Corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Boiling corn on the cob is a simple and straightforward method that results in tender, juicy kernels.
Here are some commonly asked questions about boiling corn on the cob, as well as some tips, tricks, and variations to help you get the most out of this delicious vegetable.
How long should you boil corn on the cob?
The general rule of thumb is to boil corn on the cob for 8-10 minutes. However, the cooking time can vary depending on the size and freshness of the corn.
- If the ears of corn are very fresh, they may only need to be boiled for 5-7 minutes.
- If the corn cobs are larger, they may need to be boiled for up to 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
- Corn on the cob
- Water
- Salt (optional)
- Butter (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by shucking the corn. Remove the husks and the silk, and discard.
- Fill a large pot with enough water to fully cover the corn. If desired, add salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the corn.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully add the corn to the pot. You can break the ears in half if necessary to fit them in the pot.
- Reduce the heat to medium-high and let the corn boil for 8-10 minutes or until the kernels are tender.
- Using tongs, carefully remove the corn from the pot and place it on a plate or cutting board to cool slightly.
- If desired, add butter and salt to taste. Serve perfect corn immediately while the corn is still warm.
And that’s it! Boiling corn on the cob is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this classic summer staple.
How to pick the best corn on the cob from the store?
Choosing the right corn on the cob from the store is important to ensure that you get the best flavor and texture. Here are some tips on how to pick corn on the cob from the store:
Look for fresh husks: Choose corn on the cob that has fresh, green husks that are tightly wrapped around the ear of corn. The husks should be free from blemishes or discoloration.
Check the tassels: The tassels or silk should be brown and slightly sticky to the touch. If the tassels are dry or black, it could be a sign that the corn is past its prime.
Check for plump kernels: Peel back a small section of the husk and look at the kernels. They should be plump, tightly packed, and in neat rows.
Check for moisture: Gently squeeze the corn to check for moisture. Fresh corn on the cob should be slightly moist to the touch.
Smell the corn: If possible, give the corn a sniff. Fresh corn on the cob should have a slightly sweet and earthy smell.
Avoid dented or damaged ears corn: Don’t choose corn on the cob that has dents or bruises, as it could be a sign that the corn is past its prime.
By following these tips, you can choose the freshest and best-tasting corn on the cob from the store.
Should you add salt to the water when boiling corn on the cob?
Adding salt to the water when boiling corn on the cob is optional. Some people believe that adding salt can enhance the flavor of the corn, while others believe that it can make the kernels tough.
If you do decide to add salt, use about 1-2 teaspoons per quart of water.
——> Converting Cups to Quarts and more with this chart.
Adding milk to water when boiling corn.
Some people add milk to the water when boiling corn on the cob because they believe it can make the corn taste sweeter and more tender. The milk can help to infuse the corn with a creamy flavor and texture.
However, there is no scientific evidence to support this method, and many people find that it doesn’t make a significant difference in the taste or texture of the corn.
Additionally, adding milk to the water can create a milky residue on the corn, which some people find unappealing.
Overall, adding milk to the water when boiling corn on the cob is a matter of personal preference, and there are many other ways to enhance the flavor of corn without using this method.
How do you know when the corn is done?
The easiest way to tell when the corn is done is to insert a fork into the thickest part of the cob. If it slides in easily, the corn is done.
The kernels should be tender and juicy but not mushy.
Can you boil frozen corn on the cob?
Yes, you can boil a frozen ear of corn. However, you will need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure that the corn is fully cooked. If you are using frozen corn, it is important to thaw it first before boiling it to ensure that it cooks evenly.
You can thaw frozen corn on the cob by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes before boiling.
Once the corn is thawed, you can proceed with boiling it on the cob as you would with fresh corn.
What are some other ways to cook corn on the cob?
In addition to boiling, there are several other ways to cook corn on the cob. Grilling, roasting, pressure cooking corn on the cob, and steaming are all popular methods.
You can also learn how to microwave corn on the cob here.
Grilling or roasting corn on the cob can give it a smoky flavor while steaming can help to retain more of its natural sweetness.
Best ways to remove Husks from Corn on the Cob.
There are several methods to remove the husks from raw corn. Here are a few of the best methods:
- Microwave method: Place the corn in the microwave, husks and all, and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes. The husks and silk will be much easier to remove after microwaving.
- Boiling method: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the corn, husks, and all. Boil for 3-4 minutes; remove the corn from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes before handling. The husks and silk should be easy to remove.
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the corn, husks, and all on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before handling. The husks and silk should be easy to remove.
- Manual method: Hold the corn upright on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to carefully cut off the end of the cob where the husk attaches. Then, grab the top of the husk and pull it down towards the end, removing it from the cob. Finally, use a stiff brush or paper towel to remove any remaining silk.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to use caution when handling raw corn, as the husks can be sharp, and the corn can be hot.
What are some tips for serving corn on the cob?
When serving corn on the cob, it is important to let it cool for a few minutes before handling it. This will make it easier to remove the husk and silk.
You can serve corn on the cob plain or add butter, salt, pepper, or other seasonings to taste.
Are there any variations on boiling corn on the cob?
One variation on boiling corn on the cob is to add herbs or spices to the water for extra flavor. Some popular choices include garlic, thyme, and bay leaves.
You can also add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the water to help keep the corn tender.
What is the best way to hold hot corn on the cob?
When holding a hot piece of corn on the cob, it is important to protect your hands from the heat. Here are some tips for holding a hot piece of corn on the cob:
- Use tongs: Using tongs is one of the easiest and most effective ways to hold a hot piece of corn on the cob. The tongs will allow you to grip the corn securely without burning your hands.
- Use a clean towel: You can also use a clean towel to hold the hot corn on the cob. Simply wrap the towel around the cob and hold it securely.
- Corn holders: Corn holders are small, fork-like utensils designed to be inserted into the ends of the corn to provide a handle. This can be a convenient and easy way to hold a hot piece of corn on the cob. Here are some super popular corn on the cob holders on Amazon.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to use caution when handling hot corn on the cob to avoid burning your hands or dropping the corn.
Best Methods to store leftover Corn on the Cob.
Leftover corn on the cob should be stored properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some of the best methods to store leftover corn on the cob:
Refrigerator: Store leftover corn on the cob in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Wrap each cob in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: If you have a lot of leftover corn on the cob, you can freeze it for later use. Simply wrap each cob in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Frozen corn on the cob can last for up to 8 months in the freezer.
Cut kernels: Another option is to cut the kernels off the cob and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. Cut kernels will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 6 months in the freezer. This is the corn stripping tool we use for this.
When reheating leftover corn on the cob, it is best to wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave it for 30-60 seconds or until it is heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat it on the grill or in the oven for a few minutes until it is hot.
Leftover corn kernel ideas——-> Try one of our summer side dish recipes featuring sweet corn like street corn casserole, old-fashioned creamed corn, mexican corn salad, or viral corn ribs.
Best Corn on the Cob Toppings
Here are some of the best toppings for corn on the cob:
- Butter: One of the most popular toppings for corn on the cob is butter. Spread a pat of butter over the hot corn and let it melt into the kernels.
- Salt and black pepper: Salt and pepper are simple but classic seasonings that can enhance the flavor of corn on the cob.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is a flavorful topping that can add a nutty, salty flavor to corn on the cob. This is commonly used on Street Corn on the Cob.
- Chili powder: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some chili powder over the corn for a spicy kick.
- Garlic: Garlic is a great way to flavor corn on the cob. You can mix fresh garlic with butter to create a delicious garlic butter topping.
- Lime juice: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the corn can add a tangy, citrusy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the corn.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives can add a fresh, herbaceous flavor to corn on the cob. (also try herbed butter)
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