One of the most favorite snacks of kids and adults is corn on the cob. Served with butter or salt, this snack is both a challenge and a delight to eat. Cooking corn on the cob is also very easy – so easy that other people tend to overcook it. A sure sign of an overcooked corn on the cob is gummy consistency that leaves the corn sticking to your teeth. A sticky situation with corn can make the whole eating experience less enjoyable. To avoid having a gummy mess, you must learn the proper way to cook corn.
It also helps if you know how to properly select fresh corn to cook. When buying, look closely at the corn’s ears and make sure that they feel full and plumb in your hand. The husks should be in a good green color and the silk strands sticking out on top golden pale. Always pick out the ones with the most silk strands; the more silk strands, the more kernels of corn.
The ideal time to cook fresh corn is immediately after it is bought. Here are some tips for cooking corn on the cob for the most delicious corn you’ve ever tasted.
Boiling the Corn on the Cob
*First, find a boiling pot large enough to hold the corn. Pour water and let it boil to heat for several minutes.
*Then, take your corn on the cob and shuck it. Start by peeling the husk from the top and remove all the thin silky hairs. You can use a damp cloth or a vegetable brush to remove stubborn hairs. Remove the stalk at the bottom.
*Once the water is boiling, throw in the corn and add a pinch of sugar to keep the corn sweet and tender. Cover the pot and let it boil in a few minutes.
*Use a fork to test the softness of the corn. Once its soft enough, which takes about 5-10 minutes, the corn is done.
Cooking Fresh Corn in the Microwave
*If you like your corn on the cob plain, you can directly microwave it in the husk. Place two ears in the microwave evenly separated from the other for even exposure.
*Using high heat, microwave the corn for about three to five minutes.
*Turn the cobs for even cooking and heat again for another three to five minutes.
*Let it stand for about one minute before peeling off the husks and the strands. Apply the butter or salt to taste.
Grilling Corn on the Cob
*Another way of cooking corn on the cob is through grilling. First, remove the husks and the silk strands and break off the stalk. Rinse the cobs.
*Take an aluminum foil and coat it with butter or salt. Seasonings will give the corn more flavor.
*Wrap the corn in the foil and place the cobs over medium coals.
*Turn the cobs over frequently for evenly cooking.
*Wait for six to 12 minutes. Once the kernels turn golden brown, your corn in a cob is ready.
