5 ways to grill corn on the cob for the perfect crisp

Follow these 5 tips to ensure your fresh corn is grilled to perfection and bursting with juicy deliciousness. Elevate your grilling game and make your corn-on-the-cob the highlight of any barbecue gathering!

There are five ways to grill corn on the cob for the perfect crisp: Directly on the grill for charred kernels and a smoky flavor; in husks to retain moisture and steam the corn; Tender and flavorful for a savory bite wrapped in foil with butter and spices; Soak in water before burning to prevent burning and ensure even cooking; And rub it with a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Each method brings out the original sweetness of the corn and gives it a delicious crunchy texture.

1 – Choose Fresh, High-Quality Corn: 

Choosing the right ears is the first step to grilling amazing corn. In season, choose fresh corn with plump, well-formed kernels and bright green husks. Feeling the kernels through the husk will tell if they are fresh; They should be firm and evenly distributed. Avoid corns with discolored or dried husks, as they indicate aging. Buying corn from trusted suppliers or your neighborhood farmer’s market ensures that the product is of high quality and tastes delicious when grilled.

2 – Preparing the Corn:

It is important to thoroughly prepare the corn before grilling. Peel the outer husks first, taking care to keep them attached to the stem. Use a soft brush or your hands to remove the silk threads. Use cold water to rinse the corn to get rid of the remaining silk. You can soak the corn in cold water for about 15 minutes to add flavor and moisture. This keeps the kernels moist while grilling and prevents the husk from burning.

3 – Seasoning and Flavoring: 

Although the original sweetness of corn is delicious on its own, a little salt can bring it to a new level. Before grilling, brush the corn with melted butter or olive oil for a crispy, flavorful touch. Additionally, you can experiment with other flavors such as paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and herbs of your choice. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or squeeze fresh lemon juice over the corn. Allow the corn to marinate in the spices for at least fifteen minutes to allow the flavors to come together.

4 – Grilling Techniques: 

For best results, grilling corn requires proper technique. Set grill temperature to medium-high. Arrange corn kernels on grill rack over direct heat. For a more rustic look, you can first fold the husks back and tie them with a piece of kitchen twine. To ensure that the corn cooks evenly, close the grill cover and cook for ten to fifteen minutes, turning it frequently. The kernels will become fragile and the husks will turn slightly brown. You can grill the corn for a few more minutes if you want a more pronounced char. Do not forget to check the corn, to avoid any burns. Before serving, remove the grilled corn from the grill and let cool for a few minutes.

5 – Flavorful Accompaniments:

While grilled corn is delicious on its own, it tastes even better when paired with other foods. The traditional method is to coat the kernels in melted butter and season them with salt and pepper. Using a flavored butter, such as garlic or herb-infused butter, will also help level things out. Add some chipotle mayo or chili flakes to the corn to give it a fiery twist. As an alternative, you can make Mexican-inspired elote by drizzling corn with mayonnaise, cotija cheese crumbles, and fresh cilantro and chili powder (see picture below).

Anyone can become an expert at grilling corn on the cob with a few basic steps. Achieving corn perfection requires careful thought at every step, from selecting the freshest corn to using the right seasonings and grilling techniques. The rewards are worth the effort!

READ | Corn Succotash with Edamame

READ ALSO | A corn shucking trick that makes silking easier

---