The sweet and smoky flavor of grilled corn on the cob is a staple of summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings. While many people opt for the convenience of pre-husked corn, cooking corn husks on the grill can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to this classic summer side dish. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of grilling corn husks, provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it, and offer some tips and tricks for achieving perfectly grilled corn every time.
The Benefits of Grilling Corn Husks
Grilling corn husks may seem like an extra step, but it’s worth the effort. Here are just a few benefits of grilling corn husks:
- More flavor: The husks and silk of the corn ear absorb the smoky flavor of the grill, which is then transferred to the corn kernels. This adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate with pre-husked corn.
- Moisture retention: The husks help to retain moisture in the corn, keeping it juicy and tender. This is especially important when grilling, as high heat can quickly dry out the corn.
- Easy to serve: Grilled corn husks make for a beautiful and rustic presentation. Simply place the grilled corn ears on a platter or individual plates, and let everyone peel back the husks to reveal the perfectly cooked corn inside.
Choosing the Right Corn
Not all corn is created equal when it comes to grilling. Here are a few tips for choosing the right corn:
- Look for fresh corn: Fresh corn is essential for grilling. Look for ears with bright green husks and moist, plump kernels.
- Choose the right variety: Some corn varieties are better suited for grilling than others. Look for sweet corn or silver queen corn, which have a higher moisture content and a sweeter flavor.
- Consider the size: Larger ears of corn may be more impressive, but they can be harder to grill evenly. Opt for smaller or medium-sized ears for the best results.
Preparing the Corn
Before grilling, you’ll need to prepare the corn. Here’s how:
- Soak the corn: Soak the corn ears in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This will help to rehydrate the husks and silk, making them more pliable and easier to grill.
- Remove excess silk: After soaking, remove any excess silk from the corn ears. This will help to prevent the silk from burning or smoking during grilling.
- Season the corn: Rub the corn ears with a little bit of oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add any other seasonings you like, such as garlic powder or paprika.
Grilling the Corn
Now it’s time to grill the corn. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want the grill to be hot, but not so hot that it burns the corn.
- Place the corn on the grill: Place the corn ears on the grill, rotating them slightly to ensure even cooking.
- Close the lid: Close the lid of the grill to trap the heat and smoke. This will help to infuse the corn with a rich, smoky flavor.
- Grill for 10-15 minutes: Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking. You may see the husks start to char and blacken – this is okay!
- Check for doneness: Check the corn for doneness by pulling back the husks and checking the kernels. They should be tender and lightly browned.
Tips for Achieving Perfectly Grilled Corn
Here are a few tips for achieving perfectly grilled corn:
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Grill the corn in batches if necessary, to ensure that each ear has enough room to cook evenly.
- Don’t press down on the corn: Resist the temptation to press down on the corn with your spatula, as this can cause the kernels to become dense and tough.
- Let the corn rest: Once the corn is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the kernels to retain their moisture and flavor.
Variations and Additions
While grilled corn is delicious on its own, you can also add some variations and additions to give it an extra boost of flavor. Here are a few ideas:
- Herbs and spices: Rub the corn with some chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, or sprinkle with some grated spices, such as cumin or coriander.
- Cheese and chili powder: Sprinkle some grated cheese, such as cotija or feta, over the corn, and add a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra kick.
- Lime juice and butter: Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the corn, and add a pat of butter for a rich and creamy flavor.
Grilled Corn Recipes
Here are a few grilled corn recipes to try:
- Grilled Corn with Cotija Cheese and Chili Powder: Rub the corn with some oil, salt, and pepper, and sprinkle with some grated cotija cheese and chili powder. Grill until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Grilled Corn with Lime Juice and Butter: Rub the corn with some oil, salt, and pepper, and squeeze with some fresh lime juice. Add a pat of butter and grill until the butter is melted and the corn is tender.
Conclusion
Grilling corn husks is a simple and delicious way to add some extra flavor and texture to your summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve perfectly grilled corn every time. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, grilled corn is a must-try for anyone who loves the sweet and smoky flavor of summer.
What is the best way to prepare corn husks for grilling?
To prepare corn husks for grilling, start by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. This will help to rehydrate the husks and make them more pliable. You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt to the water for extra flavor. After soaking, gently remove the husks from the water and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Once the husks are dry, you can begin to remove the silk and any loose or damaged leaves. Simply pull the silk away from the cob and discard it, then gently remove any loose leaves. This will help to ensure that the husks grill evenly and prevent any flare-ups.
How do I grill corn husks to achieve the perfect char?
To grill corn husks to perfection, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the husks on the grill, turning them every 2-3 minutes to achieve an even char. You can also rotate the husks 90 degrees to get those nice crosshatch marks. Keep an eye on the heat and adjust it as needed to prevent burning.
The key to achieving the perfect char is to cook the husks for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re nicely browned and slightly blackened. You can also check for doneness by gently pulling back the husk to reveal the cooked corn underneath. If it’s tender and lightly browned, it’s ready to eat.
Can I grill corn husks without soaking them first?
While it’s possible to grill corn husks without soaking them first, it’s not recommended. Soaking the husks helps to rehydrate them and makes them more pliable, which reduces the risk of them burning or becoming brittle on the grill. Without soaking, the husks may become dry and crackly, which can make them difficult to work with.
That being said, if you’re short on time or forget to soak the husks, you can still grill them. Just be sure to keep a close eye on them and adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. You can also try brushing the husks with a little bit of oil or butter to help keep them moist.
How do I know when the corn is cooked through?
To check if the corn is cooked through, gently pull back the husk to reveal the cooked corn underneath. If it’s tender and lightly browned, it’s ready to eat. You can also check for doneness by inserting a knife or fork into the corn. If it slides in easily, the corn is cooked.
Another way to check for doneness is to listen for the sound of the corn sizzling on the grill. When the corn is cooked, it will start to sizzle and crackle, which is a sign that it’s ready to eat. Just be sure to keep an eye on the heat and adjust it as needed to prevent burning.
Can I add flavorings to the corn husks before grilling?
Yes, you can definitely add flavorings to the corn husks before grilling. One way to do this is to mix some herbs and spices into the water when you’re soaking the husks. You can also try brushing the husks with a little bit of oil or butter and sprinkling some seasonings on top.
Some popular flavorings for grilled corn include garlic, paprika, chili powder, and lime juice. You can also try using different types of oil, such as olive or avocado oil, to add a unique flavor to the corn. Just be sure to adjust the amount of seasoning according to your taste preferences.
How do I store leftover grilled corn husks?
To store leftover grilled corn husks, simply wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the husks for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply wrap the husks in foil and grill them over low heat for a few minutes, or until they’re warmed through.
It’s also worth noting that grilled corn husks make a great addition to salads, soups, and other dishes. You can also use them as a topping for tacos or grilled meats. Just be sure to reheat the husks before using them to ensure food safety.
Can I grill corn husks in a gas grill or only in a charcoal grill?
You can grill corn husks in either a gas grill or a charcoal grill. The key is to make sure the grill is preheated to the right temperature and that you’re turning the husks frequently to achieve an even char. Gas grills can provide a more consistent heat, which can be beneficial for grilling corn husks.
That being said, charcoal grills can add a smoky flavor to the corn that’s hard to replicate with a gas grill. If you’re using a charcoal grill, just be sure to adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. You can also try using wood chips or chunks to add extra flavor to the corn.