work great for grilling corn on the cob.
Q: Can I grill corn on a charcoal grill?
A: Yes, charcoal grills are perfect for achieving that smoky flavor when grilling corn.
Q: Can I grill corn indoors?
A: While grilling corn indoors is possible using a grill pan or an indoor grill, it won’t have the same smoky flavor as outdoor grilling.
Q: What are some other toppings I can try?
A: You can try toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, or a drizzle of hot sauce to add extra flavor to your grilled corn.
Perfectly Grilled Corn on the Cob

- Ingredients:
- 8 ears of corn
- Salt (preferably kosher)
- BBQ Butter (see recipe below)
- Herb Butter (see recipe below)
- 2 tablespoons of canola oil
- 1/2 small red onion (, finely chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (, finely chopped)
- 2 teaspoons of Spanish paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne powder
- 1 teaspoon of toasted cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon of ancho chili powder
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter (, slightly softened)
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (, to taste)
- 2 sticks of unsalted butter (, at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs (such as basil (, chives, or tarragon))
- 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper (, to taste)
- Note: The BBQ Butter and Herb Butter recipes will be provided separately.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Gently pull down the outer husks of the corn and remove the silk by hand.
- Fold the husks back and place the corn in a large bowl of cold water with 1 tablespoon of salt for 10 minutes.
- Remove the corn from the water and shake off any excess moisture.
- Place the corn on the grill, cover, and grill for 15 to 20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes, until the kernels are tender when pierced with a knife.
- Remove the husks from the corn and either eat it on the cob or remove the kernels.
- Serve the corn hot with BBQ Butter and/or Herb Butter spread over it.
- Heat the oil in a saute pan over high heat until it is almost smoking.
- Add the onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes soft.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the paprika, cayenne, cumin, and ancho powder to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
- Add 1/2 cup of water and cook until the mixture thickens and the water reduces.
- Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Place the butter in a food processor and add the spice mixture and Worcestershire sauce. Process until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper, scrape the mixture into a small bowl, cover,
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