Cooking husked corn in the microwave is a quick and easy way to prepare this delicious summer side dish. With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked corn on the cob in just a few minutes. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook husked corn in the microwave, including tips and tricks for getting the best results.
Why Cook Husked Corn in the Microwave?
Cooking husked corn in the microwave is a great way to prepare this vegetable because it’s fast, easy, and convenient. Here are just a few reasons why you might want to try cooking husked corn in the microwave:
- Quick cooking time: Cooking husked corn in the microwave is much faster than boiling or grilling it. You can have perfectly cooked corn on the cob in just 2-3 minutes.
- Easy to prepare: Cooking husked corn in the microwave requires minimal preparation. Simply place the corn in the microwave, cook, and serve.
- Retains nutrients: Cooking husked corn in the microwave helps retain its nutrients, including vitamin C and fiber.
- No mess: Cooking husked corn in the microwave is a mess-free way to prepare this vegetable. You don’t have to worry about boiling water or cleaning up a grill.
How to Cook Husked Corn in the Microwave
Cooking husked corn in the microwave is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1-2 ears of husked corn
- 1 tablespoon of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of butter or oil (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Before cooking the corn, make sure to remove any loose husks or silk. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
Step 2: Place the Corn in the Microwave
Place the corn in the microwave, either on a microwave-safe plate or in a microwave-safe dish. You can cook one or two ears of corn at a time, depending on the size of your microwave.
Step 3: Add Water and Seasonings
Add 1 tablespoon of water to the microwave-safe dish or plate. You can also add salt, pepper, and butter or oil to taste.
Step 4: Cook the Corn
Cook the corn on high for 2-3 minutes, depending on the size of the ears and your personal preference for doneness. Here’s a general guideline for cooking times:
| Cooking Time | Size of Corn |
| — | — |
| 2 minutes | Small ears of corn |
| 2.5 minutes | Medium ears of corn |
| 3 minutes | Large ears of corn |
Step 5: Check for Doneness
After cooking the corn, check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the kernel. If it slides in easily, the corn is cooked. If not, cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 6: Serve
Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the microwave and serve hot. You can slather with butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, or add your favorite seasonings.
Tips and Tricks for Cooking Husked Corn in the Microwave
Here are a few tips and tricks for cooking husked corn in the microwave:
- Use the right size microwave-safe dish: Make sure to use a microwave-safe dish that’s large enough to hold the corn, but not so large that it cooks unevenly.
- Don’t overcook the corn: Cooking the corn for too long can make it tough and dry. Check for doneness frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Use a microwave with a turntable: If you have a microwave with a turntable, use it to cook the corn. This will help the corn cook evenly and prevent hot spots.
- Don’t cook too much corn at once: Cooking too much corn at once can lead to uneven cooking and a mess. Cook one or two ears of corn at a time for best results.
Variations on Cooking Husked Corn in the Microwave
Here are a few variations on cooking husked corn in the microwave:
- Grilled corn: To give your corn a grilled flavor, cook it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, then finish it off on the grill for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Herbed corn: To add some extra flavor to your corn, sprinkle it with chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or dill before cooking.
- Spicy corn: To add some heat to your corn, sprinkle it with chili powder or cayenne pepper before cooking.
Conclusion
Cooking husked corn in the microwave is a quick and easy way to prepare this delicious summer side dish. With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked corn on the cob in just a few minutes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a tasty snack, cooking husked corn in the microwave is a great option. So next time you’re in the mood for corn on the cob, give cooking husked corn in the microwave a try!
What are the benefits of cooking husked corn in the microwave?
Cooking husked corn in the microwave is a convenient and time-saving method that helps retain the nutrients and flavor of the corn. Unlike boiling, microwaving does not require a large amount of water, which can lead to a loss of nutrients. Additionally, microwaving is a quick process that can have your corn ready in just a few minutes.
This method is also ideal for those who want to cook a small quantity of corn. You can easily cook one or two ears of corn in the microwave, making it perfect for a single serving or a small family. Furthermore, microwaving husked corn is a mess-free process, as the husk and silk are contained within the microwave-safe dish.
How do I choose the right type of corn for microwaving?
When choosing corn for microwaving, look for ears with a slightly soft and moist husk. Avoid ears with dry or brittle husks, as they may not cook evenly. You can also choose ears with a mix of yellow and white kernels, as they tend to be sweeter and more tender.
It’s also essential to select ears with no visible signs of mold or pests. Gently squeeze the ear to ensure the kernels are plump and not soft or mushy. Fresh corn is ideal for microwaving, so try to use it within a day or two of purchase.
How do I prepare the corn for microwaving?
To prepare the corn for microwaving, start by rinsing the ears under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently pat the ears dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. You can also trim the ends of the ears to remove any loose or damaged kernels.
Next, place the ears in a microwave-safe dish, leaving some space between each ear to allow for even cooking. You can cook one or multiple ears at a time, depending on your needs. Make sure the dish is large enough to hold the ears comfortably, with the husks facing upwards.
How long do I cook the corn in the microwave?
The cooking time for husked corn in the microwave will depend on the number of ears and their size. As a general guideline, cook one ear of corn on high for 2-3 minutes, and two ears for 4-5 minutes. You can check for doneness by carefully removing the ear from the microwave and gently squeezing it. If the kernels are tender and slightly soft, it’s cooked.
If you prefer your corn more tender, you can cook it for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute. However, be careful not to overcook, as this can make the corn dry and tough. It’s always better to err on the side of undercooking, as you can always cook it for a bit longer if needed.
Can I add any seasonings or butter to the corn while it’s cooking?
Yes, you can add seasonings or butter to the corn while it’s cooking in the microwave. Simply place a pat of butter or a sprinkle of salt, pepper, or herbs on top of the ear before cooking. You can also wrap the ear in a damp paper towel and cook it for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute to melt the butter and infuse the flavors.
However, be careful not to add too much liquid, as this can make the corn steam instead of cook evenly. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice for extra flavor. Experiment with different seasonings and herbs to find your favorite flavor combinations.
Is it safe to cook husked corn in the microwave?
Yes, it is safe to cook husked corn in the microwave, as long as you follow the proper cooking times and guidelines. The microwave will not penetrate the husk, so the kernels will cook evenly and safely. However, it’s essential to use a microwave-safe dish and to avoid overheating the corn, which can cause it to burst or create a mess.
Additionally, be careful when removing the ear from the microwave, as it may be hot and steamy. Use oven mitts or a towel to handle the ear, and let it cool for a minute or two before serving. You can also check the ear for any signs of burning or charring, which can be a sign of overheating.
How do I serve cooked husked corn?
Cooked husked corn can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences. You can simply peel back the husk and serve the corn on the cob, slathered with butter, salt, and pepper. You can also remove the kernels from the cob and serve them as a side dish, tossed with herbs and seasonings.
Additionally, you can use cooked husked corn in salads, soups, or as a topping for tacos or grilled meats. You can also freeze the cooked kernels for later use in soups, stews, or casseroles. Experiment with different recipes and flavor combinations to find your favorite ways to enjoy cooked husked corn.