How to Cook Corn on the Cob on the Grill ⏬👇

Grilled corn on the cob is a quintessential summer treat that combines the smoky, charred flavor of the grill with the natural sweetness of fresh corn. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a taste of summer, this versatile and easy-to-make side dish is a crowd-pleaser. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to cook corn on the cob on the grill to perfection. Plus, we’ll explore delicious seasoning and sauce options to take your grilled corn to the next level.

The Ingredients You’ll Need:

Before you fire up the grill, gather the following ingredients:

• Fresh corn on the cob (as many ears as you need)
• Butter or olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional toppings and seasonings (such as herbs, spices, or cheese)

Choosing the Perfect Corn:

To achieve the best results, select the finest ears of corn available. Look for these signs when choosing corn at the market:

• Bright green husks that are snugly wrapped around the corn.
• Kernels should feel plump and well-filled when touched.
• Gently peel back a section of the husk to ensure the kernels are tightly packed and juicy.

Preparing the Corn:

1. Start by gently peeling back the husks without removing them entirely. Leave the husks attached to the base of the ear.
2. Remove the silk, which are the fine, thread-like strands, as they can easily catch fire on the grill. Use your hands or a vegetable brush to help with this process.
3. Once the corn is cleaned, pull the husks back over the corn, covering it entirely. This will help prevent the corn from burning and infuse it with a smoky flavor.

Soaking the Corn:

Before grilling, consider soaking the corn in water for about 15-30 minutes. This step adds moisture to the corn and helps prevent it from drying out on the grill.

Grilling the Corn:

Now, it’s time to get the grill going. Follow these steps for the perfect grilled corn:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C).
2. Place the prepared ears of corn on the grill grates. You can position them directly on the grates or, for extra flavor, directly on the hot coals if you’re using charcoal.
3. Rotate the corn every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking. Grill the corn for a total of about 10-15 minutes or until the kernels are tender and have developed a nice char.
4. Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before handling.

Flavorful Seasoning and Sauces:

While grilled corn on the cob is delicious on its own, you can take it to the next level with a variety of seasonings, sauces, and toppings:

1. Classic Butter and Seasoning: Slather the grilled corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper. You can also add a touch of paprika, chili powder, or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
2. Garlic Herb Butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic and fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives. Spread this mixture generously over the grilled corn.
3. Spicy Chipotle Mayo: Combine mayonnaise with chipotle pepper, lime juice, and a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
4. Pesto Drizzle: Spoon homemade or store-bought pesto over the corn for a burst of herbaceous flavor.
5. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Brush grilled corn with mayonnaise, then sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime.
6. Asian-Inspired: Brush with soy sauce and sesame oil, then sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
7. Herb and Parmesan: Mix chopped fresh herbs, such as basil and parsley, with grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Serving Your Grilled Corn:

Now that your grilled corn on the cob is perfectly seasoned and cooked, it’s time to serve it to your eager guests. Arrange the ears of corn on a platter and let everyone choose their favorite toppings and sauces. Grilled corn makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or as a star side dish at your summer cookout.

Cook corn on the cob is a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of fresh corn while infusing it with the smoky, charred flavors of the grill. With just a few simple steps and some creative seasonings, you can turn this classic summertime treat into a culinary masterpiece. So, fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the mouthwatering goodness of perfectly grilled corn on the cob. Your taste buds and your guests will thank you.