Introduction
Cooking corn on the grill can be a daunting task, especially for those who have not done it before. However, grilling corn on the cob is one of the easiest, tastiest, and healthiest ways to enjoy this summer vegetable. This article aims to provide helpful tips, recipes, and serving ideas to make your grilled corn on the cob stand out at your next BBQ or family dinner.
How to Grill Corn Perfectly for the First Time
Before you begin grilling your corn on the cob, there are a few crucial preparation steps to follow. First, remove the husks and silk from the corn and brush the ears of corn with olive oil. Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or 400°F. Place the corn on the grill and rotate every few minutes until the corn is charred, slightly browned, and tender. The grilling process usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes depending on the thickness of the corn cobs.
5 Tips to Make Your Grilled Corn Stand Out
Grilled corn on the cob is delicious on its own, but you can make it even more flavorful and exciting by using these five tips. First, season the corn with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices before grilling. Second, brush the corn with melted butter or oil while grilling for extra flavor. Third, add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil to the corn after grilling. Fourth, try rubbing the corn with garlic or lime for a tangy and zesty taste. Lastly, wrap the corn with bacon or prosciutto before grilling for an indulgent twist.
Chili Lime Grilled Corn on the Cob Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and will add some Mexican flair to your grilled corn on the cob. You will need six ears of corn, two tablespoons of olive oil, one tablespoon of chili powder, one teaspoon of cumin, one teaspoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of salt, and the juice of two limes. To prepare, mix all the spices and lime juice in a small bowl. Brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle the spice mix over the corn. Grill the corn on medium-high heat, rotating every few minutes and basting with oil or butter until charred and cooked through, about 10 to 12 minutes. Serve hot with more lime juice and chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Grill Corn on the Cob
If you want a more detailed guide on how to grill corn on the cob, here are the steps you need to follow. First, prepare the corn by removing the husks and silk. Rinse the corn in cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Brush the corn with a bit of olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with salt, pepper, or any other desired spices. Place the corn on the grill, turning every few minutes and brushing with more oil or butter until tender and charred, around 10 to 15 minutes. When you feel the corn is soft, remove from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can top your corn with more butter, spices, herbs, or cheese if desired.
3 Different Flavored Butter Recipes for Grilled Corn
Flavored butter is an excellent addition to grilled corn on the cob, and here are three recipes you can try. For Garlic Herb Butter, you will need one stick of unsalted butter, four cloves of garlic, one tablespoon of chopped parsley, one tablespoon of chopped chives, and one teaspoon of lemon zest. Mix all the ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth and airy. For Spicy Chipotle Butter, you will need one stick of unsalted butter, two tablespoons of chipotle in adobo sauce, one tablespoon of paprika, and one teaspoon of honey. Mix all the ingredients until well blended. For Bacon and Chive Butter, you will need one stick of unsalted butter, six strips of cooked bacon, two tablespoons of chopped chives, and one teaspoon of black pepper. Mix all the ingredients and chill the butter in the fridge for 15 minutes. Serve the flavored butter on a plate and let your guests spread it on their corn on the cob.
How Long to Grill Corn on the Cob for the Perfect Charred Taste
The duration for grilling corn on the cob can vary depending on the heat of the grill and the thickness of the corn ears. However, as a general rule, you can grill the corn for around 10 to 15 minutes, turning frequently until tender and charred. Overcooking can make the corn tough and chewy, while undercooking can leave it raw and unappetizing. You can experiment with different grilling times and temperatures to find the sweet spot for your taste. If you want a charred taste, grill the corn for longer, but if you prefer a sweeter taste, grill it for a shorter period.
4 Inventive Ways to Serve Grilled Corn on the Cob at Your Next BBQ
Grilled corn on the cob is versatile and can be served in many creative ways. Here are four ideas to inspire you. First, cut the corn off the cob and mix it with salsa, guacamole, and chips for a corn dip. Second, use the corn in a summer salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a lemon vinaigrette. Third, top the corn with crumbled feta cheese, chili flakes, and lime for a Greek twist. Fourth, make a corn salsa with grilled onions, red bell peppers, and jalapeños for a spicy and chunky dip. You can also wrap the corn in aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to serve, reheat the corn on the grill, microwave, or oven and enjoy it.
Conclusion
Cooking corn on the grill may seem daunting, but with the tips, recipes, and serving ideas provided in this article, you can become a pro at it. Remember to prepare the corn properly, season it generously, and experiment with different flavors and toppings. Grilled corn on the cob is a staple summer dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Don’t be afraid to share your experience and feedback in the comments section below.