The Complete Guide to Microwave Corn on the Cob

The Complete Guide to Microwave Corn on the Cob

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to prepare corn on the cob, then look no further than your trusty microwave. With just a few minutes of cook time, you can enjoy fresh, hot corn without the hassle of boiling water. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about how to microwave corn on the cob, including different recipes, tips for cooking frozen corn, and how to avoid getting pesky silk stuck in your teeth.

Section 1: Quick and Easy: Microwave Corn on the Cob in 5 Minutes!

First things first, let’s go over the process for cooking corn on the cob in the microwave. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Microwave-safe dish or bowl
• Water
• Corn on the cob

Start by placing the corn in a microwave-safe dish or bowl, and add 2 tablespoons of water for every ear of corn. Cover the dish with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Then, microwave on high for 3-4 minutes for one ear of corn, or 5-6 minutes for two ears. When the time is up, carefully remove the dish from the microwave using oven mitts or a kitchen towel. Use tongs or a fork to remove the corn from the dish, and serve while hot.

Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of your corn, so be sure to adjust accordingly. You can also add more water if you’re microwaving multiple ears of corn. If you prefer softer kernels, you can also let the corn sit in the covered dish for a few minutes after microwaving to allow it to steam.

Section 2: 5 Microwave Corn on the Cob Recipes to Try Today

While plain corn on the cob is tasty enough on its own, why not mix things up with some flavorful additions? Here are five different recipe ideas for adding flavor to your microwave corn:

1. Mexican-Style: Brush melted butter over the cooked corn, then sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
2. Parmesan Garlic: Mix together melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Brush over the corn and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
3. BBQ: Brush the cooked corn with your favorite BBQ sauce, then sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
4. Herbed Butter: Mix together softened butter, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and chives), and a pinch of salt. Spread over the cooked corn.
5. Sweet and Spicy: Mix together honey and Sriracha to taste, then brush over the cooked corn. Top with chopped scallions and sesame seeds.

Simply follow the basic cooking instructions above, then add these tasty toppings to create a delicious and unique corn on the cob experience!

Section 3: Cooking Corn on the Cob: A Guide to Microwave vs. Boiling

While microwaving corn on the cob is a quick and easy alternative to boiling it on the stove, there are both pros and cons to each method. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to microwave or boil your corn:

• Convenience: Microwaving is generally quicker and requires less equipment than boiling, which can be a big plus if you’re short on time or stove space.
• Texture: Boiling corn on the cob can help to ensure that it’s evenly cooked and has a tender, juicy texture.
• Taste: Some people argue that boiling corn on the cob brings out more of the vegetable’s natural sweetness, while others prefer the slightly nutty flavor that comes from microwaving it.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to microwave or boil your corn on the cob comes down to personal preference and your specific cooking situation. Experiment with both methods to see which works best for you!

Section 4: How to Best Microwave Frozen Corn on the Cob

If you don’t have access to fresh corn on the cob, don’t worry – you can still enjoy this summertime favorite by using frozen corn instead! Here’s how to properly microwave frozen corn on the cob:

• Thaw the frozen corn by letting it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
• Follow the instructions for microwaving fresh corn on the cob, but add an extra 1-2 minutes of cooking time to ensure that the corn is fully heated through.
• To add flavor, brush the cooked corn with melted butter or olive oil, and sprinkle with your favorite seasoning.

Keep in mind that the texture of frozen corn may be slightly different than fresh corn, so don’t be surprised if it’s a bit softer or less crisp. However, it’s still a great option for when fresh corn isn’t available!

Section 5: Kitchen Hacks: How to Microwave Corn Without Silk

One of the most frustrating parts of eating corn on the cob can be getting the silk caught in your teeth! Luckily, there are a few tricks you can use to remove the silk before microwaving. Here are a few methods to try:

• Use a brush: Before microwaving, use a clean vegetable brush to scrub the corn under running water. This should help to remove most of the silk.
• Wet paper towel: Wrap the corn in a wet paper towel, then microwave as usual. When the corn is done cooking, use the paper towel to gently wipe away any remaining silk.
• Hold with a towel: After microwaving, use a towel or oven mitt to hold the hot corn, then use a sharp knife to cut off the end where the silk is exposed. The rest of the silk should come off easily.

With these tricks, you can say goodbye to pesky corn silk for good!

Section 6: Microwaving Corn on the Cob: Frequently Asked Questions

To wrap up our guide to microwave corn on the cob, here are a few answers to some common questions you might have about the process:

• Can you reheat cooked corn on the cob in the microwave? Yes! Simply wrap the cooked corn in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.
• Should you wrap the corn in foil before microwaving? Some people prefer to do so, as it can help to keep the corn moist and prevent it from drying out. However, it’s not strictly necessary.
• How can you steam corn in the microwave? To steam corn on the cob, wrap it in a damp paper towel, then microwave as usual. When it’s done cooking, let it sit in the microwave for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help to create a steamy environment that will keep the corn moist and tender.

Conclusion

And there you have it – everything you need to know about how to microwave corn on the cob! Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight side dish or want to impress at your summer BBQ, this versatile vegetable is a great option. Try out some of the recipe ideas we provided or experiment with your own flavorings and seasonings.