Knowing how to cook corn is a must-have skill for the summertime. Hot, sweet, and slathered in butter—is there anything better? We didn’t think so! Today, we’re talking through the 4 ways of how to cook corn and sharing tips for each method. Before we get started, there’s one thing we must discuss—how to shuck corn!
How To Shuck Corn
First, cut the stem-end of the corn on the cob off—approximately where the stem meets the first row of kernels. Pop it in the microwave, husk and all, for about 30 to 60 seconds. Then—with a potholder to keep from being burned—pick up the uncut side of the corn and let the cob slide on out. You can remove any remaining silks by rubbing with a wet paper towel or giving it a quick scrub with a vegetable brush!
Now that we’ve covered that important topic, let’s talk about cooking methods!
How to Boil Corn
While it’s common practice to boil corn in salt water, it can actually toughen the corn! Instead, try adding a bit of sugar to the water to bring out the natural sweetness in corn. You can save the salt for serving. Adding milk to the water is another way to bring out the sweetness!
How to Grill Corn
There’s a big debate as to whether corn should be grilled husk on or husk off. While both are great, there are some added benefits to cooking with the husk on. Keeping the husk on helps to almost steam the corn while you’re cooking—just be sure to soak the corn before tossing it on the grill so the husk doesn’t catch on fire! Without the husk, corn can cook faster, which means it may start to char well before the insides of the kernels become tender and juicy.
If you still want a bit of char, try peeling just a few of the outer layers of husk off so that you still get the steamed effect but the flames get a chance to dance a bit closer to those sweet kernels of deliciousness.
As a pro-tip, before you grill the corn, peel back the husks, leaving them intact at the base, and de-silk the corn before pulling the husk back into place. Now you can enjoy the benefits of grilling the corn with the husk on without trying to peel those pesky hairs off of hot corn.
How to Make Creamed Corn
Creamed corn can be very labor-intensive, but it’s a labor of love! A corn cutter is a must-have tool. They come in wood or stainless steel and can be purchased on Amazon or at your favorite retailers. Get one with an adjustable blade so you can adjust how deep the cutter goes. After getting the kernels off (try not to get whole kernels), run your knife down the cob to get any remaining juice. Add butter, salt, and pepper, and be sure not to overcook it. If it is too dry after cooking, you can always add more cream.
Want more tips for making creamed corn? Watch Paula make her homemade creamed corn recipe here.
How to Cook Corn on the Cob in an Air Fryer
Cooking corn in the air fryer is so simple! Simply shuck the corn, spray it with cooking spray, and add your desired seasonings. If you want to cook it in lots of butter or cheese, wrap your corn, butter, and seasonings in tin foil prior to cooking. Depending on the size of your corn cobs and air fryer, it may work best to cut your corn cobs in half before placing them in the basket. (This will help you fit more corn in it.) Just be sure not to overcrowd the basket!
What’s your preferred way to cook corn? Do you have any tips we missed? Please share with us in the comments below.
