Summer sweet corn, with its tender kernels bursting with sweetness, is a beloved staple of the season’s cuisine. Picking and cooking corn at the peak of its freshness ensures maximum flavor and enjoyment. In this article, we’ll explore how to select ripe corn, different cooking methods, and delicious recipes to make the most of this summertime favorite.
1. Selecting Ripe Corn: When selecting corn at the market or grocery store, look for ears with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the kernels. Feel the ear through the huskâit should feel plump and firm, with kernels that are well-filled and evenly spaced. Avoid ears with dried, brown, or wilted husks, as well as those with missing or damaged kernels.
2. Shucking Corn: To prepare corn for cooking, start by removing the husks and silk. Peel back the husks, taking care not to tear them, and remove the silk by hand or with a vegetable brush. Rinse the ears under cold water to remove any remaining silk.
3. Cooking Methods: There are several ways to cook sweet corn, each resulting in deliciously tender and flavorful kernels:
- Boiling: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the shucked ears of corn. Cook for 4-6 minutes, depending on the size and freshness of the corn, until the kernels are tender but still crisp.
- Grilling: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Place the shucked ears of corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred and tender.
- Steaming: Place a steamer basket in a pot filled with 1-2 inches of water. Add the shucked ears of corn to the basket, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes, until the kernels are tender.
- Microwaving: Place the shucked ears of corn on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave, until the kernels are tender.
4. Serving Suggestions: Once cooked, sweet corn can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Butter and Salt: Spread hot corn with butter and sprinkle with salt for a classic and delicious flavor combination.
- Herb Butter: Mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or cilantro, and spread over hot corn for an extra burst of flavor.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Spread cooked corn with mayonnaise or sour cream, sprinkle with chili powder or paprika, and crumble cotija cheese over the top. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing.
- Corn Salad: Cut cooked corn kernels off the cob and toss with diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, and a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing summer salad.
5. Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover cooked corn, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through before serving.
With these tips for selecting ripe corn, various cooking methods, and delicious serving suggestions, you can enjoy the sweet, tender goodness of summer sweet corn to its fullest. Whether boiled, grilled, steamed, or microwaved, fresh corn is a versatile and delicious addition to any summer meal. So head to the market, pick out some perfectly ripe ears of corn, and savor the flavors of the season!
