How To Make Corn On The Cob On The Grill: Expert Chef Step-by-Step Guide ([year])

Ever wondered why some grilled corn is tender and tasty, while others are dry and dull? As summer grilling season comes, learning to make corn on the cob can make your barbecue better. I’ll share my expert tips to make sure your grilled corn is soft, juicy, and smoky. This is the perfect side dish for any event.

I’ll show you how to pick the best corn and prepare it well. You’ll learn how to season it just right. Don’t worry if you’ve had trouble before. With these tips, you’ll wow your family and friends with your grilled corn this summer!

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right corn is crucial for delicious grilled corn.
Proper preparation can make all the difference in flavor and texture.
Techniques for grilling with or without the husk can yield different taste profiles.
Seasoning options can enhance the flavor of corn on the cob.
Leftover corn can be stored properly to maintain freshness.

Choosing the Best Corn for Grilling

Choosing the right corn is key for grilling success. I suggest picking fresh sweet corn types. They caramelize well over heat. Favorites include Earlivee, Honey and Cream, Jubilee, and Silver Queen. Each type brings unique flavors to your grilling.

Look for signs of freshness when picking corn. Good corn has bright green husks, moist silk, and feels plump. Buy corn soon after it’s picked to enjoy its sweetness before it turns to starch.

Variety	Flavor Profile	Texture
Earlivee	Sweet, buttery	Tender, juicy
Honey and Cream	Classic sweetness	Crunchy
Jubilee	Rich, sweet	Crisp
Silver Queen	Delicate sweetness	Creamy

Knowing your options lets you pick the best corn for grilling. Enjoy amazing flavor at your next cookout.

Preparing to Grill Corn on the Cob

Before grilling corn, focus on proper preparation. Start by soaking the corn in cold water for 10 to 15 minutes. This makes the ears juicy and flavorful.

If you remove the husks, you don’t need to soak the corn. This method lets the kernels get caramelized, giving a unique taste and texture. Preparing the corn well is crucial for delicious grilled corn. The effort you put in makes the first bite amazing!

How to Make Corn on the Cob on the Grill

Grilling corn on the cob is a tasty summer side dish. I’ll show you how to soak and shuck corn for grilling. These steps keep your corn juicy and full of flavor.

Soaking Corn in Husk

Soaking corn in husk before grilling is a smart move. It keeps the corn safe while it cooks, making it moist and tasty. Put the whole ears of corn in a big container of cold water for at least 30 minutes.

This soaking steams the corn while it grills, so it doesn’t dry out.

Shucking Corn for Grilling

After soaking, it’s time to remove the husks. I like to shuck the corn right away. Start by peeling back the husk from the top, but don’t take it all off yet.

This keeps the silk on, making it easy to grill. Then, take off any silk left and fold the husks back over the corn. This protects the kernels while grilling.

Using these steps, your grilled corn will be fresh and juicy. This prep makes grilling corn a memorable experience.

Grilling Techniques: Husked vs. Unhusked Corn

Choosing between husked and unhusked corn can change how it tastes and feels. Each type has its own benefits for different tastes. Knowing these methods can help you pick what you like best.

Grilling with Husk

Grilling corn with the husk on makes it steam inside. The husk keeps the kernels juicy and adds a sweet taste. I soak the husked corn in water before grilling to help it steam and not burn.

Soak the corn for at least 30 minutes.
Place directly on the grill for 15-20 minutes.
Turn occasionally for even cooking.

Grilling Without Husk

Grilling unhusked corn gives it a smoky flavor. The kernels get a crispy texture from grilling directly. I brush them with oil or butter for extra taste and to prevent sticking. This method cooks quicker than husked corn.

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning regularly.
Watch for a nice char and remove for optimal flavor.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Getting the right corn cooking time and grilling temperature is key for delicious grilled corn. I set the grill to medium heat, around 350°F to 400°F. This ensures the corn cooks evenly without burning.

The typical grilled corn timing is about 15 to 20 minutes. I turn the corn a few times while it cooks. This helps cook it evenly and makes it tender. To know if it’s done, look for plump, juicy kernels. This means the corn is ready to eat.

To see the best way to grill your corn, check out this guide:

Grilling Temperature (°F)	Corn Cooking Time (minutes)	Check for Doneness
350 – 400	15 – 20	Kernels are plump and tender
Below 350	Over 20	Takes longer, may dry out
Above 400	Less than 15	Risk of burning

Tips for Maintaining Moisture and Flavor

Grilling corn to perfection is a challenge. But, with the right techniques, I’ve found ways to make it taste and feel amazing. I use foil grilling and parboiling to keep the corn moist and flavorful.

Using Foil to Retain Moisture

Foil grilling is great for keeping corn moist. It steams in its own juices, making it juicy. Here’s how to do it:

Start by soaking the corn in water for about 15 minutes. This helps to ensure that the corn won’t dry out during the grilling process.
Wrap each ear of corn tightly in aluminum foil, making sure there are no gaps. This will prevent moisture from escaping.
Consider adding a touch of butter or olive oil inside the foil along with your favorite grilled corn seasoning for extra flavor.
Place the wrapped corn on the grill, turning occasionally, for approximately 15-20 minutes. The result is perfectly tender corn that retains moisture.

Parboiling Corn: Is it Necessary?

Parboiling corn makes it tender and boosts flavor. It also cuts down on cooking time. Here’s what you need to know about parboiling:

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water to infuse flavor.
Carefully place the shucked corn into the boiling water and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes.
After parboiling, transfer the corn directly to the grill for an additional 5-10 minutes. This method ensures a juicy texture and locks in flavor.
While some chefs praise this technique, others prefer to grill corn directly. It ultimately depends on personal preference. I have found parboiling works well for my palate.

Best Seasonings for Grilled Corn

Grilling corn on the cob is a great chance to try new seasonings and toppings. The right mix can make your corn amazing. I start with classic toppings and then try new flavors for everyone.

Classic Butter and Sea Salt

Butter and sea salt on grilled corn are a classic favorite. The corn’s sweetness goes well with butter’s creaminess. Sea salt adds more flavor. I make my own compound butters to make this dish even better. Here are some of my favorites:

Garlic Herb Butter: Combine softened butter with minced garlic, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt.
Cilantro Lime Butter: Mix butter with chopped cilantro, lime zest, and a dash of chili powder.
Spicy Chipotle Butter: Blend butter with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.

Creative Topping Ideas

For something different, try these unique flavors on grilled corn. These toppings will make your corn a hit at any barbecue:

Spicy Mayonnaise: A blend of mayonnaise with lime juice, hot sauce, and a sprinkle of paprika creates a creamy, zesty coating.
Feta Cheese and Fresh Herbs: Crumbled feta, mixed with chopped basil or dill, adds a refreshing twist.
Chili Powder and Lime: A sprinkle of chili powder alongside a squeeze of lime juice delivers a punchy flavor boost.

These toppings make grilled corn taste better and are fun for guests. Don’t be afraid to try new things and find your favorite mix!

Topping	Flavor Profile	Preparation
Classic Butter and Sea Salt	Rich and Savory	Spread butter and sprinkle salt on hot corn.
Garlic Herb Butter	Garlicky and Herbal	Mix butter, garlic, and herbs; apply generously.
Spicy Mayonnaise	Creamy and Zesty	Combine mayonnaise, lime juice, and hot sauce; drizzle over corn.
Chili Powder and Lime	Spicy and Tangy	Sprinkle chili powder and squeeze lime; serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing

Grilled corn is perfect with many summer meals. It goes great with juicy burgers, steak, and fresh fish. The sweet, smoky taste of the corn adds to the meal.

One way to make grilled corn even better is with side dishes. Try a corn salsa with tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime. Or, mix it into a salad with greens, avocado, and a light dressing.

For barbecues, here are some ideas:

Grilled corn on skewers with cotija cheese and chili powder
Corn fritters with spicy dipping sauce
Mexican street corn with mayo, lime, and crumbled cheese

These dishes are great for parties. Grilled corn is versatile, so everyone can find a favorite. It’s perfect for both light meals and big sides.

Main Dish	Grilled Side Dish	Pairing Suggestion
Burgers	Grilled corn slaw	Light lager
Steak	Grilled corn and avocado salad	Rich red wine
Grilled Fish	Corn salsa	Crisp white wine

Storing Leftover Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn is a tasty treat, but sometimes we have leftovers. It’s important to store it right to keep that fresh taste. Wrap the corn in plastic wrap or foil before putting it in the fridge. This keeps it moist and sweet.

To reheat, use the oven or stovetop. Heat it low to avoid cooking it too much. Or, microwave it for a minute or two with a bit of water to keep it moist.

Want to get creative with leftover corn? Try mixing it into a fresh salsa. The grilled taste makes any dish better. You can also add it to salads or stir-fries for extra flavor and texture. These ideas help you enjoy your grilled corn without waste!

Conclusion

Grilling corn on the cob is more than just a task; it’s an experience. It can make your summer cookout special. By picking the best corn and following expert tips, you can make corn that’s full of flavor and texture.

Whether you like it with or without the husk, I’ve given you the best ways to do it. You can try different seasonings and toppings to make your grilled corn unique. This can make it a hit at any event.

This guide is just the start of your cooking adventure. I’m excited to hear about your grilled corn successes at the next event. Let’s get grilling!

FAQ

What is the best variety of corn for grilling?

Fresh sweet corn is the top choice for grilling. Types like Earlivee, Honey and Cream, Jubilee, and Silver Queen are favorites. They taste great and get all caramelized when grilled.

How do I prepare corn for grilling?

For grilling corn with husks, soak it in cold water for 10-15 minutes. This keeps it moist. If you’re removing the husks, you don’t need to soak it. But, it will get a smoky taste from the heat.