Grilling corn in the husk is an excellent way to bring out its natural sweetness while adding a smoky, charred flavor to the kernels. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a novice cook, this simple and delicious technique is a great addition to your culinary repertoire. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to grill corn in the husk and share some tips to make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Choosing the Right Corn
Before you start grilling, it’s essential to choose the right corn. You want to select fresh, high-quality corn with bright green husks and plump kernels. Avoid corn with brown, dry, or withered husks, as they may be old or past their prime. To ensure that the corn is fresh, check that the silks are still moist and that the kernels are tightly packed and free from blemishes.
Preparing the Corn
Once you have chosen your corn, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. Start by soaking the ears of corn in cold water for at least 30 minutes. Soaking the corn helps to prevent the husks from burning and also adds moisture to the kernels. If you’re short on time, you can also microwave the corn in its husk for a minute or two to help steam it.
After soaking, remove any loose or damaged outer leaves, leaving the inner layers intact. Then, pull back the remaining husks gently, without detaching them from the base of the cob. Remove the silks by hand or using a brush, making sure to remove as much as possible without damaging the kernels. Finally, fold the husks back over the kernels and tie them with a piece of string or a strip of corn husk to keep them in place.
Grilling the Corn
Grilling corn in the husk is simple and straightforward, but it requires a bit of patience and attention to detail. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the grill grates, positioning them so that the husks are not directly over the flames. Close the lid and let the corn cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
When the husks have charred and the kernels are tender, carefully remove the corn from the grill using tongs or oven mitts. Allow the corn to cool for a few minutes before peeling back the husks and removing the string. Serve the corn hot, with butter and salt, or any other toppings of your choice.
Tips and Tricks
Grilling corn in the husk is a simple process, but there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to make the process easier and more enjoyable.
- Soak the corn in cold water before grilling to prevent the husks from burning and add moisture to the kernels.
- Remove as much of the silks as possible before grilling to avoid burning and make it easier to eat the corn.
- Tie the husks with string or corn husk to keep them in place while grilling and prevent them from burning or falling off.
- Turn the corn occasionally while grilling to ensure even cooking and char.
Conclusion
Grilling corn in the husk is a delicious and easy way to enjoy one of summer’s most popular foods. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can create perfectly charred, tender, and sweet corn that will impress your family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips, and you’ll be grilling corn like a pro in no time!
