Is there anything more emblematic of summer than the sight and smell of fresh corn on the cob roasting on the grill? Warm, buttery, with a hint of char – it’s the edible equivalent of a summer evening. As for me, preparing and cooking it has always felt like a special event. The act of shucking the husk, revealing the golden nuggets beneath, is like unwrapping a gift.
But how do you perfect this summertime staple? Can you really improve upon the taste of fresh, roasted corn? The answer, my friends, is a resounding yes. Think of it as adding the cherry on top of an already decadulous sundae. In this article, I’ll share my personal method of preparing corn on the cob that’s sure to make your next summer barbecue a hit.
The Perfect Fresh Corn
First things first, you need to start with the best quality corn. Freshness is key. When you head to the market, look for corn with bright green husks and moist silk. The kernels should be plump and come all the way to the ear’s tip. If the kernels are dry or shriveled, that’s a clear sign the corn is old.
Another trick to check for freshness is to pierce a kernel with your fingernail. If a milky liquid spills out, that’s a good sign of a fresh and tender corn. Remember, good ingredients are the foundation of a great dish.
Preparation Is Key
Preparing the corn is just as important as cooking it. When shucking, try to remove all the silk. A dry, soft brush can help with this. Make sure to leave the stem on; it’s going to be your natural handle when eating the corn.
Once your corn is shucked, it’s time for some flavor enhancement. I like to prepare a butter mixture with fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. This mix not only enhances the natural sweetness of the corn but also adds an extra level of deliciousness.
The Grilling Method
Now, let’s talk about cooking. I feel that grilling is the best way to prepare corn on the cob. The high heat helps the sugars in the corn caramelize, creating those beautiful, tasty grill marks. Plus, the smoky flavor from the grill is just irresistible.
Once the grill is hot, place the corn directly on the grill grates. Make sure to turn them every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. The corn should be ready in 15-20 minutes, with a beautiful golden-brown color.
Ingredients
- 4 fresh corn on the cob
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- A handful of fresh herbs (like parsley or chives)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high.
- Shuck the corn and remove the silk.
- Melt the butter and mix in the salt, pepper, and chopped herbs.
- Brush the corn with the butter mixture.
- Place the corn on the grill, turning every 5 minutes for even cooking.
- Grill for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the grill, let it cool for a moment, and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Tips for Corn On The Cob
Always choose fresh corn for the best results. To check the freshness, pierce a kernel with your fingernail. If a milky liquid spills out, the corn is fresh. Another tip is to leave the stem on the corn. It serves as a natural handle, making the corn easier to eat.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This recipe takes the natural sweetness of corn and enhances it with a flavorful butter herb mixture. The grilling method brings out the corn’s natural sugars, creating a caramelized, smoky delight. It’s simple, quick, and guarantees delicious corn on the cob every time.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 590mg
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 5g