Name: Boil Corn on the Cob
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 ears Corn on the cob; 8 cups Water; 1 teaspoon Salt

What is it like to eat corn on the cob? Is it one of those simple pleasures that instantly takes me back to childhood summers, family and friends? What is the joy of sticky fingers and contented sighs? I think I could live on this stuff! What is your go-to side dish? For us, it’s always been perfectly cooked corn on the cob**. Is it easier than making mashed potatoes? This isn’t just any boiled corn; this is the way we do it, and it’s truly the best!

What is boiled corn on the cob?

What is a boil corn on the cob? Fresh ears of corn, still in their husks or shucked, cooked in boiling water. Is a blank canvas for so many delicious flavors? What are some of the best summer side dishes? Is sunshine on a plate, essentially sunshine in the sun? My grandma used to say it was “nature’s candy” and I have to agree! Is there a side dish that everyone loves? I think its simplicity is what makes it such a classic!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I begin? It’s about achieving that perfect balance of sweet, tender kernels and maximizing flavor. If you try something new, you’ll never go back!

The sweetness of corn is enhanced by the simple cooking process, making it taste like pure puree. Is sugar too sweet? The corn is already perfect as it is!

What are some of the easiest recipes to make? If you boil water, you can make this! Is this one of those recipes that’s almost *too* easy, but the results are so impressive?

• Cost-efficiency: Corn on the cob is typically super affordable, especially during peak season. How do I feed my family for a few dollars? I’m trying to stick to a budget, but still want something delicious. This is lifesaver.

• **Versatility**: Can I serve this plain with butter and salt, or dress it up with herbs and spices? What are the possibilities? We like to grill ours for a smoky flavor, but that’s another recipe for another day! What I love about this is how adaptable it is. How long does it take to cook corn? What are some of the best toppings for pizza? What is it like to have a pickiest eater?

How to Boil Corn on the Cob

Quick Overview

The secret to perfectly boiled corn on the cob isn’t just about throwing it in a pot of water and hoping for the best. It’s about using the right amount of water, timing it just right, and adding a touch of something special to enhance the flavor. Don’t worry, it’s still incredibly easy, I promise! This method ensures that every kernel is tender and bursting with sweetness.

Ingredients

For the perfect boil: What are some examples?
• 6 ears of fresh corn on the cob, husked and silks removed. (Choose ears that feel firm and have plump kernels. The fresher, the better!)
• Water. (Enough to completely cover the corn in the pot.)

For Flavor (Optional, but Recommended!):
• 1 tablespoon of butter (Adds a subtle richness to the corn.)
• 1 teaspoon of salt (Helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the corn.)

For Serving:
• Butter, salt, pepper, and any other desired toppings (Get creative! Chili powder, lime juice, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can be amazing!)

What are the steps to

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Husk the corn by pulling back the outer leaves and removing the silky strands. Give the ears a good rinse under cold water to remove any remaining silks.

Step 2: Boil the Water

Fill a large pot with enough water to completely submerge the corn. Add the butter and salt to the water. Bring to a rolling boil.

Step 3: Add the Corn

Gently place the corn into the boiling water. Make sure the water covers the corn; if not, add more water.

Step 4: Cook the Corn

Once the corn is in the pot, bring the water back to a boil. Then, reduce the heat slightly and let the corn cook for 5-7 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on how fresh the corn is. You’ll know it’s ready when the kernels are tender and vibrant yellow.

Step 5: Remove and Serve

Carefully remove the corn from the pot using tongs. Let it cool slightly before serving. Slather with butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and enjoy!

What to Serve It With

Boiled corn on the cob is so versatile that it pairs well with just about anything! Here are a few of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

For Barbecues: Burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, and ribs are all fantastic partners for corn on the cob. It’s the quintessential summer barbecue side!

With Seafood:What are some of the best ways to serve grilled shrimp, lobster, or a simple fish fillet?

As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside a salad, grilled vegetables, or any main course that needs a touch of sweetness.

For Cozy Nights: What isI love serving it on nights where we grill steaks, we serve some grilled corn and a salad. Is it so simple but so good?

My family loves it best with a simple pat of butter and sprinkle of salt, but feel free to get creative. What are some creative toppings? What is the best way to add sour cream to a salad? The next level.

How do you cook boiled corn on the cob?

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make a big difference in the final result. Here are my top tips for perfectly boiled corn on the cob:

Why do people like fresh corn? The fresher the corn, the sweeter and more flavorful it will be. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels.

Don’t overco Overcooked corn can be tough and mushy. Keep a close eye on the cooking time and remove it from the pot as soon as the kernels are tender.

Add Butter and Salt to the Water: This helps to infuse the corn with flavor from the inside out. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Try different herbs, spices, or even cheeses to find your favorite combination.

What is salt after cooking? I know that I said to add salt to the water and that’s still important but the reason is different. Adding salt to the water helps to infuse the flavors while cooking but adding it after helps it to stick to the kernels.

Try adding some lemon juice: Adding lemon juice or any citrus adds a new dimention of flavour to the recipe. Try adding lemon before and after.

I learned these tips the hard way, through years of trial and error. But trust me, they’re worth it! Perfectly boiled corn on the cob is a true summer delight.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftover boiled corn on the cob (which is rare in my house!), here are some tips for storing and reheating it:

Refrigerator Storage: Wrap the corn tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture will change some but still tastes pretty good

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze boiled corn on the cob. Wrap each ear individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. This lasts a surprisingly long time, and you can then enjoy it during the winter months

Reheating: To reheat, you can either boil the corn for a few minutes, microwave it, or grill it. If boiling, just heat up some water and add your corn, if microwaving just add some water to the container and heat it in intervals so it doesn’t dry out, and if grilling, just grill until the corn is hot and charred.

Glaze Timing Advice: Do not add the glaze before storing. The corn will get soggy if you do!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I boil corn on the cob with the husks on?

Yes, you can! Some people believe that boiling corn with the husks on adds extra flavor and moisture. However, it will take longer to cook, and it can be a bit messier to remove the husks after cooking. I personally prefer to husk it first for convenience.

How do I know when the corn is done?

The best way to tell if the corn is done is to check the kernels. They should be tender and plump. You can also use a fork to pierce a kernel; if it releases a milky liquid, it’s ready.

Can I add sugar to the boiling water?

Some people add sugar to the boiling water to enhance the sweetness of the corn. However, I find that it’s not necessary, especially if you’re using fresh, sweet corn. I think that it is overkill!

What are some other toppings I can use?

The possibilities are endless! Try chili powder, lime juice, Parmesan cheese, herbs, spices, or even a dollop of sour cream. Get creative and find your favorite combination! You can even make a simple garlic butter to drizzle over the corn.

Can I grill the corn instead of boiling it?

Absolutely! Grilling corn on the cob adds a delicious smoky flavor. You can either grill it in the husks or shuck it and grill it directly over the heat. Just be sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. If you are grilling it with the husks, remember to soak it in water before grilling!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my family’s secret to perfectly **boil corn on the cob**! It’s a simple recipe, but it’s one that we cherish and make time and time again. I truly believe that this is the best way to enjoy the sweet taste of summer. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my grilled corn on the cob with chili-lime butter, or my corn and black bean salsa. I know you won’t be disappointed!
Happy cooking! And please, let me know in the comments how yours turns out. I’d love to hear about your favorite toppings and any variations you try. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends!

No ratings yet