Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to steam corn on the cob in the microwave?
Microwaving corn inside its husks wrapped in damp paper towels is an excellent method for keeping it tender and moist.
Do I need to remove the husks before cooking?
No, leave the husks on during cooking to help steam the corn and keep it juicy.
How should I prepare the corn silks?
Trim the floppy silks from the top of the corn husks before microwaving, but do not remove the husks themselves.
Why should I cut the bottom of the corn cob before cooking?
Cutting about 1/4 inch from the bottom of the husks and cob allows the entire husk and silk to slide off easily after steaming.
What is the purpose of damp paper towels?
The damp paper towels create a steaming environment around the corn to ensure it stays moist.
How many paper towels are needed per ear of corn?
Each ear of corn should be wrapped in two layers of damp paper towels.
How do I prepare the paper towels?
Moisten them under running water and squeeze out the excess moisture so they are damp but not dripping.
Where should I place the corn in the microwave?
Place the wrapped corn around the circumference of the microwave turntable for the most even cooking.
How long do I microwave the corn on the first side?
Microwave the corn on HIGH for 1.5 minutes before turning it.
Is it necessary to flip the corn?
Yes, carefully turn the corn onto its other side after the first 1.5 minutes to ensure even heating.
What is the total cooking time in the microwave?
The total microwave time is approximately 3 minutes, or 1.5 minutes per side.
How can I tell if the corn is done microwaving?
The corn is ready to be removed when it feels very hot to the touch through the wrapping.
Is the corn hot when removing it from the microwave?
Yes, the corn will be very hot; you should always use a towel or oven mitts for safety.
Why do I need to let the corn rest?
Letting the corn rest for 5 minutes allows the trapped steam to finish the cooking process.
How easy is it to remove the husks after cooking?
The husks and silks will slip off very easily after the steaming and resting process is complete.
Can I add butter and salt?
Yes, you can serve the warm corn with butter and salt to taste if desired.
How many calories are in this steamed corn recipe?
There are approximately 90 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
This recipe contains 1g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in one ear of corn?
There are 19g of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this corn recipe provide protein?
Yes, each serving contains 3g of protein.
Is there fiber in steamed corn on the cob?
Yes, this recipe provides 2g of dietary fiber per serving.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this steamed corn recipe is completely vegetarian.
Is this corn recipe gluten-free?
Yes, corn is naturally gluten-free, making this a safe side dish for gluten-free diets.
Can I eat the corn without butter?
Absolutely, the steaming process enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
What are the main ingredients required?
The main ingredients are corn on the cob (with husks), damp paper towels, and optional butter and salt.
How many ingredients are used in this recipe?
There are a total of 4 ingredients listed for this preparation.
What equipment do I need for this recipe?
You will need a microwave, paper towels, and oven mitts or a towel.
Is this a good recipe for summer?
Yes, it is tagged as a summer recipe and provides a fresh taste of the season.
What is the primary benefit of steaming in husks?
It ensures the corn remains incredibly tender and moist compared to other methods.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The recipe data indicates that there is no added sugar, though corn contains natural sugars.