Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. While many people prefer to buy pre-husked corn from the grocery store, cooking corn from the husk can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only does it allow you to enjoy the freshest possible corn, but it also adds a touch of rustic charm to your meal. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook corn from the husk, including how to select the best corn, how to prepare it for cooking, and how to cook it to perfection.
Choosing the Right Corn
Before you can start cooking corn from the husk, you need to choose the right ears. Here are a few things to look for:
- Look for ears with a tight, green husk. This will help to keep the corn moist and fresh.
- Choose ears with a slightly soft spot at the base. This indicates that the corn is ripe and ready to eat.
- Check the color of the silk. The silk should be a light brown or golden color. If it’s dark brown or black, the corn may be past its prime.
- Give the ear a sniff. Fresh corn should have a sweet, slightly earthy aroma. If it smells sour or unpleasantly sweet, it may be spoiled.
Types of Corn
There are several types of corn that you can cook from the husk, including:
- Silver Queen: This is a classic variety of corn that’s known for its tender, sweet kernels.
- Golden Bantam: This variety has a slightly sweeter flavor than Silver Queen and a more tender texture.
- Honey and Cream: This variety has a sweet, creamy flavor and a tender texture.
Preparing the Corn for Cooking
Once you’ve chosen your corn, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here’s how:
- Soak the corn in water for at least 30 minutes. This will help to loosen the husks and make them easier to remove.
- Remove the husks and silk. You can do this by hand or with a vegetable brush. Be sure to remove as much of the silk as possible, as it can be a bit tough and fibrous.
- Trim the ends of the ears. This will help to remove any tough or damaged kernels.
- Rinse the corn under cold running water. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may be clinging to the kernels.
Cooking Methods
There are several ways to cook corn from the husk, including:
- Boiling: This is a classic method for cooking corn. Simply place the ears in a large pot of boiling water and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the kernels are tender.
- Grilling: This method adds a smoky flavor to the corn. Simply place the ears on a preheated grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently, or until the kernels are tender.
- Roasting</: This method brings out the natural sweetness of the corn. Simply place the ears on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the kernels are tender.
Cooking Corn from the Husk: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a closer look at how to cook corn from the husk. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Boiling Corn from the Husk
Boiling is a classic method for cooking corn from the husk. Here’s how:
- Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the ears of corn.
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Add the ears of corn to the pot.
- Cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the kernels are tender.
- Remove the ears from the pot and serve hot.
Timing is Everything
The key to cooking perfect corn from the husk is to cook it for the right amount of time. Here’s a general guideline:
- 5 minutes for small ears of corn
- 7-8 minutes for medium ears of corn
- 10 minutes for large ears of corn
Grilling Corn from the Husk
Grilling is a great way to add a smoky flavor to your corn. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the ears of corn on the grill.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently, or until the kernels are tender.
- Remove the ears from the grill and serve hot.
Getting a Good Char
One of the best things about grilling corn from the husk is the char that you get on the kernels. Here are a few tips for getting a good char:
- Make sure the grill is hot. You want the grill to be hot enough to sear the kernels and give them a good char.
- Don’t be afraid to get a little messy. You want to get the corn close enough to the flames to get a good char.
- Turn the corn frequently. This will help to ensure that the kernels are cooked evenly and that you get a good char on all sides.
Roasting Corn from the Husk
Roasting is a great way to bring out the natural sweetness of the corn. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the ears of corn on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the kernels are tender.
- Remove the ears from the oven and serve hot.
Getting the Best Flavor
One of the best things about roasting corn from the husk is the flavor that you get. Here are a few tips for getting the best flavor:
- Use a little bit of oil. You want to use just enough oil to coat the kernels and bring out their natural sweetness.
- Add some seasonings. You can add some salt, pepper, and herbs to the corn to give it a bit more flavor.
- Don’t overcook the corn. You want to cook the corn just until it’s tender. Overcooking can make the kernels tough and dry.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you get the most out of your corn:
- Add some butter or cream. You can add some butter or cream to the corn to give it a bit more flavor and moisture.
- Try different seasonings. You can try different seasonings, such as paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder, to give the corn a bit more flavor.
- Add some cheese. You can sprinkle some grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, over the corn to give it a bit more flavor.
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling | 5-10 minutes | 212°F (100°C) |
| Grilling | 10-15 minutes | 375°F (190°C) |
| Roasting | 20-25 minutes | 400°F (200°C) |
Conclusion
Cooking corn from the husk is a fun and rewarding experience that’s perfect for summer gatherings and barbecues. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can enjoy delicious, tender corn that’s full of flavor and moisture. Whether you prefer to boil, grill, or roast your corn, there’s a method out there that’s sure to please. So next time you’re at the grocery store or farmer’s market, be sure to pick up a few ears of corn and give cooking from the husk a try.
What is the best way to cook corn from the husk?
Cooking corn from the husk is a simple process that requires minimal preparation. To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Next, place the corn on the husk directly on the middle rack of the oven. You can cook multiple ears of corn at the same time, depending on the size of your oven.
The husk will help to steam the corn, keeping it moist and flavorful. You can cook the corn for 20-25 minutes, or until the kernels are tender and lightly browned. You can also check for doneness by carefully removing an ear of corn from the oven and peeling back the husk. If the kernels are not yet tender, return the corn to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Can I cook corn from the husk on the grill?
Yes, you can cook corn from the husk on the grill. To do this, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the husk directly on the grill grates, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. You can cook the corn for 10-15 minutes, or until the kernels are tender and lightly charred.
Grilling the corn will add a smoky flavor to the kernels, which pairs well with butter, salt, and pepper. You can also rotate the corn 90 degrees after 5 minutes to create a crosshatch pattern on the kernels. This will add a decorative touch to the corn, making it perfect for summer barbecues and picnics.
How do I remove the husk from the corn after cooking?
Removing the husk from the corn after cooking is a simple process. To start, carefully remove the corn from the oven or grill using a pair of tongs or oven mitts. Next, peel back the husk, starting at the top of the ear of corn. The husk should come off easily, revealing the tender kernels underneath.
You can also remove the silk from the corn by gently pulling it away from the kernels. This will help to remove any remaining husk or debris from the corn. Finally, you can rinse the corn under cold running water to remove any remaining silk or debris.
Can I cook corn from the husk in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook corn from the husk in the microwave. To do this, place the corn on the husk in the microwave, cooking on high for 2-3 minutes per ear of corn. You can cook multiple ears of corn at the same time, depending on the size of your microwave.
Microwaving the corn will help to steam the kernels, keeping them moist and flavorful. However, be careful when removing the corn from the microwave as it may be hot. You can also check for doneness by carefully removing an ear of corn from the microwave and peeling back the husk. If the kernels are not yet tender, return the corn to the microwave for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
How do I store cooked corn from the husk?
Cooked corn from the husk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store the corn, place it in an airtight container, such as a plastic bag or container with a tight-fitting lid. You can also store the corn in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Before storing the corn, make sure it has cooled to room temperature. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. You can also add a tablespoon of butter or oil to the corn to help keep it moist and flavorful.
Can I use frozen corn from the husk?
Yes, you can use frozen corn from the husk. To do this, simply thaw the frozen corn in the refrigerator or at room temperature. You can then cook the corn using your preferred method, such as grilling, boiling, or microwaving.
Frozen corn from the husk is a convenient alternative to fresh corn, and it can be just as delicious. However, be aware that frozen corn may have a softer texture than fresh corn. You can also add a tablespoon of butter or oil to the corn to help restore its natural flavor and texture.
Is cooking corn from the husk healthy?
Yes, cooking corn from the husk is a healthy way to prepare corn. Corn is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and it is low in calories and fat. Cooking the corn from the husk helps to retain these nutrients, making it a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal.
You can also add herbs and spices to the corn to enhance its flavor and nutritional value. For example, you can add a sprinkle of paprika or chili powder to the corn for a spicy kick. You can also squeeze a sliver of fresh lime juice over the corn for a burst of citrus flavor.