Introduction
Grilled corn is one of the summer’s most iconic dishes, loved for its smoky, sweet, and crunchy flavors. But to get that perfect texture and flavor, grilling corn takes a little know-how and finesse. In this article, we will explore the secrets to grilling corn and achieving the desired taste and texture.
Choose the Best Corn for Grilling
The foundation of an excellent grilled corn is selecting the right corn. Look for ears that are fresh and sweet, with plump, bright kernels. Here are some tips for identifying the freshest corn:
- Choose corn with husks that look green, tight, and wrapped tightly around the ear.
- Avoid corn with brown tassels that are dry or slimy, a sign of old age.
- Check the kernels, which should be plump and juicy when squeezed, and free of any yellowing or browning.
There are several types of corn to choose from, including sweet corn, super-sweet corn, and peaches-and-cream corn. All work well for grilling. One way to prepare corn for grilling is to remove the husks, which exposes the kernels for more direct grilling. However, you can also leave the husks on to protect the kernels from burning. To do this, simply pull the husk back and remove the silk from the ear. Then, soak the corn in water for 10-15 minutes before grilling.
The Perfect Timing for Grilling Corn
Timing is everything when grilling corn to perfection. The key is to cook the corn long enough to be tender and juicy, but not so long that it becomes mushy or burnt. Here are some tips for timing the grilling process:
- Grill sweet corn for 10-12 minutes on medium-high heat or until kernels are tender and lightly charred. Super-sweet corn may require longer cooking times, closer to 15-18 minutes.
- Check the temperature of the corn with a thermometer or temperature probe. The ideal temperature for cooked corn is between 170-180°F.
- Using indirect grilling can help create more even cook times and prevent burnt or raw kernels.
Mastering the Art of Grilling Uniform Corn
Grilling corn evenly can be a challenge, but there are several techniques that can help:
- Rotate the ears of corn on the grill regularly for even grilling and coloring.
- Use olive oil or butter to help keep the kernels moisturized and evenly cooked.
- To prevent undercooked or burnt kernels, soak the corn in cold water for 30 minutes before you grill it.
- Vary your grilling methods, such as direct versus indirect, to avoid overcooking or burning the corn.
Creative Seasoning and Topping Ideas for Grilled Corn
Grilled corn is excellent on its own, but infusing a variety of flavors and toppings can take it to an entirely new level. Here are some topping and seasoning ideas to try:
- Sprinkle corn with Cajun seasoning, chili powder, or paprika for a spicy kick.
- Add fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley or rosemary to give grilled corn a fresh flavor.
- Brush corn with melted butter or olive oil, or sprinkle it with cheese, lime juice or salt.
- Toss grilled corn with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and cilantro for a flavorful corn salsa.
- Drizzle corn with a flavorful marinade, like a honey mustard or balsamic glaze.
The Best Methods for Preparing Corn for the Grill
Preparation is a critical aspect of grilling corn. Here are some tips for preparation techniques that can help:
- Soak corn in cold water or milk for 30 minutes to help the corn stay moist and juicy while grilling.
- Wrap corn in foil, husks or parchment paper to help lock in flavors and prevent burning.
- Remove the kernels from the cob, and serve as a grilled side dish or add it to salads, chowders, and casseroles.
The Best Grilling Accessories to Master Corn
Specific grilling accessories can help to make grilling corn easier and safer. Here are some popular accessories:
- Grilling tongs for safely placing corn on the grill and taking it off when finished.
- Grill basket for holding corn in place while grilling, helping to prevent it from burning or falling through the grates.
- Basting brush for brushing olive oil, butter, or marinades onto corn kernels to enhance the flavors.
- A grill rack that elevates ears of corn to be evenly cooked, and easier to turn.
Pairing Grilled Corn with Delicious BBQ and Summery Foods
Grilling season is all about creating a fantastic feast of summer flavors. Here are some ideas for pairing your grilled corn with other summery dishes:
- Grilled meats like chicken or steak that are marinated in a bold BBQ sauce.
- Colorful summer salads that are packed with fresh garden flavors, like caprese salad or a Mexican street corn salad.
- Luscious fruit cocktails or mocktails such as watermelon or lemonade can balance the smoky flavor of grilled corn.
- Crunchy grilled veggies such as zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus nicely complement grilled corn.
Conclusion
Grilled corn is an iconic part of summer, and it deserves to be grilled to perfection. By following our steps for selecting the best corn, timing the grilling process, infusing creative flavors and pairings, and using a variety of preparation techniques and accessories, you will be able to produce perfect grilled corn for any occasion.
