Spicy Korean-Style Grilled Corn

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Who doesn't love a delicious ear of corn? It's a summer staple that brings back memories of backyard barbecues and warm evenings spent with loved ones.

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Spicy Korean-Style Grilled Corn
Servings
4

Method

  1. Prepare a grill for medium-high heat and oil the grate.

  2. In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup crema mexicana or sour cream, ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 Tbsp. gochujang, zest of 1 lime, 1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice, 1 finely chopped garlic clove, 1 Tbsp. coarsely chopped cilantro, and ½ tsp. ancho or chipotle chile powder. Stir well.

  3. Taste the sauce and add kosher salt if needed.

  4. Grill 4 husked ears of corn, turning occasionally, until the kernels are charred in spots and tender. This will take around 10-12 minutes.

  5. Transfer the grilled corn to a platter.

  6. Use a brush or spoon to slather each ear of corn with about 2 Tbsp. of the sauce.

  7. Sprinkle the corn with more chile powder.

  8. Top the corn with ¼ cup crumbled Cotija cheese and 1 Tbsp. coarsely chopped cilantro.

  9. Serve the corn with lime wedges for squeezing over and any remaining sauce on the side.

About this recipe

Who doesn't love a delicious ear of corn? It's a summer staple that brings back memories of backyard barbecues and warm evenings spent with loved ones. But have you ever tried adding a spicy Korean twist to your grilled corn? If not, you're in for a treat! In this article, we'll explore the mouthwatering flavors of spicy Korean-style grilled corn and how you can easily recreate it at home.

The Perfect Marriage of Sweet and Spicy

Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, charred ear of corn that's been slathered with a spicy, tangy glaze. The sweetness of the corn perfectly balances out the heat from the Korean spices, creating a symphony of flavors in your mouth. It's a taste sensation that will leave you craving for more.

Unlocking the Secrets of Korean Flavors

Korean cuisine is known for its bold and complex flavors. From fiery chili paste to pungent garlic and earthy sesame oil, Korean ingredients are a treasure trove for food enthusiasts. When it comes to spicy Korean-style grilled corn, the star of the show is gochujang, a fermented chili paste that packs a punch. Mixed with other ingredients like soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil, gochujang creates a sticky, flavorful glaze that coats the corn and elevates it to new heights.

Grilling Corn to Perfection

Grilling corn is an art that requires a delicate balance of heat and timing. Too little, and you'll end up with undercooked corn; too much, and it'll turn into a charred mess. To achieve the perfect grilled corn, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Remove the husks and silk from the corn, then place them directly on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and slightly charred.

How to Make Spicy Korean-Style Grilled Corn

Now that you know the secrets behind this delectable dish, let's dive into the recipe. It's surprisingly easy to make and will impress your friends and family at your next cookout.

Ingredients:

  • Fresh corn on the cob
  • Gochujang
  • Soy sauce
  • Honey
  • Sesame oil
  • Garlic
  • Green onions

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a bowl, mix together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and chopped green onions to create the glaze.
  3. Remove the husks and silk from the corn.
  4. Brush the glaze generously onto each ear of corn.
  5. Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and slightly charred.
  6. Remove from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Conclusion

Spicy Korean-style grilled corn is a fantastic way to elevate your summer grilling game. The combination of sweet corn and spicy gochujang glaze creates a taste experience that will leave you wanting more. So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your taste buds and your friends with this irresistible dish. Spice up your summer and enjoy the bold flavors of Korean cuisine!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

While fresh corn is ideal for this recipe, you can certainly use frozen corn if that's what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw it before grilling.

. Is gochujang spicy?

Yes, gochujang is known for its spiciness. However, the level of heat can vary depending on the brand. If you prefer a milder version, you can adjust the amount of gochujang in the glaze.

. Can I make the glaze in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before using it on the corn.

. Can I grill the corn indoors?

Yes, if you don't have access to an outdoor grill, you can still enjoy spicy Korean-style grilled corn by using a stovetop grill pan or an indoor electric grill.

. Can I add other seasonings to the glaze?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative and customize the glaze by adding other seasonings like ginger, black pepper, or even a squeeze of lime juice.

. Can I use the glaze on other vegetables?

Absolutely! The spicy gochujang glaze is versatile and can be used on other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even tofu. Experiment with different combinations and enjoy the flavors!

. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by substituting honey with a vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar.

. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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