Elevate your bbq: learn the art of cooking sweet corn on the grill
What To Know
- Whether you prefer it charred, tender, or with a hint of smokiness, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to cook sweet corn on the BBQ like a pro.
- Grilled corn is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to various meals.
- Wrap the corn in bacon slices and grill until the bacon is crispy and the corn is tender.
Summertime is synonymous with the sweet and juicy goodness of corn on the cob. Grilling corn on the barbecue is an art form that elevates this beloved vegetable to new heights. Whether you prefer it charred, tender, or with a hint of smokiness, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to cook sweet corn on the BBQ like a pro.
Picking the Perfect Corn
The key to grilling exceptional corn lies in selecting the freshest and highest quality ears. Look for corn that has tightly packed kernels, a bright green husk, and a silky tassel. Avoid corn with brown or discolored husks, as these indicate age or damage.
Prepping the Corn
To prepare the corn for grilling, remove the husks and silk. Pull back the husk from the top, exposing the silk. Use your fingers to remove the silk, then pull back the husk and remove it completely. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk or debris.
Choosing the Grilling Method
There are two main methods for grilling corn: in the husk or without the husk.
- Grilling in the husk: This method retains moisture and results in tender, juicy corn. Leave the husks on, remove the silk, and soak the corn in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the husks from burning.
- Grilling without the husk: This method allows for more direct heat and charring. Remove the husks and silk before grilling.
Grilling Techniques
Grilling in the Husk:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F).
2. Place the corn on the grill grates and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the kernels. If it inserts easily, the corn is done.
Grilling Without the Husk:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F).
2. Brush the corn with olive oil or melted butter.
3. Place the corn on the grill grates and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
4. Grill until the kernels are slightly charred and tender.
Seasoning Your Corn
Once the corn is grilled, it’s time to season it to perfection. Here are some popular options:
- Butter and salt: The classic combination that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
- Lemon juice and herbs: A refreshing twist that adds a bright and herbaceous flavor.
- Garlic and Parmesan: A savory and umami-rich topping that adds depth to the corn.
- Chili powder and lime: A spicy and tangy blend that gives the corn a Mexican flair.
- Sriracha and honey: A sweet and spicy combination that brings a bit of heat to the party.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Corn
- Use high-quality corn for the best flavor.
- Grill the corn over direct heat for a smoky flavor.
- Cook the corn until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
- Let the corn rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite combination.
The Delights of Grilled Corn
Grilled corn is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to various meals. Here are some ideas:
- Serve it as a summery appetizer with melted butter and salt.
- Add it to salads for a pop of sweetness and crunch.
- Grill it alongside other vegetables for a colorful and flavorful barbecue feast.
- Use it to make corn on the cob salsa or cornbread.
Beyond Grilled Corn
Once you’ve mastered the basics of grilling corn, you can explore variations to enhance its flavor even further. Try these creative ideas:
- Bacon-wrapped corn: Wrap the corn in bacon slices and grill until the bacon is crispy and the corn is tender.
- Grilled corn with cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the corn before grilling.
- Grilled corn with vegetables: Grill corn alongside bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a flavorful medley.
- Elote: This Mexican-style corn is grilled and then slathered with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and chili powder.
The Bottom Line: The Art of Grilled Corn
Grilling corn on the barbecue is a simple yet rewarding culinary experience. By following these tips and techniques, you can create perfectly grilled corn that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you prefer it grilled in the husk or without, seasoned with classic butter and salt or a creative blend of flavors, grilled corn is a summer staple that deserves a place at every barbecue.
Top Questions Asked
- How can I prevent the corn from burning?
- Soak the corn in cold water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This helps the husks retain moisture and prevents them from burning.
- Keep the grill at a medium-high heat (400-450°F) and cook the corn for the recommended time.
- Turn the corn occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent charring.
- How do I know when the corn is done grilling?
- Insert a toothpick into the kernels. If it inserts easily, the corn is done.
- The kernels should be slightly charred and tender.
- The husks should be slightly browned and easily peel away from the corn.
- Can I grill corn without a barbecue?
- Yes, you can grill corn in a grill pan on the stovetop or in the oven. Preheat the grill pan or oven to medium-high heat and cook the corn according to the same instructions as grilling on a barbecue.