How To Cook Corn On The Cob On BBQ

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How To Cook Corn On The Cob On BBQ

Cooking Corn on the Cob on the BBQ: A Delicious Summer Treat

Summertime is the perfect season to fire up the barbecue and indulge in some outdoor cooking. One classic dish that simply screams summer is corn on the cob. The smoky flavors and charred sweetness make it a favorite at backyard gatherings and cookouts. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to perfectly cook corn on the cob on the BBQ, ensuring a mouthwatering, delectable treat for your next summer feast.

Choose the Perfect Ear of Corn

First things first, when it comes to cooking corn on the cob, selecting the right ears is crucial. Look for ears with bright green husks that feel plump and tightly wrapped. The kernels should appear plump and firm when you peel back a small section of the husk. For an extra burst of sweetness, choose corn that has been picked within the last 24 hours.

Preparation: Husk or No Husk?

When it comes to preparing your corn on the cob for the BBQ, you have a couple of options: husk on or husk off.

  • Husk On: For a more traditional barbecue experience, leaving the husks on while cooking is the way to go. Soak the corn, husks and all, in cold water for about 30 minutes to prevent the husks from burning on the grill. This method allows the corn to steam inside the husks, resulting in tender, juicy kernels with a subtle smoky flavor.
  • Husk Off: If you prefer a slightly charred, grilled taste, then husk off is the way to go. Simply peel back the husks and remove the silky threads. Brush the corn with olive oil or melted butter and season with salt and pepper or your favorite spices. The direct heat of the grill will create those coveted grill marks and add a smoky essence to the corn.

Grilling Techniques

Now that you’ve prepared your corn, it’s time for the main event: the BBQ. Follow these grilling techniques to ensure the perfect corn on the cob every time:

  1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-204°C). This will allow the corn to cook evenly without burning.
  2. Cooking Time: Place your prepared corn on the grill, rotating occasionally to ensure even cooking. Husk-on corn will take about 15-20 minutes, while husk-off corn will cook slightly quicker, around 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the corn and adjust cooking time as needed.
  3. Basting Options: Enhance the flavors of your corn on the cob by basting it with butter, herbs, or spices while grilling. This will add a delightful layer of richness and depth to each bite.
  4. Test for Doneness: To check if your corn is done, gently pierce a kernel with a fork or knife. If it is tender and juicy, it’s ready to be devoured. Be careful not to overcook, as the kernels can become mushy.

Once your corn on the cob is beautifully grilled, it’s time to serve and enjoy. Whether you like it plain, slathered in butter, or sprinkled with cheese and herbs, the BBQ-cooked corn on the cob will surely be the star of your summer meal. So, fire up that grill, grab a cold drink, and savor the flavors of a delicious summer treat!

Share your tips and tricks for grilling the perfect corn on the cob in the Cooking Techniques forum and let’s discuss!
FAQ:
What is the best way to prepare corn on the cob for BBQ?
Before grilling corn on the cob, you’ll want to remove the husks and silk. Start by peeling back the outer layer of husk, leaving a few layers intact to protect the corn. Remove the silk by brushing it off with your hands or using a damp cloth. Finally, trim any excess husk at the top of the cob to ensure it doesn’t catch fire while grilling.
Should I soak the corn before grilling it?
Soaking the corn before grilling is not necessary but can add some additional moisture and flavor. If you choose to soak, simply place the shucked corn in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. This can help prevent the corn from drying out while on the grill.
How long should I grill corn on the cob?
Grilling time for corn on the cob varies depending on the heat of your BBQ. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C). Place the shucked corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. The corn should have a slightly charred appearance and be tender when pierced with a fork.
Can I add any seasonings or marinades to the corn?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor of grilled corn on the cob by adding seasonings or marinades. Some popular options include brushing the corn with melted butter and sprinkling it with salt, pepper, or even chili powder. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
How can I prevent the corn from drying out while grilling?
To prevent the corn from drying out, you can brush it with butter or oil before placing it on the grill. You can also try wrapping the corn in aluminum foil, which helps to retain moisture. Additionally, turning the corn occasionally while grilling will ensure even cooking and prevent excessive drying.
Yes, you can grill corn on the cob with the husks on, but keep in mind that it will result in steamed corn rather than the charred and smoky flavor of grilling with the husks removed. If grilling with the husks on, be sure to remove the silk first and soak the corn in water for about 10 minutes. Then, place the corn, with the husks still intact, on the BBQ and grill for around 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.
Any tips for serving grilled corn on the cob?
Grilled corn on the cob is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by adding additional toppings. Consider brushing the cooked corn with melted butter, sprinkling it with cheese, such as Parmesan or feta, and adding a squeeze of fresh lime or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. These toppings will complement the smoky flavors from grilling and add an extra burst of taste.

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