Perfectly Boiled Sweet Corn on the Cob
Freshly harvested corn on the cob can be one of the most delightful and wholesome additions to any meal. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness and flavor of the corn by boiling it to perfection. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll have a delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, salads, or can be enjoyed on its own. The optional butter and seasonings enhance the natural taste, making this dish versatile and easy to prepare. Ideal for summer barbecues or a cozy family dinner, this boiled corn recipe is a true celebration of fresh produce.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Corn on the cob
1 (Husked and rinsed)
Water
As needed (For boiling)
Butter or Margarine
1 tablespoon (Optional, for topping)
Salt
To taste (Optional, for seasoning)
Ground black pepper
To taste (Optional, for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Start by husking the corn, removing both the outer green layers and the silk strands. Rinse the corn under cold water to ensure it's clean.
2
In a large pot, fill with enough water to completely submerge the corn. Consider adding a pinch of salt for additional flavor.
3
Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium heat. Once boiling, carefully add the corn on the cob to the pot and cover with a lid.
4
Cook for 10-15 minutes, tasting a kernel or two at the 10-minute mark to check the tenderness. Cook longer if you prefer softer corn.
5
Once cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the corn from the pot using tongs and let it drain briefly.
6
Serve hot and offer optional toppings such as butter, salt, and pepper. Enjoy each juicy bite of this summer treat!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I boil sweet corn on the cob?
You should boil the corn for 10 to 15 minutes, checking for tenderness at the 10-minute mark.
Do I need to husk the corn before boiling?
Yes, start by husking the corn and removing both the outer green layers and the silk strands.
Should I rinse the corn before cooking?
Yes, rinse the corn under cold water after husking to ensure it is clean.
How much water should I use to boil corn?
Fill a large pot with enough water to completely submerge all the corn on the cob.
Should I add salt to the boiling water?
Adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water is recommended for additional flavor.
What heat setting is used for boiling corn?
Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium heat.
Should I cover the pot while boiling corn?
Yes, once you add the corn to the boiling water, cover the pot with a lid.
How do I know when the corn is cooked?
Taste a kernel or two at the 10-minute mark to check if it has reached your desired tenderness.
What should I do if I prefer softer corn?
If you prefer softer corn, simply cook it for a few minutes longer than the initial 10-15 minute window.
What is the best way to remove the corn from the hot water?
Use tongs to carefully remove the corn from the pot once it is cooked.
Should I drain the corn after boiling?
Yes, let the corn drain briefly after removing it from the pot before serving.
What are the recommended toppings for boiled corn?
Optional toppings include butter, margarine, salt, and ground black pepper.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this boiled sweet corn recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe suggests either butter or margarine as an optional topping.
What main dishes pair well with boiled corn?
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, salads, or can be enjoyed as a standalone snack.
Is this recipe good for summer barbecues?
Absolutely, it is described as an ideal side dish for summer barbecues and family dinners.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 simple ingredients: corn on the cob, water, butter or margarine, salt, and pepper.
Does this recipe use fresh corn?
Yes, the recipe specifically highlights the natural sweetness of freshly harvested corn.
Can I add pepper to the corn?
Yes, ground black pepper can be added to taste as a seasoning.
What type of corn is best for this recipe?
Sweet corn on the cob is the preferred type for this boiling method.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, with a boiling time of 10-15 minutes, it is considered a quick and easy side dish.
Should the water be at a rolling boil before adding corn?
Yes, wait until the water reaches a rolling boil before carefully adding the corn.
Is the salt in the water mandatory?
No, adding salt to the water is optional and intended for extra flavor.
Can I serve the corn cold?
While it can be eaten cold, the recipe recommends serving it hot for the best experience.
How do I remove the silk from the corn?
The silk strands should be pulled away during the husking process and rinsed off.
What size pot is needed?
A large pot is required to ensure there is enough room to submerge the corn completely.
Is any sugar added to the water?
No, this recipe relies on the natural sweetness of the corn and does not call for added sugar.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes, as long as you have a large enough pot and enough water to cover the additional ears of corn.
What is the first step of the recipe?
The first step is husking the corn and removing the outer layers and silk.
Is this a wholesome side dish?
Yes, it is described as a delightful and wholesome addition to any meal.