Boiled corn is a dish that is loved by many people because of its sweet and attractive taste. But boiling corn also takes a lot of time. Therefore, today, Trendbbq.com will guide you how to boil corn soft, juicy, super simple corn that anyone can do!
1. How To Buy Perfect Corn on the Cob
Here are some tips on how to buy perfect corn on the cob:
- Look for bright green husks. The husk should be tightly wrapped around the corn and be slightly damp. If the husk is dry or starting to yellow, the corn is not as fresh.
- Check the silk. The silk should be moist and golden brown. If the silk is black or slimy, the corn is not fresh.
- Feel the weight. A fresh corn cob should feel heavy for its size. A light cob is not as fresh.
- Peel back a small section of the husk. The kernels should be plump and milky. If the kernels are shriveled or dry, the corn is not fresh.
- Avoid corn with holes. Holes in the husk are a sign of insect infestation.
2. How To Boil Corn on the Cob
How to boil corn in a regular pot
Boil corn using normal amount of water
First, you need to separate some old skins on the outside of the corn. Note that you should keep the corn silk, because the corn silk will make the corn sweeter.
You put the corn in the pot and then fill it with water 2/3 of the left, do not fill the corn with water because it will make the corn mushy and not sweet. Then add a little salt to the pot and cook with high heat until the water boils, then reduce the temperature.
Boiling sweet corn will take an average of 20 minutes. With sticky corn, you should boil it longer to cook evenly. You can use a toothpick to check if the corn kernels are soft and then turn off the heat!
Boil corn using little water
With the method of boiling corn with less water, you should choose thick bottom pots to help the corn after boiling will cook evenly and avoid burning.
First, you peel the corn and keep only 2 to 3 skins close to the kernel. You can pick up or keep the corn silk, then line the corn husks and whiskers on the bottom of the pot and put the corn on top.
Next, put the corn in the pot, fill 1/2 of the corn with water and add a little salt, then cover and cook over high heat. When the pot of corn is boiling, reduce the heat and cook for another 15 minutes to cook the corn evenly!
How to boil corn with rice cooker
Currently, many people often boil corn with rice cookers to save time. But most home rice cookers usually have a small capacity, so you should consider the amount of corn each time to make sure the corn is cooked evenly.
Before boiling corn, you should peel off the outer skin and keep only about 2 inner layers. Then, turn the corn into the pot, fill 2/3 of the corn with water and add a little salt and then cover the lid.
With this method of boiling corn, the time to boil corn only takes about 15-20 minutes depending on the amount of boiled corn. When the corn is cooked, if not used immediately, turn on the switch to reheat mode to keep the corn hot for a long time.
How to boil corn in microwave
First, when you buy fresh corn, you should keep the outer shell, then put the corn on a plate and put it in the microwave.
Then, you adjust to the cooking mode for about 3 minutes at the highest temperature. Keeping the corn skin intact will help the corn to be airtight, cook quickly, sweet and not dry.
When the time is up, you take the corn out of the microwave, let it cool down, peel it off and you can use it right away!
3. How long to boil corn on the cob
When it comes to boiling corn on the cob, mastering the cooking time is crucial for achieving the desired level of tenderness. The cooking time typically ranges from 3 to 5 minutes, depending on how crunchy or tender you prefer your corn. Fresher corn tends to cook faster, so keep that in mind while boiling.
Another popular corn boiling method, particularly favored by the knowledgeable corn experts in Iowa, involves bringing salted water to a boil, adding the corn, covering the pot with a lid, and then removing it from the heat. Letting it sit for about 10 minutes will yield perfectly cooked corn. Both techniques result in delicious corn, so it ultimately depends on how quickly you’re eager to enjoy this tasty treat.
4. How To Tell When Corn on the Cob Is Cooked
There are several ways to determine if corn on the cob is properly cooked.
- Firstly, check the kernels’ texture. Gently press a kernel with your finger, and if it feels soft and gives slightly, the corn is likely cooked to perfection.
- Secondly, observe the color of the kernels. When the corn is fully cooked, the kernels will have a bright yellow color. If they still appear pale yellow, the corn may need more cooking time.
- Next, rely on your sense of smell. Well-cooked corn emits a sweet aroma, so if it doesn’t have that characteristic scent, it may not be fully cooked yet.
Another method is to use a paring knife. Insert the knife into a kernel and twist it slightly. If the kernel easily comes off the cob, the corn is done.
When in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and cook the corn for a few more minutes. Overcooked corn can become mushy and lose its flavor, so it’s essential to cook it just until it reaches the desired tenderness.
5. How To Store Boiled Corn on the Cob
To properly store boiled corn on the cob, follow these steps:
- Allow the boiled corn to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which could lead to mold.
- Wrap each corn cob individually in either plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps retain moisture and prevents the corn from drying out.
- Place the wrapped corn cobs in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This ensures the corn stays fresh and prevents it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
- Store the corn in the refrigerator, and consume it within 3 days for the best taste and quality.
Additional tips for storing boiled corn on the cob:
- Avoid storing the corn while still in the husk, as the husk may dry out and affect the corn’s sweetness.
- Be careful not to overcook the corn during boiling, as overcooked corn can become mushy and won’t store well.
- If you don’t plan to eat the corn within 3 days, freezing is an option. Simply wrap each cob in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag. Frozen corn on the cob can be stored for up to 6 months.
6. How To Reheat Cooked Corn on the Cob
If you have leftover corn cobs and want to reheat them, here are a few simple methods you can try:
Oven Method
- Individually wrap each corn cob in foil.
- Preheat the oven to 350℉ (175°C) and place the foil-wrapped cobs on a baking sheet.
- Reheat them in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes. If the cobs appear dry, you can add a few drops of water to the foil packets before sealing them.
Microwave Method
- Place the corn cobs on a microwave-safe plate.
- Drape a damp paper towel over the cobs to help retain moisture.
- Microwave the cobs for 10 to 20 seconds at a time until they reach your desired temperature.
Boiling Method
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Submerge the corn cobs in the boiling water and cook for a minute or two until they are heated through.
These methods should help you enjoy your leftover corn cobs as a tasty and warm treat. Happy reheating!
So Trendbbq.com has finished sharing with you the super simple and easy how to boil corn that anyone can do. Hope this information will help you pocket a few more useful ways when boiling corn to cook for the whole family to enjoy!
