Friday, July 25, 2014

The Best Way to Cook Corn on the Cob


cornIt’s the peak season for corn on the cob, so how do you make it delicious? Soak it in milk or water, leave on the husk or strip it clean, steam, boil, roast, microwave or grill? So many ways, how can you know the best way to make great juicy corn on the cob?



Corn is corn, right?
I have tried cooking field corn with poor results. Make sure you have sweet corn. Grocers and most farm markets will sell the sweet corn.  I’ve always thought white and yellow sweet corn (also known as bi-color, super-sweet, or butter and sugar) is much sweeter than yellow corn. Truth is, they are the same. The difference in taste can be in the age of the corn. Look for smaller, young ears with small kernels and fresh silk at the base: the fresher, the better. If you're not going to eat it right away, keep the corn in their husks to retain moisture, place them inside a plastic bag and refrigerate in the crisper drawer.

Soak it in Milk?
Some like to soak the corn first, either in ice water or milk. According to food.com/kittencalskitchen, “soaking the corn in milk takes the corn to another level.” Some claim it makes the corn extra crunchy. However, over-soaking can also make it mushy. Eight hours should to be the maximum time.

Microwave for Silk-Free Ears
Microwaving corn is quick and easy, and you don’t even have to husk it or strip the silk. Simply put the whole cob in the microwave, nuke for 2-4 minutes, then remove. Cut off the base of the cob, and squeeze the top. The cob will slide out without any silk attached! Careful - it's hot!

Grill or Roast
But, what if the microwave breaks down, or the electric goes out? You can still have great corn on the cob by grilling it, or roasting it on an open campfire. Roast it with the husks on, or wrap in aluminum foil first.

Ardent dieters claim corn is fattening because of the sugar and starch content. Corn is a great source of fiber. One cob yields approximately one cup which is 143 calories (32 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of protein, and 2.2 grams of fat). Corn is nutritious, lowers cholesterol, helps regulate blood sugar and fights constipation, according to livestrong.com. So cook up some sweet corn this summer and enjoy!

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