Grilled corn on the cob is a staple of summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings. While it’s easy to throw some corn on the grill and hope for the best, cooking it in foil can help retain moisture and add flavor. But how long should you cook grilled corn in foil? In this article, we’ll explore the best methods for cooking grilled corn in foil, including cooking times, temperatures, and techniques.
Why Cook Grilled Corn in Foil?
Cooking grilled corn in foil is a great way to prepare this summer side dish for several reasons:
- Moisture retention: Foil helps to trap moisture and heat, ensuring that your corn stays juicy and tender.
- Easy cleanup: Cooking in foil means that you won’t have to worry about cleaning up sticky corn residue from your grill grates.
- Flavor enhancement: You can add aromatics like garlic, herbs, and spices to the foil with the corn, infusing it with extra flavor.
Choosing the Right Corn
Before we dive into cooking times and techniques, it’s essential to choose the right type of corn for grilling. Look for:
- Freshness: Choose corn with fresh, green husks and moist, plump kernels.
- Variety: Opt for sweet corn varieties like Silver Queen, Golden Bantam, or Honey & Cream.
- Size: Select ears of corn that are similar in size so that they cook evenly.
Preparing Grilled Corn in Foil
To prepare grilled corn in foil, you’ll need:
- Corn on the cob: 1-4 ears, depending on serving size
- Foil: Heavy-duty aluminum foil, cut into 12-inch squares
- Butter or oil: 1-2 tablespoons per ear of corn
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Optional aromatics: Garlic, herbs, spices, or other seasonings of your choice
Assembling the Foil Packets
To assemble the foil packets:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
- Shuck the corn, removing the husks and silk.
- Place an ear of corn in the center of each foil square.
- Dot the top of each ear with butter or drizzle with oil.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
- Add any desired aromatics on top of the corn.
- Fold the foil over the corn, creating a packet, and twist the ends to seal.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
The cooking time for grilled corn in foil will depend on the heat of your grill and the number of ears you’re cooking. Here are some general guidelines:
- Medium-high heat (375°F): 10-12 minutes per side, turning every 2-3 minutes
- Medium heat (350°F): 12-15 minutes per side, turning every 2-3 minutes
- Low heat (325°F): 15-18 minutes per side, turning every 2-3 minutes
Checking for Doneness
To check if your grilled corn is cooked to perfection:
- Visual inspection: Look for slightly charred and tender kernels.
- Kernel tenderness: Check that the kernels are tender and slightly softened.
- Internal temperature: Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the corn. It should reach 160°F to 170°F.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your grilled corn in foil:
- Grill marks: To achieve grill marks, cook the corn for an additional 2-3 minutes per side, without foil.
- Herb butter: Mix softened butter with chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro for added flavor.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the corn for a spicy kick.
- Lemon juice: Squeeze a sliver of fresh lemon juice over the corn for a burst of citrus flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking grilled corn in foil, avoid these common mistakes:
- Overcooking: Don’t overcook the corn, as it can become dry and tough.
- Undercooking: Make sure to cook the corn long enough to achieve tender kernels.
- Insufficient foil: Use heavy-duty foil to prevent the corn from steaming instead of grilling.
Conclusion
Cooking grilled corn in foil is a simple and effective way to prepare this summer side dish. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful grilled corn every time. Remember to choose the right type of corn, prepare the foil packets correctly, and cook the corn to the right temperature. With a little practice, you’ll be a grilled corn master in no time!
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Medium-high heat | 10-12 minutes per side | 375°F |
| Medium heat | 12-15 minutes per side | 350°F |
| Low heat | 15-18 minutes per side | 325°F |
By following these guidelines and tips, you’ll be able to cook delicious grilled corn in foil that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Happy grilling!
What are the benefits of grilling corn in foil?
Grilling corn in foil is a popular method for preparing this summer side dish, and for good reason. One of the main benefits of grilling corn in foil is that it helps to retain moisture and heat, resulting in a tender and juicy ear of corn. Additionally, grilling corn in foil makes it easy to add flavorings such as butter, herbs, and spices, which can infuse into the corn as it cooks.
Another benefit of grilling corn in foil is that it makes cleanup a breeze. Simply throw away the foil and you’re done – no need to worry about scrubbing away at a grill grate or dealing with a messy pot of boiling water. This method is also great for camping or outdoor cooking, as it allows you to cook corn over an open flame without having to worry about it getting charred or burnt.
How do I prepare the corn for grilling in foil?
To prepare the corn for grilling in foil, start by husking the ears of corn and removing the silk. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk or debris. Next, pat the corn dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the corn cook more evenly and prevent it from steaming instead of grilling.
You can also add any desired seasonings or flavorings to the corn at this stage. Some popular options include butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Simply spread the seasonings evenly over the corn, making sure to get both sides.
What type of foil is best for grilling corn?
When it comes to grilling corn in foil, it’s best to use heavy-duty aluminum foil. This type of foil is thicker and more durable than regular foil, which makes it less likely to tear or puncture when cooking. Heavy-duty foil is also more heat-resistant, which means it can withstand the high temperatures of the grill without melting or warping.
You can find heavy-duty aluminum foil at most grocery stores or home goods stores. Look for foil that is specifically labeled as “heavy-duty” or “grill-safe” to ensure that it can withstand the heat of the grill.
How long does it take to grill corn in foil?
The cooking time for grilled corn in foil will depend on the heat of your grill and the number of ears of corn you are cooking. As a general rule, it’s best to cook the corn over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
You can check the corn for doneness by carefully removing it from the foil and checking the kernels. They should be tender and lightly browned. If the corn is not yet cooked to your liking, simply return it to the foil and continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Can I add other ingredients to the foil with the corn?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the foil with the corn to create a delicious and flavorful side dish. Some popular options include sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can also add herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder, to give the corn an extra boost of flavor.
When adding other ingredients to the foil with the corn, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, if you’re adding sliced onions, you may need to cook the corn for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure that the onions are tender.
How do I serve grilled corn in foil?
Grilled corn in foil is a versatile side dish that can be served in a variety of ways. One popular option is to serve it as is, straight from the foil. You can also slather the corn with butter, sour cream, or mayonnaise for added flavor and creaminess.
Another option is to use the grilled corn as a topping for other dishes, such as salads, tacos, or grilled meats. Simply slice the corn off the cob and sprinkle it over your desired dish. You can also use grilled corn in foil as an ingredient in other recipes, such as soups, stews, and casseroles.
Can I grill corn in foil in the oven instead of on the grill?
Yes, you can grill corn in foil in the oven instead of on the grill. This is a great option if you don’t have access to a grill or if you prefer the convenience of cooking in the oven. To cook corn in foil in the oven, simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the foil-wrapped corn on a baking sheet.
Cook the corn for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. You can check the corn for doneness by carefully removing it from the foil and checking the kernels. They should be tender and lightly browned.