Boiled Corn on the Cob Recipe
Posted November 10, 2023 by: Admin
The onset of summer signals the arrival of corn on the cob season. This Boiled Corn on the Cob recipe stands out for its simplicity, making it an ideal choice for summertime BBQs, ensuring each bite is incredibly juicy.
Boiling corn on the cob is the most straightforward method of cooking. If you have a penchant for corn, explore our other corn recipes like Instant Pot Corn and Grilled Corn in Foil, so you can effortlessly serve this perfect side dish throughout the summer!
How Long to Boil Corn:
Boiling corn on the cob guarantees plump and juicy kernels, but the optimal boiling time depends on the corn’s age. Fresh ears of corn on the cob require about 15 minutes of boiling. Slightly older ears may take a bit longer—exercise caution to avoid overcooking! Assess the crisp-tenderness of the kernels before removing them from the heat.
The Secret to Sweet Corn on the Cob:
Optimal sweetness and juiciness are guaranteed when boiling corn on the cob during its peak season. For consistent perfection, add sugar to the water—an invaluable tip passed down by my late friend Pearl, akin to a grandmother. This extra sweetness transforms boiled corn on the cob into a culinary delight!
How to Cook Corn on the Cob:
- Shuck your corn and place it in a large soup or stockpot, ensuring it is submerged in water.
- Bring the water to a boil, add sugar, cover, reduce heat to medium, and boil for 15 minutes.
- After the allotted time, check for crisp-tenderness. Remove from heat, drain, and for convenience, thread each ear of corn onto a wooden skewer. Optionally, add butter, salt, and pepper.
Pro Serving Tip: Serve your boiled corn on the cob on wooden skewers! This keeps your fingers from getting burned as you eat the freshly cooked corn. As an added bonus, the skewer allows you to butter your corn without worrying about the butter dripping all over your hands.
Leftover Corn on the Cob?
While this boiled corn on the cob is best enjoyed fresh and hot, if you can’t finish it in one sitting, wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. Use the sweet juicy kernels for Corn Guacamole or fresh Avocado Corn Salad. Additionally, the leftover bare cobs can be saved for the best Corn Chowder.
- Place corn in a large soup/stock pot and fill it with enough water to cover the corn.
- Bring water to a boil and add 2 Tbsp of sugar (1 Tbsp for a smaller pot and 2 for a huge one).
- Cover, reduce heat to medium and boil 15 minutes. When time is up, sample a few kernels of corn before turning off. “Older” corn may take a few more minutes to cook. Kernels should be crisp-tender.
- Remove from heat and drain. Butter and pepper your corn if you like. Best to eat it fresh, or wrap it in foil and save it for later.
