The Summertime Art of Grilling Corn on the cob: Top Questions Answered
Grilling corn on the cob is a quintessential summer activity that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert griller, this guide answers the most frequently asked questions about grilled corn on the cob, ensuring you achieve perfect results every time.
Grilled Corn on the cob
Should I Soak Corn Before Grilling?
Soaking corn before grilling isn’t necessary, but it can prevent the husks from burning and add extra moisture. This technique is especially useful for grilling over high heat, as it allows the corn to steam within the husks, keeping it juicy and flavorful. Corn does not need a long time on the grill, so feel free to soak the husks but its not necessary.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
How Long Should I Preheat My Grill?
Preheat your grill for about 5 to 7 minutes. Bring the internal temperature of the grill up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that the grill pre heated and ready to go, which helps with even cooking.
Should I Grill Corn on the Cob With the Husks On or Off?
Grilling corn with husks on helps retain moisture and steams the corn, making it tender. However, grilling without husks gives the kernels a delightful char. A great example of grilling corn without husks to add some char is when you are making corn salsa. A little char goes a long way with flavor.
Grilled Corn, Tomatillos, Serrano Pepper, and Green Onions on grill grates with Sear Marks
How Do I Prevent Corn from Burning on the Grill?
Like any vegetable you don’t want to burn the corn. Cook corn over medium direct heat. If the corn starts charring too quickly, move it to indirect heat to finish cooking. With a good pair of tongs, turn the corn every few minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent scorching.
Tongs holding grilled corn
How Long Does It Take to Grill Corn on the Cob?
Typically, it takes about 10 minutes with the lid closed to grill corn, turning every 5 minutes. The timing can vary depending on the grill’s temperature and whether the corn is husked or not. People always seem to overcook corn. A few minutes is all that is needed to bring out the natural sweetness and soften the kernels.
If you want more char on the corn on the cob then you will need to grill longer. If you leave the husks on, 15 to 20 minutes should give you some nice sear marks on the corn.
How Can I Tell If Corn Is Done Grilling?
Knowing when your grilled corn on the cob is done is key to achieving perfect results. The kernels will turn a brighter, more vibrant yellow when fully cooked. Additionally, the kernels should be tender and juicy when pierced with a fork. The husks, if left on, will be charred on the outside. Another indicator is a slight caramelization on the corn’s surface.
Corn on the cob grilling
Can you grill corn on the cob on foil?
Yes, you can grill corn on the cob on foil on a grill. Sometimes you might be dealing with a not so clean grill and using foil makes sense. Remove the husks from the corn and wrap each ear of corn with foil. Add any seasonings and then finish wrapping the corn on the cob completely. Throw on the grill for ten minutes and then remove.
How Do I Pick the Best Corn for Grilling?
To pick the best corn for grilled corn on the cob, look for ears with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the kernels. The husks should look fresh and not wilting or dry. Gently squeeze the corn to ensure the kernels feel plump and firm through the husk. Look at the end with the silk. Do the kernels come up to the top of the cob and look plump? Avoid corn brown husks or brownish silk, as this indicates the corn is old and likely less fresh. For the best results, choose the freshest ears you can find, ideally from a local farmers market, to ensure your grilled corn on the cob is sweet and juicy.
Fresh Corn in a bin at a farmers market
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilling corn on the cob is a quintessential summer activity that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn. It's the perfect vegetable for grilling while you sit on the deck enjoying the summer sunshine.
Ingredients
- 6 ears of white or yellow corn.
- Butter and white bread
- Salt
Instructions
Preheat your grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place the corn on the cob including the husks on the grill.
Close the lid and let grill for 5 minutes.
Rotate the cobs and grill with the lid down for 5 more minutes.
Remove from the grill and let sit for 5 minutes.
Remove husks and silk.
Serve with butter and salt.
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