Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, and outdoor gatherings. When cooked on a Green Egg, a type of ceramic grill, the result is a smoky, slightly charred flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the corn. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook corn on the Green Egg to perfection.
Choosing the Right Corn
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of corn. For grilling, you want to select ears of corn that are fresh, plump, and have a high moisture content. Here are a few tips for choosing the best corn:
- Look for ears with tightly closed husks and no signs of mold or mildew.
- Choose ears with a slight give when pressed, indicating high moisture content.
- Opt for sweet corn varieties like Silver Queen, Golden Bantam, or Honey & Cream.
Preparing the Corn
Once you’ve selected your corn, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. Here’s what you need to do:
- Remove the husks and silk from the ears of corn.
- Rinse the corn under cold running water to remove any remaining silk or debris.
- Pat the corn dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Brush the corn with a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
Cooking the Corn on the Green Egg
Now that your corn is prepared, it’s time to cook it on the Green Egg. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Preheat the Green Egg to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the corn on the grill, rotating the ears to ensure even cooking.
- Close the lid and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the corn is lightly charred and tender.
- Rotate the corn every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you prefer a more intense smoky flavor, you can try cooking the corn on the Green Egg using the following alternative methods:
- Direct Heat Method: Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until lightly charred.
- Indirect Heat Method: Place the corn on a piece of aluminum foil or a grill mat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until tender.
Adding Flavor to Your Corn
While the natural sweetness of the corn is delicious on its own, you can also add flavor with a variety of toppings and seasonings. Here are a few ideas:
- Butter and Salt: Melt butter and brush it onto the corn, then sprinkle with salt.
- Herbs and Spices: Mix minced herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro with melted butter and brush onto the corn.
- Cheese and Chili Powder: Sprinkle grated cheese and chili powder onto the corn for a spicy kick.
Grilled Corn Recipes
If you’re looking for more inspiration, here are a few grilled corn recipes you can try:
- Grilled Corn with Garlic Butter: Mix minced garlic with melted butter and brush onto the corn.
- Grilled Corn with Cotija Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese onto the corn and cook until melted.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when cooking corn on the Green Egg:
- Use a Grill Mat: A grill mat can help prevent the corn from sticking to the grill grates.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook the corn until it’s lightly charred and tender, but not overcooked.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try different toppings and seasonings to find your favorite flavor combinations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking corn on the Green Egg:
- Not Preheating the Grill: Make sure the grill is preheated to the correct temperature before cooking the corn.
- Not Rotating the Corn: Rotate the corn every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Overcooking the Corn: Cook the corn until it’s lightly charred and tender, but not overcooked.
Conclusion
Cooking corn on the Green Egg is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this classic summer side dish. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can achieve perfectly cooked corn with a smoky, slightly charred flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, we hope this guide has inspired you to try cooking corn on the Green Egg.
What is the Green Egg and how does it work for cooking corn?
The Green Egg is a type of ceramic grill and smoker that allows for a wide range of cooking temperatures and techniques. It works by using a combination of charcoal and airflow to heat the interior of the grill, which can be adjusted to achieve the perfect temperature for cooking corn. The Green Egg’s ceramic walls also help to retain heat and moisture, resulting in a tender and flavorful ear of corn.
When cooking corn on the Green Egg, it’s essential to preheat the grill to the right temperature. For corn, you’ll want to aim for a medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. This will help to slightly char the outside of the corn while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Make sure to adjust the airflow vents to achieve the right temperature, and use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.
What type of corn is best for cooking on the Green Egg?
The best type of corn for cooking on the Green Egg is fresh, high-quality sweet corn. Look for ears with tightly closed husks and a slightly damp feel to the kernels. You can use either white or yellow corn, but yellow corn tends to be sweeter and more flavorful. Avoid using old or dried-out corn, as it can be tough and lacking in flavor.
When selecting corn, also consider the variety. Some popular varieties for grilling include Silver Queen, Golden Bantam, and Honey & Cream. These varieties tend to have a higher sugar content and a more tender texture, making them perfect for cooking on the Green Egg.
How do I prepare the corn for cooking on the Green Egg?
To prepare the corn for cooking on the Green Egg, start by removing the husks and silk from the ears. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk or debris. Pat the corn dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. You can also brush the corn with a little bit of oil or butter to add extra flavor.
Next, season the corn with your desired herbs and spices. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice for extra brightness. Make sure to season the corn evenly, but avoid over-seasoning, as this can overpower the natural flavor of the corn.
How long does it take to cook corn on the Green Egg?
The cooking time for corn on the Green Egg will depend on the temperature and the desired level of doneness. Generally, you’ll want to cook the corn for around 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to achieve even cooking. For a slightly charred exterior and a tender interior, cook the corn at 375-400°F for 10-12 minutes.
If you prefer a more well-done ear of corn, you can cook it for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just be careful not to overcook the corn, as this can make it tough and dry. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the corn, which should be around 160-170°F for optimal doneness.
Can I cook corn on the Green Egg with the husks on?
Yes, you can cook corn on the Green Egg with the husks on. In fact, this is a popular method for cooking corn, as it helps to retain moisture and flavor. To cook corn with the husks on, simply place the ears on the grill and close the lid. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to achieve even cooking.
When cooking corn with the husks on, make sure to soak the ears in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help to keep the husks from burning and add extra moisture to the corn. You can also brush the husks with a little bit of oil or butter to add extra flavor.
How do I know when the corn is done cooking on the Green Egg?
There are several ways to check if the corn is done cooking on the Green Egg. One method is to check the internal temperature of the corn, which should be around 160-170°F for optimal doneness. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, or simply check the corn for tenderness by inserting a fork or knife.
Another method is to check the color and texture of the corn. A perfectly cooked ear of corn should be slightly charred on the outside and tender on the inside. The kernels should be slightly softened and the corn should be slightly yielding to the touch. If the corn is still hard or crunchy, it may need a few more minutes of cooking time.
Can I add other ingredients to the corn while it’s cooking on the Green Egg?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the corn while it’s cooking on the Green Egg. Some popular options include butter, cheese, herbs, and spices. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice for extra brightness. When adding ingredients, make sure to brush them onto the corn during the last few minutes of cooking time.
This will help to melt the butter or cheese and infuse the corn with extra flavor. You can also add ingredients like garlic, chili powder, or smoked paprika to give the corn a smoky or spicy flavor. Just be careful not to overpower the natural flavor of the corn, and adjust the amount of ingredients according to your taste.