Ultimate Grilled Corn on the Cob
Crispy on the outside and sweet on the inside, this Ultimate Grilled Corn on the Cob recipe showcases the incredible flavors of fresh Midwest sweet corn. Forget the soaking – the secret to achieving that perfect roast is to cook the corn in its husks directly on the grill. This method caramelizes the natural sugars, intensifying the flavor while keeping the kernels juicy and tender. Ideal for summer barbecues or casual weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to become your go-to for enjoying sweet corn in a delightful, grilled manner. Serve it simply with butter and seasonings, or get creative with toppings - either way, it’s the taste of summer packed into every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh sweet corn
6-8 (in the husk)
butter
to taste (softened for easy spreading)
salt
to taste (for seasoning)
freshly ground black pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2
Place the ears of corn, still in their husks, directly onto the grill grates.
3
Close the lid and allow the corn to cook for about 20 minutes, turning the ears every 4-5 minutes to ensure even grilling.
4
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the corn from the grill using heat-resistant gloves, as they will be hot.
5
Let the corn cool slightly, then peel back the husks and remove any silk strands.
6
Serve the corn hot, generously slathered with butter, and sprinkle with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to grill corn on the cob?
The best way to grill corn is to cook it in its husks directly on the grill at medium heat to caramelize the sugars while keeping it juicy.
Do I need to soak the corn before grilling?
No, this recipe suggests skipping the soaking step to allow the natural sugars to caramelize more effectively.
How long does it take to grill corn in the husk?
It takes approximately 20 minutes to grill the corn in its husk on medium heat.
What grill temperature is recommended for corn?
The grill should be preheated to medium heat for the best results.
How often should I turn the corn on the grill?
You should turn the ears of corn every 4-5 minutes to ensure even grilling on all sides.
Should I remove the corn husks before cooking?
No, keep the husks on to protect the kernels and steam them in their own moisture.
How do I remove the silk after grilling?
Once the corn has cooled slightly, peel back the husks and the silk strands should come away easily.
Is this grilled corn recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses fresh sweet corn, butter, salt, and pepper.
What type of corn is best for grilling?
Fresh Midwest sweet corn is highly recommended for its flavor and sweetness.
How do I prevent the corn from burning?
Turning the corn frequently and keeping it inside the husk prevents the kernels from burning while they caramelize.
How do I handle the corn when it is hot?
Use heat-resistant gloves or tongs when removing the corn from the grill and handling it to peel the husks.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses butter, salt, and freshly ground black pepper for a classic taste.
Can I use a gas or charcoal grill?
This method works well on both gas and charcoal grills as long as a medium heat is maintained.
Should the grill lid be open or closed?
The grill lid should be closed to maintain the medium heat required for cooking the corn through.
How many ears of corn does this recipe serve?
The recipe is designed for 6 to 8 ears of fresh sweet corn.
Can I add other toppings to the grilled corn?
Yes, while the recipe suggests butter, salt, and pepper, you can get creative with other seasonings or toppings.
Is the grilled corn crispy?
The corn becomes slightly crispy on the outside due to caramelization while remaining sweet and juicy on the inside.
Why is this recipe called the Ultimate Grilled Corn?
It is considered ultimate because it intensifies the natural flavor through caramelization without the hassle of soaking or foil wrapping.
How do I prepare the butter for the corn?
The butter should be softened to make it easier to spread over the hot ears of corn.
Does the corn need to be cooled before eating?
It should be allowed to cool slightly for easier handling, but it is best served hot.
Is it okay if the husks turn black on the grill?
Yes, the outer husks will char, but they are protecting the kernels inside from direct flame damage.
What is the preparation required for the corn?
The only preparation needed is to ensure the corn is still in its husk before placing it on the grill.
Can I make this for a barbecue?
Yes, this is an ideal summer barbecue recipe that pairs well with other grilled foods.
Can I prep the corn ahead of time?
Since the corn stays in the husk, there is very little prep; just ensure you have your grill ready.
What makes the corn juicy in this recipe?
The husks act as a natural steamer, trapping moisture inside while the corn grills.
Is there any sugar added to the corn?
No, the recipe relies on the caramelization of the corn's natural sugars.
Can I use frozen corn for this method?
This specific method is designed for fresh sweet corn still in the husk.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, with only 4 ingredients and simple instructions, it is an easy recipe for any skill level.
How do I serve the grilled corn?
Serve it hot, peeled, and generously slathered with butter and seasonings.
Can I use sea salt instead of regular salt?
Yes, any type of salt can be used to season the corn to your preference.