How to Grill Corn on the Cob
Summer is a time for barbecues, and to complement all the delicious steak, meat and burgers you’re grilling, you have to get grilled veggies, too. One of the most delicious and easy to prepare choices is corn on the cob. Grilling it is easy, and here’s what you should do.
What You’ll Need:
Corn on the cob, still wrapped in their husks
Grill
Tongs
Butter and salt
Seasonings (optional)
Pot
Water
Charcoal
Matches or lighter
Gas
Procedure:
Go to the supermarket and buy some corn on the cob. Make sure you choose fresh corn pieces, with a vibrant green husk that covers the ear tightly. To make sure you’re getting the good ones, peel back the husk lightly from the tip of the ear. The kernels must be plump and smooth, and not sunken and withered. The corn must be fresh, not dry.
grilled corn
Pull back the husks properly, but don’t remove them from the stalk. You’ll need at least two husk layers. When you see the silk, or the white hairy, string-like mess, remove as much as you can, without removing the husk. Too much silk will burn on the grill and might add a bit of unpleasant taste to the corn.
Fold the husks over the corn.
You now have to soak your corn on the cob. This keeps it from burning and ensures that it stays moist and delicious throughout the grilling process. Wetting the husks also provide more smoke when grilled, meaning more flavor for the corn. Get a large pot and fill it with water. Immerse the corn in it, weighing it down using a bowl.
Allow the corn to soak for 10 to 20 minutes. While it’s soaking, you now have time to prepare your grill. Let the fire die down, and bring the heat down to medium-high. If you have a charcoal grill, the coals shouldn’t be flaming anymore.
Take the corn out of the water, then shake it to remove the excess liquid. Your corn must be wet, but not dripping. Put the corn on the grill, then put the lid over the grill.
Remember to turn the corn every few minutes. Otherwise, the corn will be browned and charred on one side, while uncooked on another. Your corn should be cooked and browned evenly. Let the corn cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until the husk is charred and almost black.
Remove the corn from the grill using tongs. The husks will be very hot. Remove the husks and the remaining silk carefully. Season with butter, salt and other seasonings. Your golden grilled corn ion the cob is ready!
Some Tips:
Seasoning the corn before grilling it adds extra flavor. Use butter, paprika, basil or lemon juice. A drizzle of olive oil is also wonderful.
The husks should be covering the corn ears loosely, but appropriately. If they’re flopping open, secure them by wrapping them with string.
Be careful when handling hot corn on the cob.
Grilling corn on the cob is a delicious way to celebrate summer. Get your barbecue grill and meat ready, and prepare this delightful side dish.